Celebrating Excellence: WHLA Honors 2025 Award Recipients at Chula Vista Resort

On Monday, November 3, the Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association (WHLA) proudly celebrated excellence in Wisconsin’s lodging industry during the 2025 WHLA Awards Dinner, held at the beautiful Chula Vista Resort in Wisconsin Dells.

​The evening brought together industry professionals from across the state to recognize outstanding leaders and properties that exemplify innovation, leadership, and dedication to lodging excellence. Congratulations to this year’s honorees — each of whom continues to elevate Wisconsin’s hotel and lodging community!

​Innkeeper of the Year: Aaron Wolf, Comfort Suites Green Bay

The Innkeeper of the Year Award is WHLA’s highest honor, celebrating exceptional leadership, dedication, and influence in Wisconsin’s hotel and lodging industry.

This year’s recipient, Aaron Wolf, General Manager of the Comfort Suites Green Bay, embodies those qualities and more. A long-time WHLA leader and advocate, Aaron has served in numerous roles within the association, including as a member of the WHLA Board of Directors, Executive Committee, and Board Chair in 2019.

Beyond his professional achievements, Aaron is a dedicated hotelier, mentor, and community leader. He actively supports workforce development and student programs, generously donates to WHLA’s annual auction, and is a familiar face at association events.
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Known for his warmth, generosity, and hands-on leadership, Aaron’s influence extends far beyond his property. His impact can be felt through his employees, guests, and community — and through his roles as a father, friend, son, and coach, he continues to exemplify the heart of Wisconsin lodging.

Associate of the Year: Dawn Langellier, Standard Textile

The Associate of the Year Award recognizes an individual who demonstrates exceptional service and dedication to Wisconsin’s hotel and lodging community.

This year’s honoree, Dawn Langellier of Standard Textile, has been a steadfast supporter of WHLA and a trusted partner to countless hoteliers across the state. Known for her outstanding customer service and creative solutions, Dawn consistently goes above and beyond to help properties look and perform their best.
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Dawn regularly exhibits at the Wisconsin Lodging Conference Trade Show and has carried on the legacy of longtime member Jenny Craig with grace, professionalism, and genuine care for the industry. Though she was unable to attend this year’s conference, WHLA looks forward to celebrating her in person at a future Innsights event in 2026.

Development Excellence Award (1–199 Rooms): The Waters of Minocqua

Established in 2023, the Development Excellence Awards recognize newly built or recently renovated lodging properties in Wisconsin.
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In the 1–199 Rooms category, The Waters of Minocqua earned top honors for their stunning property-wide renovation. General Manager Tamra Anderson and her team accepted the award on stage, celebrating the complete transformation of guest rooms, restaurant, and event spaces — a perfect balance of rustic Northwoods charm and modern comfort.

Development Excellence Award (200+ Rooms): Grand Geneva Resort & Spa

In the 200+ Rooms category, the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, a Marcus Hotels & Resorts property, was recognized for its impressive renovations — including refreshed guest rooms, upgraded meeting and banquet spaces, and enhancements at Timber Ridge Waterpark.

Eric Grimm and members of the Grand Geneva team proudly accepted the award, representing a project that reinforces the resort’s position as one of Wisconsin’s most iconic destinations.
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WHLA also recognized Tri-North Builders for their vital role in the project. This collaboration between long-time WHLA members exemplifies the vision, craftsmanship, and teamwork that drive Wisconsin’s lodging excellence.

A Night to Remember

From heartfelt speeches to well-deserved standing ovations, the 2025 WHLA Awards Dinner was a true celebration of Wisconsin lodging. Each award recipient represents the best of our state’s hospitality spirit — leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence.
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Congratulations once again to Aaron Wolf, Dawn Langellier, The Waters of Minocqua, and Grand Geneva Resort & Spa on their outstanding achievements!