Former Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association CEO Receives ‘Hall of Fame’ Award

Trisha Pugal, CAE, recognized by peers at the Wisconsin Society of Association Executives event

Madison, WI – November 20, 2024 – The Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association (WHLA) proudly announces that its retired President and CEO, Trisha Pugal, CAE, was inducted into the prestigious Wisconsin Society of Association Executives (WSAE) Hall of Fame on November 19, 2024. The award was presented during the WSAE Summit at The Edgewater in Madison.

Trisha Pugal's remarkable career spans over four decades in the hospitality and association management industries. Her tenure at WHLA lasted 25 years, during which she transformed the organization into a leading voice for lodging properties across Wisconsin. Under her leadership, WHLA became instrumental in advocating for legislative issues critical to the hospitality sector.

"Trisha’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the hospitality industry have set a standard of excellence," said Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association’s current President & CEO, Bill Elliott, CAE. "Her dedication to mentoring future leaders and her significant contributions to association management make her deserving of this honor."

Pugal's journey began at the Bowling Proprietors Association of Wisconsin and included pivotal roles such as Executive Director of the Wisconsin Parks and Recreation Association. She later returned to WHLA as Interim CEO during a critical period at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating her resilience and commitment to the industry.

In addition to her role at WHLA, Trisha has served as President of the Tourism Federation of Wisconsin and Chair of the International Society of Hotel Association Executives. Her accolades include the Governor’s Tourism Legacy Award in 2019 and being part of the inaugural class inducted into the Wisconsin Lodging Hall of Fame in 2021.

​The WSAE Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have shown exceptional dedication and involvement in association management. Pugal's induction highlights her legacy of advocacy, innovation, and community engagement within the hospitality sector.

As she embarks on this new chapter in her career, Trisha continues to share her expertise through Pugal Consulting Services and Back 9 Consultants, assisting hospitality associations in navigating ongoing challenges.

For more information about Trisha Pugal’s achievements or to learn more about WHLA, please contact Bill Elliott, CAE at (262) 782-2851 or [email protected]. 

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