<![CDATA[Greater Milwaukee Hotel & Lodging Association (GMHLA)

<![CDATA[Greater Milwaukee Hotel & Lodging Association (GMHLA) - News]]>Fri, 26 Jun 2026 08:33:59 -0500EditMySite<![CDATA[GMHLA Invests in Student Leaders for the 2026 WHLA Conference]]>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 15:56:45 GMThttps://www.gmhla.com/news/gmhla-invests-in-student-leaders-for-the-2026-whla-conferenceThe next generation of hospitality talent is eager, driven, and ready to learn—and the Greater Milwaukee Hotel & Lodging Association (GMHLA) is making sure they have a seat at the table.

We are thrilled to announce that GMHLA is sponsoring 10 student attendees to experience the premier industry event of the year: the 2026 Wisconsin Lodging Conference & Trade Show. This year’s conference is heading to the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells from November 1–3, 2026, and our sponsored students will be right there in the center of the action.

"Empowering the next generation isn't just a line in a mission statement; it’s an investment in the long-term vitality of Wisconsin’s hospitality ecosystem. By removing financial barriers, we give these students a direct pipeline to mentorship, education, and career-defining networks."

Why the Wisconsin Lodging Conference is Invaluable

For a student pursuing a career in hospitality, this event is a masterclass wrapped in a networking goldmine. Over the course of two days, attendees gain access to:

World-Class Education: More than 20 sessions covering the latest in smart operations, leadership, technology, and advocacy.
The Trade Show Floor: Wisconsin’s only lodging-specific trade show, giving students an inside look at the vendors, supplies, and innovations keeping our hotels running.
Dedicated Career Connection Tables: Exclusive breakfast sessions where students sit face-to-face with seasoned General Managers, Owners, and Resort Directors to ask questions and build professional relationships.

Registration is Open: How You Can Get Involved

A thriving industry requires a collaborative community. Whether you are looking to scout fresh talent, discover new vendors, or elevate your own leadership team, registration is officially open. Here is how you can participate:

Attend: Bring your team! Immerse yourself in industry trends, earn continuing education insights, and reconnect with peers from across the state.
Exhibit: Showcase your brand to serious decision-makers. Secure an 8' x 10' draped booth at the Trade Show on Monday, November 2, and get your products in front of Wisconsin's top hoteliers.
Sponsor: Follow GMHLA's lead! Sponsorship contributions directly ensure that registration costs stay accessible for hoteliers and students alike. Packages are available to fit every budget tier.

Don't wait until deadlines approach and rates increase. Let's show these 10 sponsored students the true power and warmth of the Wisconsin hospitality community.

Learn More About the Conference

]]><![CDATA[GMHLA Steps Onto the Court: Proud Sponsor of the Wade & Diener Home Court Weekend]]>Tue, 16 Jun 2026 19:30:16 GMThttps://www.gmhla.com/news/gmhla-steps-onto-the-court-proud-sponsor-of-the-wade-diener-home-court-weekend

The Greater Milwaukee Hotel & Lodging Association (GMHLA) is thrilled to announce our official involvement in one of the summer’s most exciting local traditions. GMHLA has officially joined the roster as a Sixth Man Sponsor for the upcoming Wade & Diener Home Court Weekend, taking place from July 16–18, 2026.

This multi-day event brings basketball legends Dwyane Wade and Travis Diener back to the area for an incredible lineup of events, and GMHLA is proud to stand alongside them. As part of the sponsorship, our association will have a prominent presence at major highlights of the weekend, including the prestigious Literacy Benefit Dinner and the high-energy Guest Bartending Event.

Why We Are Proud to Be Involved

For GMHLA, hospitality extends far beyond the doors of our hotels and venues—it’s about showing up for the community we call home. We are incredibly proud to support an initiative that brings people together, celebrates the spirit of Greater Milwaukee, and drives meaningful local impact. Our hospitality community thrives when we collaborate with impactful events like this, and we cannot wait to see our industry represented on a grand stage.

Learn More & Join the Action

The countdown to July 16–18 is officially on! To view the complete event schedule, explore ticket options, and see how you can get involved, please visit the official event page.

