<strong>WHAT:</strong> UNLV William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration's fifth annual Vallen Dinner of Distinction.
The event honors Jerome Vallen, founding dean of UNLV's William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration. The event will feature silent and live auctions to benefit the Vallen Professorship Endowment Fund, which was established to honor Vallen's dedication to the hospitality industry and to help bring distinguished industry or educational leaders to teach at UNLV's Hotel College.

<strong>WHEN:</strong> Thursday, April 30, 2009
o Silent auction and cocktail reception begin at 5:30 p.m.
o Dinner and awards presentation begin at 7:00 p.m.

<strong>WHERE:</strong> The Orleans Hotel and Casino, Mardi Gras Ballroom, 4500 W Tropicana Ave, Las Vegas

<strong>DETAILS:</strong> The following individuals and companies will be honored for their exceptional contributions to the hospitality industry:

<em>Industry Executives of the Year:</em>
<strong>Don Ross</strong>, vice president of catering, conventions and events, Las Vegas Meetings by Harrah's Entertainment
<strong>Sal Semola</strong>, associate, Warner Gaming
<strong>Kevin Rabbitt</strong>, president and CEO, GES Exposition Services

<em>International Gaming Institute Recognition of Achievement Award</em>
<strong>Stan Fulton</strong>, entrepreneur and philanthropist

<em>Harrah's Excellence in Innovation Award</em>
<strong>Tapcode, Inc.</strong>, entertainment and hospitality software company

<em>Alumnus of the Year:</em>
<strong>Bob Boughner</strong>, president, Echelon Resorts

Media interested in attending the event should call Gian Galassi, UNLV Public Affairs, at 702-895-3104 or 203-1439.