Greater Knoxville Hospitality Association - GKHA

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Greater Knoxville Hospitality Association - GKHA GKHA is a non profit membership organization for hotels/lodging, restaurants, venues, attractions, service and suppliers of the hospitality and tourism

GKHA is a not for profit membership organization for hotels/lodging, restaurants, venues, attractions, service and suppliers of the hospitality and tourism industry - dedicated to enhance the economic, legislative and social interest of its members throughout the Greater Knoxville area.

Our GKHA Have A Heart initiative has been activated as Hurricane Isaias triggers evacuations in the northern Gulf Coast ...
10/09/2026

Our GKHA Have A Heart initiative has been activated as Hurricane Isaias triggers evacuations in the northern Gulf Coast region.

Please provide your Extra Hospitality.

2026 Governor's Conference on Hospitality & Tourism, presented by Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association and sponso...
10/02/2026

2026 Governor's Conference on Hospitality & Tourism, presented by Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association and sponsored by Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, was one of the most inspiring, educational, and celebratory experiences. Making new connections and engaging with fellow Hospitality/Tourism professionals always lifts spirits.

We were blessed with beautiful weather in Gatlinburg and treated to many of the amazing attractions (wild bear encounters included!).

We are especially proud to announce our GKHA members who were recognized at the 2026 Stars of the Industry Gala:

💫 INDUSTRY EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR Christopher Kelley, UTK Retail, Hospitality & Tourism Management - acknowledged for his enthusiasm and encouragement when working with students and colleagues.

💫 TOURISM MANAGER OF THE YEAR Aaron Gickling, Topgolf - presented for his strong, results-driven leadership, coaching the team and leading by example.

💫 🦅 HOTELIER OF THE YEAR Shailesh Patel, The 9 Group - honoring his hard work, integrity, vision and unwavering belief in family.

💫 🦅 TOURISM PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR Jill Thompson, Greater Knoxville Hospitality Association - GKHA - celebrating her passion and commitment in driving tourism to new heights.

Congratulations 🎉 to our STARS and to all the 2026 Stars of the Industry across the state of Tennessee!

🍍GKHA CheckIn -
08/28/2026

🍍GKHA CheckIn -

GKHA Lunch & Learn August 2026

The STARS will shine on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at the Greater Knoxville STARS OF THE INDUSTRY PAULY AWARDS & SCHOLARSHIP ...
04/28/2026

The STARS will shine on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at the Greater Knoxville STARS OF THE INDUSTRY PAULY AWARDS & SCHOLARSHIP LUNCH.

Come join us as we celebrate the BRIGHTEST STARS in the hospitality/tourism industry. Heard the stories of their commitment and passion for the industry.

Guest Speaker: Kai-Sean Lee, Assistant Professor, University of Tennessee Hospitality Tourism Management Program

Guest Presentor: Cory Dickson, CEO/Founder, Dickson Media Events

PAULY Awards and Hospitality Education Scholarship Presentations

03/30/2026

Knox County Mayor & Knox County Sheriff candidates forum this evening, March 30th at Embassy Suites Knoxville West, 6-8 p.m. presented by Greater Knoxville Hospitality Association.

All candidates have confirmed their attendance.

Mayor Candidates:
Elect Kim Frazier for Knox County Mayor
Betsy Henderson
Larsen Jay
Beau Hawk for Knox County Mayor

Sheriff Candidates:
David Amburn for Knox County Sheriff
Mike Davis for Sheriff
Elect Brent Gibson
Jimmy "J.J." Jones for Knox County Sheriff

Come meet the individuals who are running to be Knox County's next Mayor and Sheriff.

Open to the public.

Address

P. O. Box 239
Knoxville, TN
37901

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