BOCA RATON, FL – October 27, 2026 – The Boca Regional Chamber celebrated the extraordinary individuals who make South Palm Beach County's hospitality industry shine at its 4th Annual Platinum Service Awards Luncheon, held Wednesday, October 21, at Boca West Country Club.

More than 300 business and community leaders, hospitality executives, and industry professionals gathered to recognize 80 nominees representing hotels, resorts, and country clubs throughout Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and Boynton Beach.

Created by The Chamber's Tourism Committee, the Platinum Service Awards honor the often-unsung heroes of the hospitality industry—the hourly employees whose dedication, professionalism, and exceptional service create memorable experiences for guests, members, and visitors every day.

Kevin Fisher Named Overall Platinum Service Award Winner

The afternoon's highest honor was presented to Kevin Fisher, a server at Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club, who was named the 2026 Overall Platinum Service Award Winner.

Fisher was first recognized as the winner in the Country Club Front of House (Food and Beverage) category before receiving the event's top distinction. In addition to the recognition, Fisher received a $1,000 cash prize, made possible through the generosity of the event's sponsors.

"These awards celebrate the people who are truly the heart of our hospitality industry," said Sarah Pearson, Executive Vice President of the Boca Regional Chamber. "Their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to excellence are what make our region such an exceptional destination. We are proud to recognize Kevin and every nominee who goes above and beyond to make a difference each day."

Celebrating Excellence Across the Hospitality Industry

The awards recognized outstanding employees in a variety of hotel and country club categories, including guest and member services, culinary, housekeeping, food and beverage, engineering and maintenance, fitness, recreation, and safety and security.

Each nominee was celebrated with a sparkling wine toast, a delicious luncheon, a Certificate of Excellence, and an official Platinum Service Awards nominee pin. Each was

also publicly recognized for their outstanding contributions, reinforcing the event’s mission of honoring the hardworking individuals whose dedication and exceptional service often take place behind the scenes.

The Chamber recognized the following 14 category winners for their outstanding contributions to hospitality excellence:

Hotel – Housekeeping
Winner: Erncia Jean
Property: Hyatt Place Delray Beach

Hotel – Guest Services
Winner: George Johnson
Property: Waterstone Resort & Marina

Hotel – Engineering/Maintenance
Winner: Gerson Palacios
Property: Hyatt Place Boca Raton

Hotel – Front of House (Food & Beverage)
Winner: Neil McKenzie
Property: Boca Raton Marriott at Boca Center

Hotel – Heart of the House
Winner: Maria Keuning
Property: Hyatt Place Boca Raton

Country Club – Culinary
Winner: Guerno Dorsonne
Property: Hunters Run Country Club

Country Club – Engineering/Maintenance
Winner: Amos Baptiste
Property: St. Andrews Country Club

Country Club – Fitness/Spa
Winner: Leo Normil
Property: Broken Sound Club

Country Club – Front of House (Food & Beverage)
Winner: Kevin Fisher
Property: Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club

Country Club – Heart of the House
Winner: Nerlien Francoeur
Property: St. Andrews Country Club

Country Club – Housekeeping
Winner: Hubertha Jean Baptiste
Property: St. Andrews Country Club

Country Club – Safety and Security
Winner: Frank Wannop
Property: Boca West Country Club

Country Club – Member Service
Winner: Allyson Sullivan
Property: Mizner Country Club

Country Club – Recreation (Golf/Racquet Sports)
Winner: Karine Quentrec
Property: The Polo Club of Boca Raton

The event was led by Co-Chairman Matt Linderman, President and COO of Boca West Country Club, whose leadership and commitment helped secure additional sponsorship support and elevate this year's celebration. Co-Chairman George Petrocelli of The Boca Raton also provided amazing leadership and support.

Ashley Glass of WPTV served as Mistress of Ceremonies, bringing warmth, enthusiasm, and energy to the celebration.

Presenting Sponsor Sysco, represented by Charles Maggio, played a significant role in the event's success. Maggio delivered heartfelt remarks emphasizing the importance of recognizing the hardworking professionals who are the foundation of the hospitality industry.

Additional sponsors include:

Fry/Straka Global Golf Course Design, Boca West Country Club, Halperns', Lynn University, The Boca Raton, and Fifth Third Bank, Cheney, Discover The Palm Beaches, Cotleur & Hearing, Dignitary Transportation powered by Larry's Private Car, Kolter Hospitality, Elite Services Professionals of Palm Beach, Argyle, Winebow, Florida Cleaning Systems, Zwiesel Fortessa and The Opal Collection

About the Boca Regional Chamber

The Boca Regional Chamber is committed to promoting and sustaining economic prosperity throughout Boca Raton and South Palm Beach County. Through its four pillars—Connecting Members, Advancing Commerce, Protecting Business, and Enhancing the Community—the Chamber supports business growth, advocates for a strong business climate, and fosters meaningful connections that strengthen the region.

Media Contact:

Boca Regional Chamber

1800 N. Dixie Highway, Boca Raton, FL

561-395-4433 www.bocaregionalchamber.com