Joe Mahoney Named 2025 NACE Hall of Fame Honoree
Recognizing a legacy of leadership, mentorship, and service to the events industry
The National Association for Catering and Events (NACE) proudly announces Joe Mahoney, CPCE, as the recipient of the 2025 NACE Hall of Fame Award, one of the organization’s most distinguished honors recognizing exceptional leadership, service, and lasting contributions to the catering and events profession.
A respected hospitality and events executive with more than 35 years of experience, Mahoney’s career reflects a remarkable journey of growth, impact, and dedication—from his early days in foodservice operations to becoming a national leader and Managing Partner of HospitalityStaff®.
Mahoney’s influence within NACE spans more than two decades. Since joining in 2000, he has served in numerous leadership roles at both the local and national levels, including NACE National President (2015–2017). During his tenure, he helped guide the organization through pivotal periods of transformation, including governance changes, membership evolution, and strategic growth initiatives that continue to shape NACE today.
“Joe Mahoney exemplifies the heart and spirit of NACE,” said Jill Vidal-Raines, CPCE, President of NACE. “His decades of leadership, service, and dedication to mentorship have had a profound and lasting impact on both our organization and the broader events community. Joe’s ability to lead with integrity while continuously investing in the success of others is what makes him so deserving of this honor.”
A champion of education and professional development, Mahoney has played a critical role in advancing the Certified Professional in Catering and Events (CPCE) program, contributing to exam development, training, and certification standards that have elevated the industry. He has also been instrumental in mentoring emerging leaders, supporting student chapters, and fostering the next generation of event professionals.
His commitment to service extends beyond leadership roles. As a longtime Foundation of NACE Trustee and one of only two Foundation Patrons, Mahoney has demonstrated extraordinary philanthropy, personally contributing significant funds to support scholarships and ensure opportunities for aspiring professionals.
In addition to his work with NACE, Mahoney has built a distinguished career in hospitality operations and business leadership, including driving significant revenue growth in university dining and catering programs and leading HospitalityStaff® for nearly two decades. His leadership has consistently combined operational excellence with a passion for people, mentorship, and community engagement.
Mahoney’s legacy is perhaps best reflected in the countless professionals he has mentored and inspired, many of whom now lead successful careers across the industry. His dedication to empowering others, strengthening the profession, and advancing NACE’s mission has left an indelible mark on the organization and the broader events community.
The NACE Hall of Fame Award honors individuals whose careers exemplify sustained excellence, leadership, and service. Joe Mahoney’s contributions embody these values and reflect a lifetime commitment to the success of the industry.
The award will be presented at the 2026 NACE Experience Conference on August 4, 2026.