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Chelsea Leingang – Seattle Art Museum

Chelsea Leingang is the Director of Tourism & Visitor Growth at the Seattle Art Museum, where she leads the tourism strategy across SAM’s three locations and builds partnerships across the hospitality, travel, and attractions community. She has spent more than a decade working in the tourism industry, beginning her career at Pacific Science Center. Beyond her work at SAM, she serves as Chair of the Puget Sound Attractions Council and Vice Chair of Pacific Science Center’s Associate Board. Chelsea is driven by helping visitors feel welcomed, inspired, and connected to Seattle’s arts, culture, and community.

Janelle Doig – Museum of Pop Culture (MOPOP)

Janelle Doig is Director of Corporate Engagement and Venue Experiences at MOPOP, where she has spent 21 years helping clients bring bold events to life in one of Seattle’s most distinctive cultural venues. With roots in hospitality and event production, she leads corporate engagement, venue experiences, and creative collaborations for gatherings ranging from intimate meetings to major block parties. As the longtime chair of the Unique Venue Group, she has fostered a collaborative network that generates meaningful partnerships across the region. Through her work, Janelle displays her passion for showcasing Seattle’s creativity, culture, and community spirit.

Rosie Courtney – Port of Seattle

Bio forthcoming.

Ilona Lohrey – GSBA

Ilona Lohrey is President & CEO of GSBA, Washington State’s LGBTQ+ and allied business association and the largest LGBTQ+ and allied chamber in North America. Over 11 years with GSBA, she has expanded the organization’s impact, championing economic and educational equity for historically marginalized communities while overseeing the GSBA Scholarship & Education Fund, which has invested more than $7.5 million in future leaders. Her career spans entrepreneurship and nonprofit leadership, all grounded in a deep commitment to small business owners and community-building. Recognized by the Puget Sound Business Journal, Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, and the Biden administration, Ilona was also proud to represent Seattle’s inclusive spirit through her service on SeattleFWC26’s human rights committee for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Kristi Brown – Communion & That Brown Girl Cooks

Kristi Brown is the Executive Chef, Owner, and Founder of Communion R&B and That Brown Girl Cooks!, where she has become one of Seattle’s most prominent public faces. Recognized by numerous national and regional publications for their contributions to Seattle’s culinary and cultural scene, Kristi continues to blend identity, community, and tradition in their cuisine – harmonizing in a way that allows Seattle’s richly diverse communities to have a seat at the table. Additionally, Kristi leads culinary mentorship programs, advocacy campaigns, and fosters collaborative experiences throughout the city

Traci Calderon – Atrium Kitchen

Traci Calderon is the owner and chef of Atrium Kitchen at Pike Place Market, where she creates hands-on culinary experiences that connect visitors and locals to Seattle’s historic market. Over nearly two decades in food and hospitality, she has built businesses rooted in service, storytelling, and community care. Through Nourished Neighborhood, Traci and volunteers have served more than 200,000 free meals since 2017, reflecting her commitment to nourishment, kindness, and creating connection through food.

Chris Pink – Can Can Culinary Cabaret

Chris Pink is the Founder and Artistic Director of Can Can, an award-winning Seattle arts and entertainment destination known for original live performances and immersive experiences. Across more than two decades, he has produced thousands of shows, restored and activated venues, and built creative brands that connect audiences with place, performance, and community. Chris is driven by the transformative power of the arts and by creating shared experiences that help visitors and locals connect more deeply with Seattle’s creative spirit.

Jane Cho – Eighth Generation

Jane Cho is CEO of Eighth Generation, a Snoqualmie Tribe-owned lifestyle brand based in Seattle dedicated to elevating authentic Native art and Indigenous artists. Drawing on a career with iconic retail brands including Ralph Lauren, Bloomingdale’s, and Saks Fifth Avenue, Jane brings deep expertise in product, brand-building, and customer connection to Eighth Generation’s mission. She leads a majority-Native team focused on showcasing Native-designed products, educating customers, and expanding opportunities for artists through meaningful partnerships and industry-leading royalties. Jane is proud to help share authentic Native artwork from Seattle and beyond with customers around the world while honoring the communities and stories behind each design.

