Nominations Open for the ISHC Lori Raleigh Award for Emerging Excellence in Hospitality Consulting

The International Society of Hospitality Consultants (ISHC) announced that nominations are being accepted for the Lori Raleigh Award for Emerging Excellence in Hospitality Consulting. Launched in 2015 in honor of Lori Raleigh, founder of the Travers Group and executive director of ISHC 2000-2013, the award honors young, successful industry professionals with leadership qualities and a perceived bright future in hospitality consulting.

Candidates for The Lori Raleigh Award must be 35 years of age or younger at the time of the award presentation and meet the criteria for ISHC’s Associate Membership. They also must be recognized by their company leaders or other industry constituents who are familiar with their work as an exceptional example of a future leader within the field. At the time of nomination, a candidate must be either a self-practitioner or working for a company that provides third-party consulting services to the hospitality industry and be actively involved or responsible for providing advisory services to clients of the firm (e.g., hospitality consulting firms, third-party hospitality asset managers, architects, designers, food and beverage consultants, hospitality lawyers, purchasing companies, etc.). Prior award winners are not eligible for nomination, while prior nominees who have not previously won remain eligible. The winner must be available to attend the ISHC Annual Conference for the award presentation in Rome, Italy, 24-26 September 2026, and will receive a $1500 travel allowance.

Nominations are due by July 14, 2026.  Winners will receive a one-year Associate Membership to ISHC, including access to all meetings and networking functions, as well as complimentary registration and travel allowance to attend the 2026 annual conference to receive the award.

“The future of the hospitality consulting industry depends on identifying and encouraging emerging talent,” said Andrea Belfanti, CEO of International Society of Hospitality Consultants. “Through the Lori Raleigh Award, ISHC is proud to support aspiring consultants by providing opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and meaningful industry connections through Associate Membership. By investing in new voices and ideas, we help strengthen and advance the industry for years to come.”

For more information on award, please visit the Lori Raleigh Award webpage or access the nomination form here.