The RI Hospitality Association (RIHA) and RI Hospitality Education Foundation (RIHEF) recently named Warren resident Matthew Weldon, director of the RI Department of Labor and Training, as the 2022 recipient of the “Rhode Island Hospitality Education Foundation’s Chairman’s Award” at the 32nd Annual Stars of the Industry Awards Ceremony at the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC).

Weldon has been the director of the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training since February of 2021. Prior to his appointment, he served in a senior leadership position within the department for ten years, as the agency's lead on policy, government relations and agency operations. He has been in state service for 22 years, and in that time has worked in each branch of state government.

“During the pandemic, Matthew and the entire team at the RI Department of Labor and Training worked daily with the Association to help provide unemployment benefit access to hospitality employees,” said Dale J. Venturini, President/CEO, RI Hospitality Association (RIHA)/RI Hospitality Education Foundation (RIHEF). “Matthew answers our calls and questions 24/7, always making himself accessible for Rhode Island’s hospitality workers. For being an incredible advocate of our industry, we’re proud to award him with this award.”

Weldon has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Rhode Island.

Chomp employee is a “Star of the Industry”
The RI Hospitality Association (RIHA) recently honored Niki Holden, an employee at Chomp Kitchen and Drinks in Warren, RI, as a “Star of the Industry” at the 32nd Annual Stars of the Industry Awards Ceremony at the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC).

The Stars of the Industry Awards recognize the outstanding achievements of members of the hospitality, foodservice, and tourism industries. Award recipients are nominated by their peers, managers or customers and were chosen not only for their dedication and contributions to their careers, but for their involvement in their local communities.

“We’re proud to recognize this year’s Stars of the Industry award-winners for their commitment to their craft and industry,” said Dale J. Venturini, President and CEO of RIHA. “With more than 80,000 Rhode Islanders working in the hospitality sector, each person plays an important role in our success and helps us to remain a cornerstone of the state’s economy.”