Release Date: May 7,2026
Summit County Tourism Industry Celebrated at 2026 Zenith Awards Luncheon
AKRON, Ohio (May 7, 2026) – The Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau (ASCVB) celebrated the region’s hospitality and tourism industry during the 23rd Annual Zenith Awards Luncheon on May 6 at the John S. Knight Center. Nearly 300 hospitality professionals, community leaders and industry partners gathered to recognize outstanding contributions from businesses and individuals across Summit County.
The event is held during National Travel and Tourism Week, an annual tradition that highlights travel’s essential role in driving economic growth, creating jobs and enhancing quality of life across the United States. According to a Tourism Economics report, in Summit County, direct visitor spending totaled $1.7 billion in 2023, and visitor activity sustained more than 21,000 jobs.
Ren Camacho, board chair of the ASCVB and president and CEO of Akron-Canton Airport, joined Gregg Mervis, president and CEO of the ASCVB, in presenting awards to 15 hospitality partners whose creativity, collaboration and commitment continue to strengthen Summit County’s visitor economy.
“The Zenith Awards give us an opportunity to celebrate the people and organizations that help make Summit County such a welcoming and memorable destination,” said Gregg Mervis. “Their passion, innovation and dedication shape the experiences visitors remember long after they leave, and we are proud to recognize the tremendous impact they have on our hospitality community.”
Leianne Neff Miller, president and CEO of the Summit County Historical Society of Akron, Ohio, received the 2026 Chairman’s Award. This honor is given to a partner in the hospitality industry who has made significant, innovative and notable contributions; who advocates for our collective work in elevating, growing and promoting Greater Akron and Summit County as a premier destination; and a leadership legacy that has left a lasting, positive impact on the hospitality industry.
The Susan L. Hamo Hospitality Person of the Year Award was presented to A.J. Stokes, owner of Stokes Sound, Inc. The award recognizes an individual who exemplifies hospitality through exceptional service, professionalism and dedication to the industry.
The Arts & Culture Impact Award celebrates an entity, initiative or experience that has successfully positioned arts, culture and heritage as a driving force for tourism in Summit County. The ASCVB partnered with ArtsNow to highlight our region’s artistic and cultural landscape. Nicole Mullet, executive director of ArtsNow, presented this year’s award to Main Street Barberton for its ongoing efforts to revitalize downtown Barberton through economic development, historic preservation, public art and community programming. Through year-round events, festivals and placemaking initiatives, Main Street Barberton continues to strengthen the city’s identity as a destination for residents and visitors alike.
Additional honors included the Hospitality Industry Awards, selected through industry nominations, and the Best-in-Class Awards, determined by public vote.
23rd Annual Zenith Award Winners:
- Chairman’s Award: Leianne Neff Miller, Summit County Historical Society of Akron, Ohio
- Susan L. Hamo Hospitality Person of the Year Award: A.J. Stokes, Stokes Sound, Inc.
- Arts & Culture Impact Award: Main Street Barberton
- Hospitality Industry Awards:
- Social Media Spotlight: Akron Zoo
- Stellar Service: Francine Noll, Hilton Garden Inn Akron
- Pinnacle Partnership: Akron History Center, Akron-Summit County Public Library and Summit County Historical Society of Akron, Ohio
- Rookie of the Year: Sam James, Akron Zoo
- Hotel Partner of the Year: DoubleTree by Hilton Akron Fairlawn
- Hospitality Impact: Silver Creek Metro Park Cross Country Course, Summit Metro Parks
- Best-in-Class Awards:
- Flavor of Distinction: Papa Joe’s Iacomini’s
- Sip of Distinction: Café Bereka
- Hottest Hidden Gem: Akron Glass Works
- Best Retail Therapy: Zeber-Martell Gallery & Clay Studio
- Best Photo Op: Brandywine Falls, Cuyahoga Valley National Park
- Can’t Miss Experience: MAPS Air Museum
About the Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau:
The Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau (ASCVB), established in 1973, is the official destination marketing organization for Summit County, Ohio. Dedicated to promoting the region as a premier travel destination, the ASCVB works collaboratively with industry partners, stakeholders and the community to showcase Summit County's natural beauty, cultural attractions and unique experiences.