View the Event Page

]]><![CDATA[Replay the Rays & Rallies: 29th Annual GMHLA Tournament Recap]]>Fri, 29 May 2026 17:37:18 GMThttps://www.gmhla.com/news/replay-the-rays-rallies-29th-annual-gmhla-tournament-recap

The Greater Milwaukee Hotel & Lodging Association (GMHLA) officially ushered in the sunny season with the 29th Anniversary Volleyball Tournament on May 28, 2026, at the Root River Center.

Unlike last year’s nail-biting weather, Mother Nature fully cooperated this time around. It was an absolutely beautiful, sun-drenched day, providing the perfect backdrop for hospitality professionals and industry partners from across the Milwaukee area to connect, unwind, and smash some volleyballs before the busy summer rush takes over.

A Star-Studded Lineup of Competitors

The energy on the courts was contagious as 14 spirited teams stepped up to the net. Representing everything from premier downtown properties to local tourism bureaus and trusted industry suppliers, the camaraderie was unmatched—though the competitive drive was as fierce as ever!

A massive round of applause goes out to all of this year's participating teams who brought their absolute best to the sand:

Aloft Milwaukee Downtown
Anchor Solutions
Courtyard Milwaukee Downtown
Hampton Inn & Suites Milwaukee/Franklin
Hilton Milwaukee
Hyatt Regency Milwaukee
The Pfister Hotel
Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel
The Trade Hotel Milwaukee
Tri-North Builders
Visit Brookfield & Brookfield Conference Center
Visit Milwaukee
Weathershield
Wisconsin Center District

□ 1st Place (Champions): Anchor Solutions

The 2026 Leaderboard

After a full afternoon of spectacular rallies, diving saves, and high-stakes match points, a new champion emerged at the top of the podium!

🥇 1st Place (Champions): Anchor Solutions
🥈 2nd Place: Tri-North Builders
🥉 3rd Place: Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel

A huge congratulations to Anchor Solutions for taking home the crown, and to the powerhouse crews from Tri-North Builders and Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel for rounding out an incredible top three!

□ 2nd Place: Tri-North Builders

Strong Sponsorship & Community Support

This annual tradition wouldn't be possible without the incredible backing of GMHLA’s dedicated industry partners. Sponsor support was exceptionally strong this year, ensuring that everyone stayed refreshed and walked away with great memories:

Tri-North Builders stepped up once again to keep the energy high and the good times rolling for all the attendees.
Sid Grinker Restoration showed immense support, helping to foster the incredible community bond that makes this tournament a highlight of the year.

□ 3rd Place: Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel

A Tradition Worth Celebrating

For 29 years, this tournament has served as a vital bridge for hospitality teams and supplier supporters to step away from the daily grind, enjoy the sunshine, and celebrate the vibrant Milwaukee lodging community.

A special thank you goes out to the team at Root River Center for their outstanding hospitality and for keeping the event running flawlessly under the beautiful May sun.

We can't wait to see everyone back on the sand next year for the big 30th Anniversary! Until then, let's carry this incredible teamwork and energy into a fantastic summer season.

]]><![CDATA[GMHLA Strengthens Wisconsin Coalition at AHLA Hotels on the Hill]]>Mon, 18 May 2026 19:12:40 GMThttps://www.gmhla.com/news/gmhla-strengthens-wisconsin-coalition-at-ahla-hotels-on-the-hill

Members and staff of the Greater Milwaukee Hotel & Lodging Association (GMHLA) joined the Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association (WHLA) in Washington, D.C. for the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) Hotels on the Hill advocacy event—where Wisconsin once again led the nation with the largest single-state coalition in attendance.

Held May 13–14 at the Hilton Washington DC Capitol Hill, Hotels on the Hill is the hotel industry’s premier federal advocacy event. The program brings hotel owners, operators, and industry leaders from across the country to Capitol Hill to meet directly with members of Congress and advocate for policies that support the hospitality industry.

GMHLA Represents Milwaukee’s Hospitality Voice in Washington

GMHLA played a key role in representing the Greater Milwaukee hotel and lodging community as part of Wisconsin’s unified delegation. Milwaukee is Wisconsin’s largest hospitality market and a major driver of tourism, convention activity, and business travel in the state.

