Testimonials 

“Being part of RIHA and RIHEF has provided our team with invaluable resources, education, and networking opportunities that help us stay informed and competitive in a constantly evolving industry. From the Economic Outlook and HR Council meetings to ServSafe training and workforce development initiatives, the support we receive has made a real impact on our business.

My connection to Gracie’s actually began through RIHEF, when Heather Singleton helped connect me with the opportunity that led me here in 2021. That relationship speaks to the personal investment RIHA and RIHEF make in hospitality professionals across the state.

The resources, guidance, and sense of community are unmatched. Every restaurant in Rhode Island can benefit from being involved with RIHA and RIHEF.”

— Guilianna Galiano, Gracie’s Ventures

“Being part of RIHA and RIHEF has connected us to a larger community of hospitality professionals who are always willing to share ideas, support one another, and help solve challenges. The relationships, resources, and educational opportunities have been invaluable for both me and my team.

One of the most rewarding parts of my involvement has been mentoring the next generation of hospitality professionals through programs like ProStart and the Hospitality Career Summit. It’s inspiring to show students that hospitality can be more than a job—it can be a meaningful and rewarding career.

Attending events like the ANCHORS Awards has also reminded our team of the importance of recognizing and celebrating great leadership. Hospitality is all about continuous learning, investing in people, and creating opportunities for growth.

RIHA and RIHEF help make those connections possible, and I encourage any hospitality business looking to strengthen its team and industry involvement to get involved.”

— Crystal Panciera, Dan's Management Company

“Joining RIHA when we opened our taproom in 2021 was one of the best decisions we made. The association has provided our team with valuable education, training, industry updates, advocacy, and support that help us navigate an ever-changing hospitality landscape.

What I value most, however, are the relationships. Through RIHA, I’ve built meaningful connections with industry peers who have become trusted mentors and friends. That sense of community is truly unique.

One of my favorite events each year is the RIHEF ProStart Competition. Watching students develop their skills and discover opportunities within hospitality is incredibly inspiring. Programs like ProStart play an important role in shaping the future of our industry.

Rhode Island’s hospitality community is welcoming, supportive, and committed to helping one another succeed. I’m proud to be part of RIHA and a community that leads with heart.”

— Erin Crossett

“Being part of RIHA has allowed us to help shape meaningful change within Rhode Island’s hospitality industry while benefiting from valuable advocacy, education, and industry connections. One of the most impactful accomplishments was working alongside RIHA and fellow caterers to help establish a statewide catering liquor license, creating a safer, more consistent system for caterers across the state.

What stands out most about RIHA is its responsiveness and strong sense of community. Members support one another, share ideas, and work together to strengthen the industry. There is real value in being connected to a network of hospitality professionals who are invested in each other’s success.

I encourage others to get involved. There is power in numbers, and when we work together, our collective voice is stronger. The relationships, resources, and opportunities available through RIHA help businesses grow while strengthening Rhode Island’s hospitality industry as a whole.

One of the things I’m most proud of is creating opportunities for people to succeed. Through initiatives like our partnership with Exeter Job Corps, we’ve been able to help individuals build meaningful careers, and that reflects the spirit of hospitality and community that RIHA represents.”

— Russell Morin, Russell Morin Catering & Events