NEWH Inc. (Network of Executive Women in Hospitality) has announced Fiona Rath and Aiden Stich as the winners of its inaugural Structures of Hospitality Excellence (SOHE) Scholarships. In addition to the scholarship presentation at ALIS DESIGN+ NEWH Inc. will present its inaugural “2025 NEWH SOHE Award,” which recognizes excellence in hospitality construction and the honored firm’s dedication to NEWH’s mission.
The first scholarship, a $10,000 award sponsored by MGroup and ALIS DESIGN+, recognizes a student pursuing a four-year degree or graduate degree in architecture, construction management, civil or environmental engineering, or project management. This prestigious honor will be awarded to Fiona Rath, who is currently pursuing her Master of Architecture degree at the University of Pennsylvania.
The second scholarship, a $5,000 award sponsored by Delta Faucet Company and ALIS DESIGN+, recognizes a student pursuing a technical certificate or associate degree in the building trades at a junior college or trade school. This honor is presented to Aiden Stich, who is pursuing an Associate of Applied Science degree in Electrical Technology at Ozark Technical Community College.
The SOHE Award ceremony will highlight the winner of this prestigious program, recognizing innovative methods, processes, and exemplary team management that drive exceptional renovations and new construction projects worldwide. The program also honors a firm who demonstrates a strong commitment to philanthropy.
“Hospitality excellence is defined in many different ways, and we’re honored to recognize individuals who embody this concept in the pursuit of their careers in the construction industry,” says Chris Tucker, CEO of NEWH. “As the inaugural year of the SOHE program, we look forward to many years of honoring individuals and organizations that continue to accelerate hospitality innovations forward through construction.
The esteemed judging panel consists of: Lon Alperin, Senior Director North America of Architecture, Design and Construction Lifestyle Brands at Hilton Worldwide; Scott R. Bouchard, Senior Director of Global Design US & Canada for Marriott International; Bridget Rooks, VP of Architecture, Design & Construction at Sonesta International Hotels; Suzanne Saunders, Senior VP of Design & Construction at Hospitality Ventures Management Group; and David Tracz, AIA, LEED AP, Partner at //3877.
NEWH is the international nonprofit community connecting the hospitality industry, providing scholarships, education, leadership development and recognition of excellence. Through educational programs, mentorship opportunities and networking events, the organization strives to foster leadership development and facilitate meaningful connections among industry professionals.
To learn more about NEWH, its events, membership opportunities, and educational offerings, please visit www.newh.org.
