King of Prussia, Pennsylvania — ImageFIRST®, a leading provider of linen and laundry services to the healthcare and hospitality sectors, has announced the winners of its second annual ServiceSTARS Contest, an initiative that recognises hospitality professionals who exemplify dedication and excellence in guest service.
The competition, now in its second year, celebrates individuals whose professionalism and commitment to hospitality inspire colleagues and elevate guest experiences. Following a nationwide nomination process and public vote, four outstanding professionals have been named the top ServiceSTARS for 2025.
The winners — each representing hospitality venues across Oklahoma and Nevada — will receive a share of a total prize fund of $8,250, with the option to donate the equivalent value to a charity of their choice.
Four Stars Shine in 2025 ServiceSTARS Awards
The top four honourees are:
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Dawn Battey, Los Cabos Broken Arrow, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
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Glory Wells, Wanda J’s Next Generation, Tulsa, Oklahoma
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Kim Merrell, Red Rock Country Club, Las Vegas, Nevada
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Arturo Zepeda, Cruise America, Las Vegas, Nevada
Each winner will be recognised locally at regional celebrations hosted by ImageFIRST. The company confirmed that full details of these events will be made available to the press upon request.
Recognising Excellence Across the Industry
The ServiceSTARS programme has quickly become one of ImageFIRST’s hallmark initiatives, designed to showcase the stories of hospitality professionals who consistently go above and beyond. The contest invites ImageFIRST’s Service Team members from across the United States to nominate individuals whose contributions embody exceptional care and customer service.
After the shortlist of ten finalists was selected from an extensive pool of nominations, the final winners were determined through a public voting process hosted on the contest’s website.
“Dawn is known for her exceptional professionalism and respect at work,” said Rick Deckard, ImageFIRST Service Director in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. “What truly makes her remarkable is her involvement outside of work, through her dedication and passion for various pet organizations and the community.”
The Oklahoma-based general manager has been widely praised for her leadership both within her organisation and in the wider community.
Winners Reflect on Their Recognition
In response to the honour, Dawn Battey, General Manager at Los Cabos Broken Arrow, expressed her gratitude for the recognition.
“ServiceSTARS showed me how much my work in the industry has connected me with so many amazing people. I feel honored that so many voted for me and that many were able to see and hear about the amazing organizations that I volunteer with.”
Battey’s remarks echo the spirit of the ServiceSTARS initiative — celebrating those who make hospitality not only a career but also a calling rooted in empathy and service.
A Tribute to Service Values
Catherine Smith, ImageFIRST Oklahoma General Manager, said the contest highlights the human element behind exceptional service.
“Behind every positive guest experience is someone who made the effort to go above and beyond,” Smith noted. “Each nominee represents the values that define great service – attentiveness, empathy, and a commitment to excellence. The ServiceSTARS contest brings these moments to the forefront, reminding us of the people who are at the core of great service. On behalf of all ImageFIRST associates, congratulations to this year’s nominees, finalists, and winners.”
Runners-Up and Finalists
In addition to the top four winners, several other finalists were recognised for their exceptional contributions to hospitality:
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John Sethney, Verde, Boulder, Colorado
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Elizabeth Thibodeau, Point Sebago, Casco, Maine
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Philippe Boutinet, Philippe French Bakery, Fort Collins, Colorado
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Dan Philip, Governor’s Inn, Rochester, New Hampshire
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Julie Odle, Golden Nugget, Cripple Creek, Colorado
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Bhati Patel, Flying Horse Resort & Club, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Celebrating Service Excellence
The ServiceSTARS contest continues to build momentum as a hallmark recognition programme within the hospitality industry, celebrating the professionals whose dedication enhances the guest experience nationwide.
By acknowledging individuals who demonstrate attentiveness, empathy, and a commitment to excellence, ImageFIRST underscores its mission to promote a culture of respect and service that extends beyond the workplace — a message that resonates deeply within the hospitality sector and beyond.
