The South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority honored Northwest Indiana’s hospitality heroes on Wednesday, September 23, during its 20th annual awards ceremony at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana.
The R.O.S.E. (Recognition of Service Excellence) Awards celebrate exceptional front-line employees, while the R.I.S.E. (Recognition of Industry Success & Excellence) Awards recognize managerial staff or past R.O.S.E. recipients. This year, the SSCVA received more than 80 nominations.
Nominees are individuals who consistently go above and beyond, leaving lasting impressions on their guests. From those nominations, 40 finalists were selected and treated to an afternoon of fun and relaxation at either Public Bar and Rec in Crown Point or Bloom Boutique Salon in Schererville, with luxury transportation provided by Epic Limo of Valparaiso.
During the evening, finalists gathered with their family and friends at Hard Rock for the awards dinner, where 15 winners were announced. Each honoree received a glass-encased rose and a prize package valued at nearly $1,400.
“Hospitality is one of the things that makes the South Shore such a welcoming destination,” said Phil Taillon, SSCVA President/CEO. “These finalists and winners represent the very best of our region, creating memorable experiences through their dedication, professionalism and genuine care for others. We are honored to celebrate their achievements and thank them for the important role they play in our visitor economy and community.”
2026 R.O.S.E. Winners
Lewisa Bonner Ramada by Wyndham Hammond Hotel & Conference Center
Tracy Gormley Horseshoe Casino, Hammond
Elizabeth Gutierrez Lake County Parks/Gibson Woods Nature Preserve, Hammond
Jordan Hannon SouthShore Drift Co., Chesterton
Wayne Johnson Horseshoe Casino, Hammond
Jimmie King Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, Gary
Kelly Morris The Wanderluxe Collection, Michigan City
Joe Smit Fair Oaks Farms, Fair Oaks
Tijana Vojinovic Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, Gary
2026 R.I.S.E. Winners
Brandi Jones SouthShore Drift Co., Chesterton
Lucas Newell Schoop’s Hamburgers, Highland
Marsha Plesac Centier Bank, Hobart
Liz Pritchard Luna Beauty Studio, Dyer
Jovany Santacruz SpringHill Suites, Munster
Julie Stutler Rosati’s, St. John
If you know someone who deserves a R.O.S.E. or R.I.S.E. award, submit your nominations for 2027 at www.rose-awards.com.
Check out pictures from the event HERE, thanks to GreatNews.Life.