The Kansas Restaurant and Hospitality Association (KRHA) hosted their annual Evening of Hospitality in Wichita recently. The highlight of the evening were the “Starts of the Industry” awards, which celebrates the recipient’s accomplishments and dedication to the industry.
Loren Unruh was named the 2014 Hotelier of the year. Mr. Unruh started his career in 1970 in the restaurant industry with Black Angus Steak Ranch (now Perkins Family Restaurant). In 1977 he opened the Best Western Angus Inn, which he expanded in 1980. Loren has served on the KRHA Board of Directors and is a past president of the Kansas Lodging Association. He has also served on the national Best Western Board of Directors and is a past Chairman of that board. Additionally, Mr. Unruh is the Chairman of the Great Bend Convention & Visitors Bureau and has been a constant supporter of the Great Bend community through his involvement in the Chamber of Commerce, Barton County Community College, along with various organizations and advisory boards.
“I am very surprised and extremely honored to receive this award”, said Unruh. “Receiving this award in the State of Kansas is very prestigious. After all my years in the industry it is truly a delight to be recognized in this fashion.”