Bob White
The Greater Chattanooga Hospitality Association (GCHA) has named Bob White, Ruby Falls property and facilities manager, the 2018 Tourism Manager of the Year.
Mr. White was chosen from a select group of Chattanooga area hospitality and tourism managers due to his outstanding service to the park, Ruby Falls guests and the community. In 1978, Mr. White joined Ruby Falls as a high school student and for 40-years has provided an unwavering dedication to multi-faceted responsibilities. “From mentoring hundreds of team members over the years, to maintaining a cavern hidden 1,120 feet underground in addition to a historic, landmark building, Bob is a key part of creating lasting memories for hundreds of thousands of guests annually from around the world” said Kara Van Brunt, senior director of operations and development.
Ruby Falls joined in celebrating Mr. White’s achievement at the Greater Chattanooga Hospitality Award Luncheon today where the award was presented. Mr. White is a long-time resident of Lookout Mountain and serves as chairman of the selection committee for the annual John T. Steiner, Sr. Scholarship, a group charged with granting two scholarships annually to Ruby Falls team members pursuing college degrees.
Ruby Falls President Hugh Morrow said, “Bob White’s ability to flexibly meet the challenges of any given day is a hallmark of who Bob is. Bob has the uncanny ability to bring out the best in team members because of his example and ability to mentor. Bob sees an individual’s potential and willingly takes the time to nurture it.”
Each year, the Greater Chattanooga Hospitality Association recognizes outstanding cooperation and professionalism of individuals and companies in the hospitality industry with the “Stars of the Industry” awards.