By participating alongside WHLA members, GMHLA helped ensure that the perspective of urban and metro-area hotels was included in national policy discussions. Their involvement strengthened Wisconsin’s overall message and highlighted the importance of both urban and statewide lodging operations in the broader hospitality economy.

Wisconsin Brings Largest State Coalition to Hotels on the Hill

The combined WHLA and GMHLA delegation formed the largest single-state coalition at the event, demonstrating Wisconsin’s leadership in hotel industry advocacy.

Throughout the program, delegates met with members of Congress and staff to discuss key issues affecting hotels, including:

Workforce shortages and long-term staffing solutions for the hospitality industry
Joint employer regulations and the need for clear, consistent federal guidance
Rising operating costs and regulatory uncertainty impacting hotel operations
Travel and tourism policy that supports growth and U.S. competitiveness

These meetings ensured that lawmakers heard directly from Wisconsin hotel leaders about the real-world impact of federal policy on hotel operations, employees, and guests.

Meetings with Wisconsin’s Congressional Delegation

Wisconsin delegates met with members of Congress and their staff representing districts across the state, sharing firsthand experiences from hotel properties in Milwaukee and throughout Wisconsin.

These conversations focused on strengthening the hospitality workforce, supporting tourism growth, and addressing regulatory challenges affecting hotel operations of all sizes—from independent properties to large full-service hotels.

Why Hotels on the Hill Matters

AHLA’s Hotels on the Hill remains one of the most important advocacy events for the U.S. lodging industry. It provides hotel leaders with the opportunity to engage directly with policymakers and elevate the industry’s most pressing challenges and opportunities.

For Wisconsin, this engagement is critical at a time when hotels continue to navigate workforce shortages, rising costs, and evolving travel demand.

Looking Ahead

From Milwaukee to every corner of Wisconsin, hotel leaders are stepping up to advocate for their industry. GMHLA’s participation alongside WHLA at Hotels on the Hill demonstrates the power of a connected, engaged hospitality community.

As the industry continues to navigate workforce challenges, rising costs, and evolving travel trends, Wisconsin’s voice in Washington remains more important than ever.

]]><![CDATA[Inside the Taste of Talent Lunch at WCTC]]>Wed, 29 Apr 2026 20:14:40 GMThttps://www.gmhla.com/news/inside-the-taste-of-talent-lunch-at-wctc

On April 29, the Greater Milwaukee Hotel & Lodging Association (GMHLA) hosted a memorable Taste of Talent Lunch at Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC), bringing together hospitality professionals, students, and educators for an engaging and inspiring experience.

Guests enjoyed a curated, student-prepared culinary lunch that showcased not only exceptional talent in the kitchen but also the creativity, discipline, and passion driving WCTC’s hospitality programs. Throughout the event, attendees heard directly from students and faculty about hands-on learning, skill development, and the pathways preparing students for careers in the hotel and lodging industry. A guided tour of the campus provided a behind-the-scenes look at the spaces where this training comes to life every day.

The energy throughout the event reflected a shared excitement for the future of the industry and the importance of continued investment in workforce development and education partnerships.

Next Opportunity to Connect

If you missed this event, there is another opportunity just around the corner to engage with WCTC’s hospitality programs and students. Join us for the Hospitality Showcase on May 7 from 4:30–6:30 PM at the Pewaukee campus.

This upcoming event will highlight student work, program offerings, and the continued development of future hospitality professionals—offering another valuable chance to connect, learn, and support the industry’s next generation.

]]><![CDATA[GMHLA Proudly Sponsors the 2026 Christian Yelich Home Plate Charity Concert]]>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 17:05:23 GMThttps://www.gmhla.com/news/gmhla-proudly-sponsors-the-2026-christian-yelich-home-plate-charity-concert

The Greater Milwaukee Hotel & Lodging Association (GMHLA) is proud to once again sponsor the Christian Yelich Home Plate Charity Concert—an event that brings together the best of Milwaukee’s hospitality, entertainment, and community spirit for an incredible cause.

