OHLA
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OHLA Stars of the Industry


It is your team's time to SHINE!

It is your team's time to SHINE!

Nominations for the OHLA Stars of the Industry are now open—your chance to recognize the individuals and teams who truly elevate hospitality across Ohio.

From outstanding service professionals to innovative leaders, these awards celebrate the passion, dedication, and excellence that define our industry. Don’t miss the opportunity to spotlight those who go above and beyond every day—submit a nomination and help honor the stars who make a lasting impact.

OHLA Events and Happenings


Regional Lodging Council Meetings Coming in Q2 & Q3!

Regional Lodging Council Meetings Coming in Q2 & Q3!

If you’re not plugged into what’s happening locally and statewide, you’re missing critical insights that can directly impact your bottom line. That’s why the OHLA Regional Lodging Councils are a must-attend for hoteliers and allied partners who want to lead—not follow.

Click Read More to see when we are coming to your city!

NEXT: Greater Dayton Lodging Council
June 11, 2026
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Day Air Ballpark - Diamond Event Center



Looking for a little team building for your associates?

Looking for a little team building for your associates?

The 7th Annual OHLA Charity Volleyball Tournament is set for May 30, 2026! Join us at Woodland's Backyard for a fun-filled day of friendly competition, team spirit, and giving back. Grab your team (or sign up solo!) and get ready for sand, sun, and a great cause.

May 30, 2026
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Woodland's Backyard Grandview

Innovation & Technology


Where Tech Meets Service - Learn more about OHLA Innovation & Technology

Where Tech Meets Service - Learn more about OHLA Innovation & Technology

Upcoming Webinar: The PMS is history
May 21, 2026
10:00 AM



The traditional Property Management System (PMS) was built for a world where hotels simply needed to digitize the front desk. That world no longer exists. Today, from independent boutiques to major franchise brands, hoteliers must manage distribution across dozens of channels, compete for direct bookings, and optimize revenue in real-time. With industry giants like Marriott replatforming their entire systems and other major brands following suit, it’s clear the category hasn't just evolved - the industry has outgrown it. Join us as we discuss what comes next for hotel technology and how operators can navigate this shift.


Government Affairs Update


Key Legislation & Industry Insights

Key Legislation & Industry Insights

Highlights from recent legislative activity include new IRS regulations clarifying which hospitality roles qualify for federal “No Tax on Tips” deductions, alongside continued state-level efforts to expand tax relief for tipped workers.

Updates also cover ongoing advocacy to address rising hotel-related crime through proposed legislation targeting repeat juvenile offenders and theft tools, as well as key takeaways from Ohio’s primary election shaping the upcoming general election.

See more details in the full report.

Membership News


OHLA Membership Renewal Season is Here!

OHLA Membership Renewal Season is Here!

Renewal notices for both our property and allied members have officially been mailed out. Continuing your membership ensures uninterrupted access to the advocacy, connections, and resources that support your business and strengthen Ohio’s hospitality industry.

Sponsorship Guide


2026 Sponsorship & Advertising Guide

2026 Sponsorship & Advertising Guide

The 2026 OHLA Sponsorship Guide is here! Showcase your brand, connect with key decision-makers, and position your company as a leader in our state’s hospitality industry. Sponsorships are selling quickly, so don’t miss your chance to secure your preferred events and opportunities. Reach out today to reserve your spot and be part of a standout year ahead.

Emerging Professionals Corner


Third Thursday Volunteering

Third Thursday Volunteering

Join OHLA Emerging Professionals for a meaningful (and genuinely fun) volunteer experience at Star House in Columbus! During your two-hour shift, you’ll play a hands-on role in supporting youth in need by helping us organize and track generous community donations. Bring your energy—we keep the vibes high while getting real work done. You’ll sort through clothing, hygiene items, and household goods, grouping them where they’re needed most, and help count inventory to keep everything running smoothly. It’s simple, impactful work that directly supports an incredible mission—and a great way to connect with fellow professionals while giving back.

May 21, 2026
3:00PM - 5:00PM
Star House Drop In Center

Allied Member Updates


Cogwheel Marketing Insights

Cogwheel Marketing Insights

What Cogwheel’s Saying: Smart Takes Worth Reading

The only thing more valuable than having someone’s attention is getting them to do something with it, and TikTok has mastered both. 170 million Americans and over 7.5 million U.S. businesses used TikTok in 2025. The wild success of TikTokShop has proven that TikTok has the ability to lead its users through a traditional marketing funnel, without ever leaving the app. From inspiration to research, and all the way through to conversion, in a matter of minutes.

