Lebanon, Pa – Hospitality leaders, professionals, and community partners from across the Lebanon Valley gathered on Thursday, December 11th for the annual Hospitality and Tourism Summit. This year’s event was held inside the newly renovated Alden Villa, originally designed by renowned architect Stanford White, providing a stunning and historic backdrop for a day of recognition, inspiration, and connection.
Guests enjoyed a farm-to-table breakfast catered by Timeless Café, paired with locally roasted coffee from Ancestor Coffeehouse & Creperie. As a heartfelt thank-you, attendees received handcrafted Raspberry Spritz cookies prepared by talented students from the Lebanon County Career and Technology Center (CTC).
The Summit featured a dynamic lineup of speakers to a 80+ person crowd who shared insights on current marketing efforts, statewide impact, and the future of tourism in the Lebanon Valley.
Jennifer Kuzo, President of Visit Lebanon Valley, opened the event with a review of the past year and an overview of emerging tourism trends. She highlighted the region’s growing momentum and the increasing interest in outdoor recreation, heritage tourism, and rural destinations.
Harvey Turner, owner of Alden Villa, shared the story behind his extensive restoration of the historic mansion. He described his desire to give the space back to the community to use for gatherings and celebrations. Afterwards, he took the attendees on a guided tour of the grounds.
The Summit also welcomed the Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Tourism Office, Kaitie Burger, who spoke about Visit Lebanon Valley’s meaningful impact on statewide tourism. She noted the region’s rising status as a destination and the vital role it plays in Pennsylvania’s tourism economy.
Rick Stammel, President of the Visit Lebanon Valley Board of Directors, addressed attendees with reflections on the organization’s work and its positive influence on local businesses. He emphasized collaboration, community pride, and the economic benefits that tourism brings to the Lebanon Valley.
The 2025 Hospitality Star Award Honorees were acknowledged during the Summit.
The Hospitality Star Awards honor front-line ambassadors who shape guest experiences and exemplify genuine Lebanon Valley hospitality. The program spotlights individuals who elevate their workplaces and strengthen the region’s welcoming spirit. Winners this year are as follows:
James Blair of Lebanon Valley Expo Center – Customer Service Supervisor, Tim Martin of Ancestor Coffeehouse & Creperie – Head Barista, Coffee Roaster & Mgr., Lauren Mettley of Rotunda Restaurant & Brewery – Bartender, Melody Reed of Panera Bread – Team Leader and, Channa Sythong of City Watch Coffee – Barista
Spotlight on Future Hospitality Leaders: The Lebanon County Career and Technology Center’s Culinary and Pastry Arts Programs were recognized for their outstanding contributions to hospitality education. Led by Chef Brian Peffley, the CTC continues to shape the next generation of culinary and hospitality professionals in the Lebanon Valley.
The program concluded with everyone sharing their names and businesses, or affiliations to tourism and hospitality. A positive event punctuated by the dedicated efforts of Visit Lebanon Valley and the collaborative work from our partners in Lebanon County.
About Visit Lebanon Valley
Visit Lebanon Valley is the official destination marketing organization for Lebanon County, Pa., dedicated to promoting tourism and celebrating the unique charm, history, and hospitality of the region. Learn more at www.visitlebanonvalley.com.