Hosted by Christian Yelich and the Yelich family, the fourth annual Home Plate event will take place on May 21, 2026, at Landmark Credit Union Live—one of Milwaukee’s newest live music venues.

A Night of Entertainment with Purpose

This year’s event features an exciting lineup, headlined by country music star Jake Owen. Attendees will also enjoy performances by Isaac Slade and Nicotine Dolls, with Milwaukee favorite Charlie Berens returning as host.

More than just a concert, Home Plate is a celebration of community—bringing people together for an unforgettable evening while making a meaningful impact.

Supporting Milwaukee’s Future

Proceeds from the Home Plate Charity Concert benefit organizations across Greater Milwaukee that are working to strengthen the community and create opportunities for future generations.

In past years, the Yelich family has supported initiatives like the foundation connected to VISIT Milwaukee, which provides scholarships for local students pursuing careers in hospitality, as well as the Brewers Community Foundation, which positively impacts children and families throughout Wisconsin.

Why GMHLA Supports Home Plate

At its core, GMHLA is dedicated to advancing the hospitality industry and strengthening the communities it serves. Supporting the Home Plate Charity Concert aligns directly with that mission—especially through its investment in hospitality education and workforce development.

Events like Home Plate not only give back, but also showcase Milwaukee as a vibrant destination—bringing visitors, industry professionals, and community leaders together in a way that highlights the power of hospitality.

Join Us

GMHLA is honored to be part of this impactful event once again and looks forward to another incredible evening of music, connection, and community support.

To learn more about the 2026 Christian Yelich Home Plate Charity Concert or to get involved, visit the official event page.

]]><![CDATA[GMHLA Welcomes New Board Member Mat Meadows]]>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 20:18:15 GMThttps://www.gmhla.com/news/gmhla-welcomes-new-board-member-mat-meadows

We are thrilled to announce that Mat Meadows, General Manager at the Hyatt Regency Milwaukee, has been voted in as a Lodging Director on the Greater Milwaukee Hotel & Lodging Association (GMHLA) Board. The vote took place during the GMHLA Board Meeting on February 11 at The Westin Milwaukee.

As a seasoned hotel professional, Mat brings a wealth of experience in operations, leadership, and guest experience, and we’re excited to have him contribute to the strategic direction of GMHLA.

The GMHLA Board of Directors plays a critical role in guiding the association’s efforts to support Milwaukee’s vibrant hotel and lodging community. Board members help shape initiatives that advance industry standards, foster networking and professional development, and advocate for policies that benefit local hotels, staff, and guests.

Please join us in welcoming Mat to the GMHLA Board. We look forward to his insights and leadership as we continue to strengthen Milwaukee’s hotel and lodging industry together.

]]><![CDATA[Celebrate 29 Years of Teamwork and Tradition at the GMHLA Volleyball Tournament]]>Wed, 07 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMThttps://www.gmhla.com/news/celebrate-29-years-of-teamwork-and-tradition-at-the-gmhla-volleyball-tournament

For nearly 30 years, the GMHLA Volleyball Tournament has been a beloved tradition among Milwaukee-area hotels and lodging properties, and this 29th anniversary is sure to be extraordinary! This event offers a fantastic opportunity for lodging teams to come together for a day filled with friendly competition, connection, and lots of fun outside of the work environment.

It's the perfect chance to break away from the daily grind, strengthen team bonds, and enjoy quality time with colleagues from the Greater Milwaukee lodging community. Let’s make memories together!

A Tradition Built on Teams and Connection

The GMHLA Volleyball Tournament is more than just exciting matches; it’s a celebration of connections and camaraderie! Teams from hotels, industry vendors, and association partners unite to compete and cheer each other on, building relationships that last long after the tournament ends.

Whether your team is competitive or simply in it for the experience, the tournament offers something for everyone: spirited games, plenty of laughs, and an energizing atmosphere that keeps people coming back year after year.

Early-Bird Team Registration Is Open

Now is the perfect time to rally your team. Early-bird team pricing is available through February 27, offering a great value for hotels and lodging properties looking to participate in one of GMHLA’s most anticipated events.

