Westfield, NJ (Restaurant News Release) The Council of Hotel and Restaurant Trainers (CHART) announced today that Sheila Johnson, Founder & CEO of Salamander Collection, has been honored with its 2026 Commitment to People Award. This prestigious accolade recognizes Johnson’s exceptional dedication to the growth, development, and well-being of hospitality professionals throughout her organization and beyond. Johnson will be honored at the Commitment to People Dinner on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, during CHART’s Hospitality Training Conference in Boston, MA.
“Sheila Johnson exemplifies what it means to break barriers and create pathways for others,” said CHART President Kelly McCutcheon, Group Director of Training at Whataburger. “Her leadership is grounded in the belief that every person deserves to feel valued, respected, and empowered to grow. Through her commitment to developing people, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities for future leaders, Sheila has built a culture that reflects the very spirit of CHART’s Commitment to People Award.”
Johnson’s nomination materials highlighted a leadership philosophy rooted in respect, authenticity, and belonging. Despite leading a growing portfolio of award-winning luxury properties, she remains deeply engaged with associates across the organization through regular property visits, town halls, and personal interactions that reinforce Salamander’s people-first culture. Under her leadership, the company has expanded learning and development resources, strengthened leadership training programs, enhanced parental leave and vacation benefits, and created meaningful pathways for career advancement.
“I am deeply honored to receive the CHART Commitment to People Award,” said Johnson upon learning of the recognition. “Throughout my career, I have believed that people are the foundation of every successful organization. Creating opportunities for others to learn, grow, and achieve their potential has always been one of the most rewarding aspects of leadership. I am grateful to CHART for this recognition and proud to share it with the talented service professionals and leaders throughout Salamander Collection who bring our vision to life every day.”
Read more about Sheila Johnson: “Breaking Barriers and Creating Pathways.”
Johnson’s commitment to people extends far beyond the walls of her hotels. From supporting educational initiatives and workforce development efforts in Jamaica to creating opportunities for hospitality professionals of color through The Family Reunion event, she has consistently used her influence to open doors and strengthen communities. Through the Sheila C. Johnson Design Center and other philanthropic initiatives, she champions economic advancement, education, and opportunity for underserved populations.
Those who nominated Johnson described her as a courageous advocate for service professionals and a leader who makes people feel seen, heard, and valued. Her ability to combine business success with a genuine commitment to developing others has helped establish Salamander Collection as one of the hospitality industry’s most respected brands.
The Commitment to People Award, established in 1993, is presented annually to a CEO or President within the hospitality sector who demonstrates outstanding commitment to the growth and development of their employees.
CHART’s Selection Committee reviews and ranks the Commitment to People nominees in four categories:
- Effective communication of the organization’s culture
- Programs that demonstrate a commitment to people
- Efforts to be involved in the development of people
- Ability to break down barriers to create opportunities
Past recipients of this prestigious award can be found on CHART’s website.
About CHART
CHART (CHART.org), a non-profit professional association founded in 1970, is the leading resource for the development and advancement of hospitality training professionals and their organizations. With more than 650 members from more than 350 restaurant, foodservice, and lodging companies, CHART represents a workforce of more than three million. CHART includes all facets of hospitality training, learning, and performance professionals, from entry level to senior executive. CHART’s mission is to develop hospitality training professionals to improve performance through access to networks, education, and resources. Follow CHART on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram at @CHARTtrainers.
About Salamander Collection
Salamander Collection is a luxury hospitality company founded by entrepreneur and business leader Sheila Johnson. The collection includes distinctive hotels, resorts, residences, and destination experiences known for exceptional service, authentic hospitality, and a strong commitment to community. Guided by a people-first philosophy, Salamander Collection creates memorable experiences for guests while investing in the growth and development of its service professionals and the communities it serves.
Contact:
Lisa Marovec
lisa@chart.org