Presenting the Winners of the 35th Annual ROSE Awards

Andreis Brown: Running Toward Every Challenge

Hyatt Regency

In just two years, Andreis Brown has redefined what it means to be an engineer in hospitality. Starting with a role focused on changing lightbulbs, she quickly became the go-to problem solver at the Hyatt Regency, known for stepping in when issues get complex. Whether managing a ceiling leak in a busy restaurant or responding to daily service calls, Andreis brings calm, confidence, and capability to every situation. Guests may initially be surprised to see her in a male-dominated field, but that quickly turns into trust and respect.

What truly sets Andreis apart is her mindset. She runs toward problems, not away from them. Through personal adversity, she chose hospitality as a path forward and has since built a reputation for reliability and growth. Beyond technical skill, she connects with guests in memorable ways, even becoming a favorite among youth groups who light up when they see her. Andreis proves that investing in yourself elevates everyone around you.

Keith Brown: The Mayor of Illinois Street

Le Meridien Hotel

For nearly three decades, Keith Brown has been a constant presence on Illinois Street, welcoming guests with warmth, familiarity, and genuine care. Known affectionately as the “Mayor of Illinois Street,” he has built lasting relationships far beyond parking cars. Guests seek him out, coworkers rely on him, and his impact stretches well beyond the front drive. From jump-starting cars to checking in on guests after difficult moments, Keith embodies hospitality in its purest form.

What makes Keith’s story even more powerful is the quiet resilience behind it. While facing personal health challenges, he continues to show up every day with positivity and purpose. Outside of work, he serves his community and supports others with the same dedication he gives his guests. For Keith, hospitality is not a job, it is who he is, and Indy is better because of him.

Lisa McGuire: A Lifetime of Hospitality, One Table at a Time

Provision

With more than 50 years in the industry, Lisa McGuire has turned serving into an art form. At Provision and throughout her career, she has mastered the ability to create deeply personal dining experiences, tracking guest preferences and details in notebooks she has kept for decades. Her service feels effortless, almost like a performance, where every movement is intentional and every guest feels seen.

Lisa’s impact goes far beyond the table. Her story is one of love, loyalty, and lifelong dedication to hospitality, shared alongside her husband, who also serves the Indy dining scene. Together, they represent generations of care and connection. For Lisa, guests are never just customers, they are relationships built over time, making her a true icon of Hoosier Hospitality.

Mohammed Kerfah: Building a Future Through Connection

Indianapolis Marriott Downtown

When Mohammed Kerfah arrived in Indianapolis, his plan was simple: work hard, save money, and return home to open a restaurant. But what he found instead was a passion for hospitality and a community that changed his path. Starting with limited English, Mohammed quickly learned the language and is now even teaching himself Spanish, driven by a desire to connect with every guest he meets.

That commitment shows in his impact. As one of the most highly reviewed team members at the Marriott Downtown, he consistently goes above and beyond, creating memorable experiences for guests and teammates alike. Whether stepping into multiple roles or sharing his culture with coworkers, Mohammed brings people together. What started as temporary has become something lasting, and Indy is fortunate to be part of his journey.

Alvina Casillas: Leading with Heart and Care

Old National Center

Alvina Casillas creates a sense of safety and comfort the moment you meet her. Working in security at a major entertainment venue, she balances vigilance with warmth, protecting guests while ensuring they feel at ease. Whether managing large crowds, coordinating complex logistics like securing hundreds of pieces of luggage, or supporting a guest through a panic attack, Alvina leads with both skill and compassion.

Her care extends far beyond her role. Known for feeding her team, sometimes cooking for dozens or even buying thousands of donuts out of her own pocket, she treats coworkers like family. Even through personal loss, she continues to show up with strength and generosity. Alvina reminds us that true leadership is not just about keeping people safe, it is about making them feel cared for.

Robert Newland Jr.: Showing Up When It Matters Most

Indianapolis International Airport

Robert Newland Jr. has built his life around one principle: when people need help, you show up. From his work at the Indianapolis Airport to his service in law enforcement and the military, he consistently steps into critical moments with calm and leadership. Whether assisting travelers or responding to emergencies, his instinct to serve is constant.

That instinct made a life-saving difference for one family passing through Indy. In a chaotic and terrifying accident, Robert stepped in to organize the response, support the family, and ultimately help save their daughter’s life. His actions reflect more than training, they reveal compassion, courage, and character. Robert represents the very best of Indy, showing up when it matters most and making a lasting impact on those he serves.