FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 4, 2025

[Wilsonville, OR] – This month, the Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association (ORLA) will celebrate six outstanding leaders in Oregon’s hospitality and tourism industry with the prestigious Oregon Hospitality Awards. Honored for their dedication to creating unforgettable guest experiences, driving industry growth, and championing workforce development, these awardees embody the excellence and innovation that define Oregon hospitality.

• Employee of the Year: Dulce Mendez, Bentley’s Grill (Salem)
• Team Leader of the Year: Billie Jo Edmonds, Mo’s Seafood & Chowder (Coast)
• Restaurateur of the Year: Andy Fortgang, Le Pigeon / Canard / Flor Wines (Portland)
• Lodging Operator of the Year: Jennifer Bernal, Surfland Hotel (Lincoln City)
• Allied Member of Year: Oregon Destination Association
• Workforce Champion: Heather DeSart, Northwest Oregon Works

“The true heroes of our industry are the passionate people who elevate hospitality every day,” said Jason Brandt, President & CEO of the Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association. “These recipients embody the dedication and excellence that set the standard and inspire us all.”

Dulce Mendez has demonstrated exceptional dedication and professionalism, consistently earning the respect of her colleagues and the appreciation of guests. Her progression from hostess at Bentley's Grill to a key leader on the service team reflects her strong work ethic, adaptability, and commitment to excellence in hospitality.

Billie Jo Edmonds, Regional Manager of Mo's Seafood & Chowder, exemplifies outstanding hospitality leadership by guiding with calm, compassion, and integrity—earning the trust of her team, raising industry standards, and inspiring others to lead with the same commitment and heart.

Andy Fortgang, Co-Owner of Le Pigeon and Canard, has played a pivotal role in shaping Portland’s dining scene and earning national recognition for excellence. His leadership, award-winning beverage programs, and advocacy for independent restaurants highlight his lasting impact on Oregon’s hospitality industry.

As GM of Surfland Hotel, Jennifer Bernal has excelled in combining operational expertise with a commitment to team development and guest satisfaction elevating the property to a top TripAdvisor ranking. Her leadership extends beyond the hotel through active community involvement, making her a model of excellence in Oregon’s lodging industry.

The Oregon Destination Association is being recognized for its leadership in supporting and strengthening Oregon’s tourism and hospitality industry. Through statewide collaboration and strong advocacy, including efforts to oppose harmful lodging tax proposals, the organization has advanced shared goals for effective destination marketing and management.

As Executive Director at Northwest Oregon Works, Heather DeSart has been a driving force in advancing hospitality workforce development by bringing vision, resources, and advocacy to initiatives beyond traditional workforce approaches. Her leadership in building partnerships, securing funding, and championing hospitality as a priority sector has created lasting opportunities for industry training and growth.

Nominated by their peers, these statewide award recipients will be recognized in front of over 250 delegates at the ORLA Hospitality Conference, September 13-15, held at the Seaside Convention Center, in Seaside, Oregon.

For more information about the Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association, visit OregonRLA.org. 

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ABOUT ORLA

The Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association (ORLA) is the leading business association for the foodservice and lodging industry in Oregon. A not-for-profit trade organization, ORLA represents approximately 3,000 member units and advocates for over 11,300 foodservice locations and over 2,000 lodging establishments in Oregon.