Michigan Meetings + Events magazine, considered a premier publication for hospitality industry professionals, recently announced its seven 2017 Hall of Fame inductees, which included The Townsend Hotel’s Director of Catering, Joanie Sams.  Winners were celebrated at a ceremony on May 18 at the City Opera House in Traverse City.

Sams, named “best supplier,” has been with The Townsend for nearly 30 years, having joined the property when it opened in 1988.  In 1994, she assumed her role as director of the catering department.  During her tenure, Sams has helped thousands of clients celebrate life’s milestones, execute corporate meetings and plan non-profit fundraising events.  She lists among her greatest professional achievements providing hospitality for the 2004 Ryder Cup.  Not only did it take four-and-a-half years of planning, but it was the first time European and U.S. golf teams stayed under the same roof.