Lynn Gray Recognized for Making a Difference

Congratulations to Lynn Gray, who received the title of Q3 Volunteer of the Quarter at the 2019 Stars of the Industry Awards for Nevada Hotel and Lodging Association. Winners are chosen by the NHLA board of directors, and while Lynn is heavily involved with the NHLA, this award is specific to her work with NHLA’s Women in Leadership group. Lynn was recognized for her passion and enthusiasm as a mentor for young women seeking guidance in the Nevada hospitality industry.

We caught up with Lynn to learn firsthand what this award means to her.

Lynn Gray

What does this award mean to you?

LYNN: It’s humbling! It’s great to be recognized, but that’s not why I volunteer. Giving back is just in my nature, it’s part of what drew me to Standard Textile. I’m passionate about being able to help others, whether it’s mentorship, giving back to our local food bank Three Square, or helping with Dress for Success. This award means that the NHLA are taking notice of what myself and Standard Textile are doing, and acknowledgement from a respected organization of peers is very meaningful.

What did you do to earn this award?

LYNN: This award was specifically for my work with my WIL mentees. Mentorship means a lot to me because my mentors helped me so greatly, and that motivates me to help others. The Las Vegas hospitality industry is fast paced and challenging, and it’s definitely not for the faint of heart. I’ve developed a set of strategies and methods that help me balance my family life, my professional life, and my personal hobbies.

I want to help young women find the confidence to further their expertise without sacrificing any personal opportunities. Whether it’s starting a family or perfecting their golf game. It can be difficult to find the balance, but I know it can be done, you just have to work hard at it.

How will this award further motivate you to succeed?

LYNN: My next goal is to reach out to more partners in the community to volunteer with and get more people involved and volunteering. NHLA and WIL are a big part of my efforts, but another of my focus groups will be working with the United Way as another way to help support the Vegas community.

People come to Vegas for the hotels and experiences that can’t be found anywhere else. And like a lot of other industries and communities, the next big focus for Las Vegas and Nevada overall, is sustainability. I had the honor to be invited to participate in Impact NV/Covene NV to help influence how our community can work on sustainability.

At Standard Textile we have a reputation for giving back, being family owned and run, and people definitely recognize that. I hope that in some way, this award will help encourage others to donate their time and energy as well.