From Accomplishments to Celebrations: Recap of the 2024 GMHLA Annual Meeting and Holiday Party!

​The Greater Milwaukee Hotel & Lodging Association (GMHLA) celebrated a successful year at their Annual Meeting and Holiday Party on December 9th at the Kimpton Journeyman Hotel. The event commenced with the Annual Meeting at 4 pm, led by Board President Brandon Drusch. 

In his President's Report, Drusch acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the Board of Directors throughout 2024, emphasizing their leadership, active participation in meetings, and unwavering support for events. He thanked outgoing board members for their dedicated service and recognized their efforts in steering the association toward its goals.

Drusch highlighted the essential support from sponsors, which has been crucial in advancing the association's initiatives. Exciting news was shared about the 2024 GMHLA Scholarship Program, which will award the largest amount ever to five deserving students across two categories. This commitment underscores GMHLA's dedication to fostering talent in the hospitality industry.

​Secretary/Treasurer Kerri Huelsbeck provided a financial report, ensuring transparency in the association's operations. Board Vice President Larry Robe presented the Slate of Board Candidates, on behalf of the Nominations Committee, which was unanimously approved. The new board lineup promises a dynamic mix of hotel leaders and hospitality professionals ready to steer GMHLA into an exciting 2025.

Before closing the meeting, Drusch paid tribute to past president Adam Dziadosz for his exceptional service during his tenure in 2022 and 2023. Dziados addressed the members, likely sharing insights and inspiration for the future.

Following the meeting, attendees enjoyed a lively holiday party at Tre Rivali, where they savored delicious food and drinks while participating in scratch-off ticket games for holiday gifts.

About GMHLA

The Greater Milwaukee Hotel & Lodging Association (GMHLA) is a non-profit trade association that represents the interests of hotels and lodging properties in the Milwaukee area, along with the associate members who provide important services to our lodging members and their guests. GMHLA's mission is to promote the growth of the Greater Milwaukee hospitality sector through education and advocacy. By focusing on professional development and community involvement, GMHLA offers a valuable platform for individuals looking to engage with the hotel industry in Milwaukee. Learn more and join!

2025 GMHLA Board of Directors

Officers

• PRESIDENT: Brandon Drusch, The Pfister Hotel 12/31/2025 
• VICE PRESIDENT: Larry Robe, Knickerbocker on the Lake 12/31/2025
• PAST PRESIDENT: Adam Dziadosz, First Hospitality 12/31/2025 
• SECRETARY-TREASURER: Kerri Huelsbeck, Delta Hotels Milwaukee Northwest  12/31/2025

Lodging Directors

• Carl Allen, Hilton Garden Inn Brookfield Conference Center 
• Tony Beer, DoubleTree by Hilton Milwaukee Downtown
• Jeff Calimlim, Hampton Inn & Suites Franklin
• Jen Jansek, Courtyard Milwaukee Downtown
• Dana Johnson, Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel 
• Jon Jossart, Ambassador Hotel 
• Angela Monfre, Holiday Inn Milwaukee Riverfront
• Chris Palid, Drury Plaza Hotel Milwaukee 
• Benjamin Risseeuw, White Lodging 
• Jeff Stewart, Hilton Milwaukee City Center (12/31/2024) 
• Jerry Evens, Embassy Suites Brookfield 
• Clint Wills, Wisco Hotel Group 

Associate Directors

• Shari Engstrom, Sid Grinker Restoration 
• Taylor Ryterski, Balanced Environments 
• Carmen Smalley, Milwaukee Area Technical College 
• Angie Todd, Waukesha County Technical College 

Ex-Officios

• Marty Brooks, Wisconsin Center District
• Bill Elliott, Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association
• Leif Otteson, Gateway to Milwaukee
• Dan Pena, United Ethnic Festivals, Inc. 
• Beth Weirick, Milwaukee Downtown BID #21 
• Peggy Williams-Smith, Visit Milwaukee

Executive Director

• Monica Goeke, CAE

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