President's Message 2024

Heather R. Singleton - Interim President/CEO

Stepping into my role as the Interim President and CEO of the Rhode Island Hospitality Association (RIHA), I’m acutely aware of the considerable shoes I have to fill. Through her 35 years of dedicated leadership, Dale Venturini left an indelible mark on RIHA and the broader hospitality community. It’s with a blend of optimism and determination that I approach this responsibility, aiming to steer RIHA and the RI Hospitality Education Foundation (RIHEF) into a future that honors our rich, 60-plus-year legacy, and also enhances our capacity to represent, train, and advocate for Rhode Island’s vital hospitality sector.

Reflecting on the resilience our community has demonstrated over my more than 25 years at RIHA, I’m inspired by the spirit and adaptability of our members and our industry. Your strength fuels my commitment to steering RIHA with a vision focused on advocacy, growth, innovation, and sustainability.

My mission is clear: to elevate our collective voice. By fostering closer ties with policymakers, the media, and the public, we’ll continue to confront industry-threatening challenges head on and offer solutions, highlight the many opportunities our industry presents, and amplify our advocacy in all corners of the state. It’s about creating a narrative that not only showcases our resilience, but also influences policy and public opinion to support our growth.

Financial health is the backbone of our ability to advocate and innovate. I’m committed to ensuring RIHA/RIHEF remains robust, able to support our initiatives, and stands firm for our members’ and hospitality as a whole. Education and training are the keys to unlocking our full potential. I’m passionate about expanding our programs to empower not just today’s leaders but also tomorrow’s innovators. As we look ahead, I’m excited to embark on this journey with you. Together, we’ll navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

Warm regards,
Heather R. Singleton - Interim President/CEO