Each team registration includes up to eight players, guaranteed game time, and access to food and sponsored beverages throughout the afternoon. Teams larger than eight can also purchase additional player passes to ensure everyone can join in on the fun.

With limited space available, early registration is encouraged to secure your spot on the sand.

Sponsorship Opportunities Available

Sponsorships for the 29th Annual GMHLA Volleyball Tournament are now open and provide a unique opportunity to connect directly with decision-makers from Milwaukee-area hotels and lodging properties.

Sponsors receive valuable visibility throughout the event, including logo placement on event communications and the opportunity to engage directly with teams and attendees. Sponsorship support helps make the tournament a memorable experience for participants while showcasing your organization to a highly engaged audience.

Why Teams Keep Coming Back

Year after year, lodging teams return to the GMHLA Volleyball Tournament because it delivers what matters most:

Team-building in a relaxed, fun environment
Strong connections with peers from other hotels and lodging properties
Friendly competition that’s accessible to all skill levels
A well-organized event that balances play, networking, and celebration

It’s more than a tournament—it’s a shared experience that strengthens the Greater Milwaukee lodging community.

Join the Tradition

If your hotel or lodging property hasn’t participated before, this is the year to join in. If you’re a returning team, you already know why this event remains a favorite.

Register your team before February 27 to take advantage of early-bird pricing, explore sponsorship opportunities, and be part of a 29-year tradition that continues to bring lodging teams together—on and off the court.

Register your team today and be part of the fun.

]]><![CDATA[Invest in Connection: GMHLA Sponsorship Opportunities for 2026]]>Mon, 05 Jan 2026 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.gmhla.com/news/invest-in-connection-gmhla-sponsorship-opportunities-for-2026

As we move through 2026, the Greater Milwaukee Hotel & Lodging Association (GMHLA) is excited to offer a full calendar of events designed to connect, educate, and support Milwaukee’s hotel and lodging community. These events don’t happen without the support of our members and partners — and event sponsorships play a vital role in making them successful.

Sponsoring a GMHLA event is more than logo placement. It’s an opportunity to build relationships, gain meaningful visibility, and support the people and businesses that drive our local industry.

Why Sponsor a GMHLA Event?

GMHLA sponsorships provide direct, face-to-face engagement with hotel owners, operators, and decision-makers across the Greater Milwaukee area. Unlike traditional advertising, sponsorships allow partners to be present where connections are made — at networking events, educational programs, and signature experiences members value most.

The Benefits of Sponsorship Include:

Year-Round Brand Visibility:** Your brand will enjoy consistent exposure throughout the year.
Onsite and Online Recognition: Acknowledgement both online and during events enhances your presence.
Direct Engagement with Attendees: Have meaningful conversations and network directly with industry professionals.
Association with a Trusted Industry Leader: Align your brand with a respected organization known for supporting the local lodging community.
Support for Strengthening Local Programs: Play an active role in initiatives that bolster our industry.

A Full Year of Events to Support

Our 2026 events calendar is packed with a diverse array of opportunities to meet our members where they are and provide them with valuable experiences throughout the year, including:

Member Mixers: Casual gatherings hosted at member properties and community locations for easy networking and relationship building.
Chapter Luncheons: Focused sessions on education, workforce development, and industry insights.
Signature Tournaments: Fun-filled Volleyball and Bags (Cornhole) tournaments that blend networking with friendly competition.
Hotel Employee Appreciation Week: Honoring the dedicated frontline teams that drive our industry forward.
Annual Meeting & Holiday Party: A time to come together, reflect on our successes, and celebrate the collective achievements of our community.

Many partners choose to sponsor multiple events throughout the year to maintain consistent visibility and engagement with GMHLA members.

Explore Sponsorship Opportunities

All available sponsorships, pricing, and benefits are outlined in the GMHLA 2026 Event & Sponsorship Menu, now available on our website.

View the Events & Sponsorship Menu

Questions or interested in customizing a sponsorship package? We’re happy to help you find the right fit.

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​Why the Wisconsin Lodging Conference is Invaluable

​Registration is Open: How You Can Get Involved