Mimi Gan – Seattle Children’s Theatre

Mimi Gan is Co-Founder of Mi2 Media and Our Stories Are Your Stories with more than 30 years of experience as a journalist, filmmaker, and cultural storyteller. A longtime trustee of the Wing Luke Museum and Seattle Children’s Theatre, she creates programs and campaigns that uplift underrepresented histories, strengthen belonging, and combat anti-Asian hate. Her award-winning work spans documentaries, civic storytelling, and arts partnerships, all rooted in the belief that culture and hospitality help people feel seen, welcomed, and at home.

Katie Gallo – Inn at the Market

Katie Gallo is the Front Desk Agent at Inn at The Market, one of Seattle’s most iconic hotels, where she has been serving the city for the last 26 years. Being the first face that guests see when entering the hotel, Katie harmonizes local pride with industry know-how. Having witnessed the growth and change of Seattle in the last two decades, her commitment is unwavering. Her passion for guiding visitors through the city is personified in her intentionality in building a lasting impact on each guest. Whether it’s casual travel or intentional sightseeing, Katie’s reputation stands as one of the industry’s most respected front desk agents.

Marty Wentzel – Evergreen Escapes

Martin “Marty” Wentzel is a 20-year veteran of the tourism and hospitality industry, currently working as a Naturalist Guide for Evergreen Escapes. At the core of his work is his passion for educating guests on Washington’s landscape, geology, wildlife, and Indigenous history. Martin’s admiration for the diversity of culture and climates throughout King County and beyond fuels his desire to share the region’s incredible natural spaces with visitors. By blending passion, environmental advocacy, and kindness into all aspects of his work, Martin crafts unforgettable experiences for visitors.

Sayaka Hishinuma – Fairmont Olympic Seattle

Sayaka Hishinuma is the Chef Concierge at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel, where she has proudly dedicated more than 29 years to creating meaningful and memorable experiences for guests visiting Seattle. A member of Les Clefs d’Or since 2002 and Chef Concierge since 2011, Sayaka is passionate about the art of hospitality, mentoring fellow concierges, and building lasting relationships throughout the Seattle community. As President of the Seattle Hotel Concierge Association since 2018, she is honored to support and elevate the concierge profession while sharing the culture, diversity, and natural beauty that make Seattle such a special place. She has received numerous recognitions, including Employee of the Year at the AAA Five Diamond Fairmont Olympic Hotel.

Ema Lucio – The State Hotel

Bio forthcoming.

Jose Martinez – Service Solutions

Jose Martinez is General Manager of Service Solutions Audio Visual, where he leads day-to-day operations, AV production, installation, and integration services across Seattle and King and Snohomish Counties. With several decades of experience in the audio-visual and hospitality industry, Jose leads much like the football coach he once was  building strong teams, mentoring with patience, and bringing out the best in everyone around him. He builds strong relationships with clients, venue partners, and his team, ensuring every event is supported with clear communication and exceptional service. Jose takes pride in SSAV’s behind-the-scenes work, knowing it helps create memorable experiences and strengthens the region’s reputation as a world-class destination for meetings and events.

Tuan Nguyen – Residence Inn by Marriott South Lake Union

Tuan Nguyen is the current Chief of Maintenance at the Residence Inn, where he has been overseeing all engineering and maintenance within the 234-room property for over 30 years. Throughout his decades of professional experience, Tuan has built a reputation of reliability, efficiency, and mentorship, receiving numerous awards from the industry’s most respected companies. His admiration for the city manifests in the work he does every day, recognizing Seattle’s dedication to culture, diversity, and opportunity.

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Ovation Awards 2026 Voting Form

Vote for one nominee per category. Only one form entry per person, please.

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