Rich Maladecki: O N E M A N - I M PAC T I N G S O M A N Y L I V E S
A look back at the career and accomplishments of Rich Maladecki, president and CEO of the Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association. By Donna Stutts
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lashback: It’s December 2006 at the Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association Gala. There are beautifully decorated tables, ball gowns and tuxedos, candlelight, music and friends. Excitement is in the air.
Wardrobe Malfunction I’m sitting at a table of 10 furiously trying to fix the strap of my gown that has become unhooked. Rich is on stage presenting CFHLA awards when I hear my name: Donna Stutts, “Allied Member of the Year.” What? Are you kidding me? I had no clue this was coming. The entire audience has to wait until I can be presentable, but then I walk proudly to the stage to Rich Maladecki, president and CEO of the Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association. Never in my life have I experienced a moment like that. One moment, like so many moments created and orchestrated by Rich Maladecki. For 23 years, Rich has led CFHLA to greatness. The face of Central Florida and tourism has forever been changed. January 2021 marks his final farewell as he retires, but his legacy will live on long after. In honor, we’ve asked Rich to share some of his moments with you.
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Central Florida Lifestyle | January 2021
