NEWH has named four nominees for its 2026 Pinnacle Award to be presented during the NEWH Leadership Conference on March 27.
The Pinnacle Award recognizes individuals for long-term contributions to both the hospitality industry and the NEWH community, including leadership, mentorship, and service. This year’s nominees are Stacy Elliston, Leigh Mitchell, Trisha Poole and Stacy Shoemaker Rauen.
Stacy Elliston—founder of HIVE Collaborative in Dallas—launched the firm in 2025 following more than 30 years in hospitality design. Her experience includes work with major brands such as Marriott International, Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, MGM Resorts International and Boyd Gaming. She has held multiple leadership roles within NEWH at both the chapter and international levels.
Leigh Mitchell—a Northern California-based multi-line representative—has been active in organizing NEWH Leadership Conferences in several U.S. cities and supporting chapter initiatives, including the San Francisco Bay Area’s Wine by Design fundraiser. She has also served in multiple leadership roles within NEWH, including as chapter president and in national board positions.
Trisha Poole—founder of Design Poole Inc.—established her firm in 2000 and has led hospitality projects across the U.S. and Canada. Her previous roles include design leadership positions at Fugleburg Koch Architects and The Gettys Group. Poole has held numerous leadership positions within NEWH, including serving as international president from 2014 to 2017.
Stacy Shoemaker Rauen spent more than 20 years at Hospitality Design, most recently as editor-in-chief. During her tenure, she led editorial initiatives and industry events aimed at connecting hospitality professionals. She has also held leadership roles within NEWH and served as the organization’s media ambassador for a decade.
The 2026 Pinnacle Award recipient will be announced during the conference, which is scheduled to take place in Washington, D.C. at The Westin D.C. Downtown. Members and industry leaders will gather to recognize ongoing efforts in scholarship, mentorship and professional development.