Food & Dining Experiences
Sebastian Hoon – Bourre Bonne Steakhouse
Debra Lease-Baker – Al’s Table-Crowne Plaza Hotel
Brittany Chism – Swizzle (Galt House Hotel)
Reuben Devoe – Vincenzo’s
Cynthia Smith – Louisville Marriott East
Graham Stocksdale – Mark’s Feed Store
Rose Award Voting will begin at 12:00 am on October 8th and end on October 16th at midnight on louisvilleroseawards.com.
Only one vote in each of the 11 categories will be counted from an individual email address.
Please share on your social media, louisvilleroseawards.com, and encourage your family & to read about these inspiring finalists and vote!
Sebastian Hoon
Bourre Bonne Steakhouse
From the start, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership in the hospitality industry. As he navigates the restaurant, he radiates calmness; for him, work is not just an obligation - he genuinely enjoys the hospitality sector and is focused on enhancing his skills, such as mastering wine opening techniques. Sebastian's warm smile brightens any setting, and his empathetic nature supports colleagues during challenging times. He is consistently punctual and shows consistent professionalism, kindness, and courtesy. He manages stress with impressive resilience, confronting challenges head-on. His commitment to improving guest reviews and ensuring satisfaction at Steakhouse Bourre Bonne is commendable. Driftwood Hospitality, along with Steakhouse Bourre Bonne and his colleagues, is fortunate to have him. He has passion and fire for hospitality!
Debra Lease-Baker
Al’s Table-Crowne Plaza Hotel
Debra is the embodiment of hospitality, with 45 years of service that have shaped not only guest experiences but the very culture of her workplace. Her warmth, grace, and professionalism create genuine connections that make every guest feel like family. Debra's influence goes far beyond the dining room - she's a mentor, a role model, and a source of inspiration for her colleagues. Her infectious positivity, unwavering dedication, and commitment to excellence have elevated the standards of service at AJS Company and reflect the welcoming spirit of Louisville itself. Debra doesn't just serve - she uplifts, empowers, and leaves a legacy of kindness and care that continues to ripple through every corner of the hospitality community.
Brittany Chism
Swizzle (Galt House Hotel)
Brittany exemplifies what it means to deliver exceptional service. Her dedication, professionalism, and genuine care for both clients and colleagues consistently elevate the experience for everyone around her. She handles VIP requests with ease and grace, ensuring each client feels valued and leaves with a lasting impression of excellence. From managing complex situations to mentoring teammates, Brittany brings a thoughtful and consistent approach that inspires confidence. Her attention to detail, empathy, and ability to build strong relationships have made a meaningful impact on the organization. She doesn't just meet expectations - she exceeds them, setting a high standard for quality and care that others strive to follow. Brittany's integrity and passion for service make her a standout and a true asset to any team.
Reuben Devoe
Vincenzo's
Reuben has been the heart of Vincenzo's for 35 years, offering a level of service that is both exceptional and deeply personal. He doesn't just take care of guests - he elevates their experience with charm, intuition, and genuine warmth. Reuben has an extraordinary ability to read a room and respond to unspoken needs, making every visit feel effortless and unforgettable. His presence brings comfort, joy, and a sense of occasion, whether it's a casual lunch or a meaningful celebration. One moment that speaks volumes was when he quietly gifted two desserts to grieving guests, saying, "life can be hard, but I hope today brings a little sweetness." That kind of grace is what makes Reuben unforgettable.
Cynthia Smith
Louisville Marriott East
Cynthia began her journey at the Louisville Marriott East nine years ago as a banquet team member and has since grown into an invaluable asset to the property. Over the years, shehas earned promotions to Banquet Manager, consistently proving herself as an inspirational leader who leads by example and embodies a strong customer-first approach. Known for her humility, Cynthia rarely seeks recognition, yet her impact has been instrumental in the hotel's success. She has cultivated a skilled, motivated, and positive team culture that reflects her pride in developing others. With a reputation for operational excellence, she is a meticulous planner, a dedicated leader of the J1 intern program, and a steady hand when navigating last-minute changes and challenging event demands - all with grace and professionalism.
Graham Stocksdale
Mark's Feed Store
Graham is a remarkable example of dedication, creativity, and community spirit in the hospitality industry. Starting at Mark's Feed Store as his first job, Graham worked his way through school and earned a master's degree in therapy. Today, he teaches full-time at Mercy Academy while still committing to regular shifts at the restaurant and returning full-time during summers. His loyalty to the team, guests, and the brand is unwavering. Graham's contributions go far beyond his scheduled shifts. He is a trusted resource for staff, offering guidance and support on both professional and personal matters. Guests, especially older patrons, are drawn to his warmth, honesty, and ability to connect. Graham is known for his kindness, humor, and genuine care for others. Whether checking in on someone going through a hard time or simply bringing joy to a busy shift, he consistently shows up with heart.