On Tuesday evening in Destin, the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) held its annual Hospitality Stars of the Industry Gala at the Henderson Beach Resort, recognizing leaders in the state’s hospitality sector. The event featured the induction of the 2025 Hall of Fame winners and the swearing-in of the 2026 FRLA Board Executive Committee, with Greg Cook of The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, taking on the role of Chairman of the Board.
“It is a privilege to honor those whose lifelong dedication has defined excellence in Florida’s hospitality industry,” said Carol Dover, President and CEO of the FRLA. “FRLA’s 2025 Hall of Fame inductees have shaped and strengthened our industry through decades of leadership, vision, and innovation. With more than 140 years of combined service, their legacy of excellence continues to inspire and set the standard for future generations of hospitality professionals. Congratulations to our outstanding Hall of Fame winners!”
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Dick Rivera of Suncoast Hospitality Partners in Sarasota. Rivera has over five decades of experience in the restaurant sector. He is the founder of Suncoast Hospitality Partners LLC, a company involved in several restaurant ventures, and is affiliated with Rubicon Enterprises, which owns or operates 26 restaurants across the United States. Rivera began his career at Steak and Ale Restaurants of America and has held senior roles at brands such as Darden Restaurants, Longhorn Steakhouse, TGI Friday’s, Inc., Applebee’s, and El Chico Corp. His professional accolades include the Nation’s Restaurant News “Golden Chain” award, the “Restaurant Business Leadership Award,” the Silver Plate from the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association, and FIU’s Michael E. Hurst Hospitality Leadership Award. Rivera has served on multiple boards, including Golden Corral Corporation, Ringling College of Art and Design, and Sarasota Orchestra. He is a former chairman of both the National Restaurant Association and the Florida Citrus Sports Association.
Jordan Beckner, founding partner and President of Sales at FiberBuilt Umbrellas in Pompano Beach, was named Supplier of the Year. Since co-founding FiberBuilt Umbrellas in 2000, Beckner has participated actively in the hospitality industry through various leadership roles on educational foundations and councils related to hotels and resorts.
The Restaurateur of the Year award went to Mike Quillen, president of Watershed Hospitality Concepts, Gecko’s Hospitality Group, and Micas Mountain Kitchen. Quillen oversees 15 locations across Florida and North Carolina, employing more than 800 people. His management approach emphasizes employee development, community involvement, and operational excellence. Quillen has received several “Best Of” guest awards as well as humanitarian recognition for his work in the industry.
Heiko Dobrikow, Executive Vice President of The Las Olas Company and General Manager of Riverside Hotel in Fort Lauderdale, was honored as Hotelier of the Year. With more than 30 years’ experience in hospitality management, Dobrikow is known for his leadership in team building and organizational transformation. He has served on local business boards and led community organizations.
The FRLA represents more than 10,000 members across Florida’s hospitality sector, including hotels, restaurants, franchises, theme parks, and suppliers. The association provides legislative advocacy for its members, regulatory compliance support, food safety training through Safe Staff and RCS Training, and career-building programs through its Educational Foundation.
