NRAEF Seeks Nominations for 2012 Michael E. Hurst Lifetime Achievement in Education Award by August 31
The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation is encouraging restaurant-industry professionals to identify and nominate outstanding candidates for its 2012 awards: the College of Diplomats, the Michael E. Hurst Lifetime Achievement in Education Award and the Thad and Alice Eure Ambassador of Hospitality Award.
Submissions can be made online, mailed or faxed to (312) 566-9733. The nomination deadline is Aug. 31.
“We are looking to all leaders in the hospitality business to nominate their shining stars—the valued individuals who go the extra mile both personally and professionally to serve and bring public focus to restaurants and foodservice through their works,” says Lynette McKee, executive director, NRAEF.
“This is a tremendous opportunity not only for companies to recognize their own leaders and industry partners, but also to bolster relationships between operators and suppliers and their clients," she added.
The NRAEF awards program dates back more than 25 years and recognizes the top philanthropists, community leaders and educators in the restaurant and foodservice industry. Nominees should embody the NRAEF mission of strengthening and growing the industry through education, community engagement and promotion of career opportunities.
Specific requirements for each award include:
• The College of Diplomats is a select group of industry professionals who exemplify the philanthropic spirit of the industry in support of the NRAEF’s mission. Up to three people can be inducted each year. Past Diplomats include: Alice Elliot, Jackie Trujillo, Norman Brinker, James Maynard and Emeril Lagasse.
• The Michael E. Hurst Lifetime Achievement in Education Award honors the commitment to educating and enhancing lives of young people that Michael E. Hurst characterized. It is presented to an eligible current or retired post-secondary and/or graduate professor or administrator who has dedicated his/her career to academic instruction in hospitality, culinary or foodservice management. Past recipients include Ferdinand Metz, CMC, Ray Kavanaugh and Morris J.W. Gaebe.
• The Thad and Alice Eure Ambassador of Hospitality Award is the NRAEF’s highest distinction. It is presented to someone who has shown extraordinary achievement and exemplary leadership in bringing public focus to the hospitality industry through philanthropy and community service. Past recipients include Ralph Brennan, Bill Marriott, S. Truett Cathy and Joe Lee.
The 2012 awards will be presented at NRAEF events during the 2012 National Restaurant Association Restaurant Hotel-Motel Show.