Their users bought the suitcase that went viral, now what? 66% of users say TikTok is their most helpful source of travel inspiration, and TikTok reports that their users are 2.6 times more likely to book an experience after searching for it on their app. TikTok wants to cash in, and it is partnering with OTAs to quickly capitalize on this.


Sedgwick Monthly News

Sedgwick Monthly News

May's Workers' Compensation & Safety Updates

This month, Sedgwick focuses on key risk management considerations for employers, including what to know when buying or selling a business and essential ladder safety practices to prevent workplace injuries. The latest articles outline important Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation requirements tied to business ownership changes, along with practical guidance on proper ladder selection, inspection, and safe use. Together, these insights help employers stay compliant, reduce risk, and promote a safer work environment.


INSPIRE

INSPIRE

INSPIRE, which supports more than 155 properties nationwide, operates with a consultative approach designed to align AV services with each property's operational goals. With regional support and on-site teams, INSPIRE helps venues manage everything from daily meetings to large conferences with greater consistency.


Conscious Check-In

Conscious Check-In

The next sustainability opportunity for Ohio hotels probably will not start with a guest asking for it at the front desk. It may show up in an RFP, a corporate travel policy, a brand standard, or the expectations of international travelers who are already used to seeing sustainability treated as part of hospitality.



Celebrating Our Associates

Celebrating Our Associates

2025 was a year that proved what steady leadership and teamwork can accomplish. Across HotelPro's markets, associates strengthened client relationships, improved performance, and supported one another with consistency and accountability. As they move into 2026, they are proud to recognize those who helped set that standard.



Keep Ohio Beautiful

Keep Ohio Beautiful

Ohio’s hospitality industry has made strong strides with recycling, but today’s guest expectations call for a more comprehensive, zero-waste approach that prioritizes reducing waste first, followed by composting and then recycling. By tackling high-impact areas like food waste, especially in full-service hotels, properties can significantly cut hauling costs while strengthening their sustainability story.

What's Up with WIL?


Registration Opening Soon! - Annual Luncheon

Registration Opening Soon! - Annual Luncheon

Beyond the Horizon: Women Breaking Barriers

In partnership with the Women in Lodging CONNECT community, this annual luncheon brings together industry leaders and rising professionals for an afternoon of inspiration, connection, and meaningful conversation. Expect powerful insights, bold discussions, and tools to help you lead with confidence and purpose.

🗓 June 18, 2026
⏰ 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 Embassy Suites Columbus Dublin




We Want to See You in Q2!

We Want to See You in Q2!

Our Women in Lodging (WIL) CONNECT Advisory Council has been hard at work putting together some great events & programming for 2026.

UPCOMING - DAYTON

Mission Delicious; Elevate Your Expectations

Join us for an evening of salad composition where we will break the barriers of savory and sweets. This engaging event offers hands-on culinary insights, networking opportunities, and a celebration of innovation and leadership in hospitality. Don't miss out - register today!

May 20, 2026
5:00PM - 6:30PM
Courtyard Beavercreek

Education & Workforce Development Updates


2nd Annual OHLEF Charity Golf Classic

2nd Annual OHLEF Charity Golf Classic

Join us for the inaugural OHLEF Golf Classic on July 23, 2026, at Golf Club of Dublin! This exciting new event supports the Ohio Hotel & Lodging Educational Foundation’s mission to invest in the future of hospitality, funding training programs, career development, and education initiatives across Ohio. Gather your team or register individually for a great day on the course, complete with a shotgun start, on-course contests, and an awards dinner to wrap it all up.

July 23, 2026
8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
The Golf Club of Dublin


Upcoming Events

May 7, 2026
10:00AM - 12:00PM

Greater Cincinnati Lodging Council Meeting

Great Wolf Lodge Cincinnati Mason

2501 Great Wolf Dr, Mason, OH 45040

May 19, 2026
8:30AM - 10:00AM

HSMAI Ohio Event - AI Readiness with Lighthouse

Aloft Columbus University District

1295 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH 43212

May 20, 2026
5:00PM - 6:30PM

Mission Delicious; Elevate Your Expectations - A WIL Food Workshop

Courtyard by Marriott Beavercreek

2777 Fairfield Cmns, Beavercreek, OH 45431