Yellville-Summit High School agriculture teacher Katherine Quinn has been named a finalist for the 2026 Stars of the Industry Educator of the Year Award. The award, presented by the Arkansas Hospitality Association, honors educators who demonstrate a significant commitment to their students and a passion for hospitality, tourism, or culinary education.
“Stars of the Industry is about recognizing the people who make hospitality personal,” said Alicia Payseno, CEO of the Arkansas Hospitality Association, in a statement. “Every day, these individuals welcome guests, lead teams, create experiences, support their communities, and help show the rest of the country what Arkansas hospitality looks like. This event gives us an opportunity to celebrate them and the impact they have on our industry.”
Quinn, who sponsors the Yellville-Summit Independent School District's Garden Program, is being acknowledged for her contributions to students and the broader Yellville community. She joins other finalists from across the state who are recognized for their impact in various sectors of the hospitality and tourism fields.
The Stars of the Industry Awards encompass 15 categories celebrating individuals and organizations across Arkansas’s hospitality industry. These categories include education, restaurants, lodging, state parks, tourism, and industry leadership. Other area nominees include Roger Gollinger from Gaston’s on the White River for Tourism Employee of the Year, Cody Jackson from 178 Club in Bull Shoals for the Maurice E. Lewis Lifetime Achievement Award, and Clint Gaston of Gaston’s White River Resort for the Silver Cup Award.
The winners will be announced during the Stars of the Industry Gala, scheduled for October 15 in Pine Bluff.