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Each year at the Bar Summit, we gather not only to learn and connect—but to celebrate the heart and soul of the USBG: our chapters.
The USBG Chapter Awards were created by the Membership Committee to recognize outstanding achievements and efforts by local chapters across the country. The idea was born out of a need to celebrate excellence, innovation, and leadership within chapters—acknowledging the hard work of volunteers and leaders building community at the grassroots level. These awards were developed as part of a broader initiative to motivate, inspire, and elevate chapter engagement.
The program launched six years ago, with the first full round of recognitions presented at the 2019 Leadership Conference at Lazy Hills in San Antonio. Since then, the awards have continued to evolve—with updated criteria and more inclusive recognition across different chapter sizes and capacities.
The Chapter Awards spotlight best practices, successful events, and creative engagement strategies that can be shared and replicated across chapters. They serve as both a celebration and a learning opportunity, helping chapters grow stronger by learning from one another.
The 2025 Awards Ceremony at the Bar Summit in Atlanta was a moving and inspiring moment for all in attendance. Let’s take a look at this year’s honorees:
🏆 Best Education Week – USBG Phoenix
With over 25 chapters participating in Education Week and more than 120 hours of educational programming delivered, one chapter stood out for their robust schedule and thoughtful content. USBG Phoenix hosted over 10 diverse sessions—from Bar Mechanics 101 to Non-Alcoholic Cocktails and Health & Wellness topics—earning them this year’s award. Education Week has now become Education Month, giving chapters more flexibility to offer meaningful programming all September long!
🌎 Best Community Outreach – USBG Nashville
This award recognizes chapters making intentional efforts toward diversity, inclusion, and belonging. USBG Nashville took the lead with their “Hospitality is for Everyone” programming, crafting events and partnerships that lifted voices, celebrated culture, and ensured access across all levels of the industry.
💪 Health & Wellness Award – USBG Pittsburgh
This chapter embraced wellness in truly creative and inclusive ways—from group fencing lessons and kayaking adventures to a functional movement workshop led by a kinesiology expert. Their holistic, consistent approach to wellness earned them this year’s award.
❤️ Charitable Giving Award – USBG Cleveland
With over 10 charitable events, and the creation of a scholarship fund for members pursuing professional development, USBG Cleveland raised the bar on giving back. Their efforts exemplify the spirit of generosity and service that defines the bartending community.
🔥 Most Engaged Membership – USBG Oklahoma City
This award celebrates a chapter that built a consistently active, connected, and thriving membership. USBG OKC’s events, leadership, and member-driven initiatives kept participation strong all year long—proof of a community that shows up for each other.
🌟 Member of the Year – Mike Montez, USBG Orange County
This year’s award was given in memory of Mike Montez, a beloved leader whose energy, mentorship, and dedication helped shape the USBG community. Selected before his passing, this recognition reflects the lasting impact he made on so many. Accepting the award on his behalf was Tony Quaresma, Orange County Chapter Treasurer.
Energy is never lost—it just changes form. Mike’s energy remains with us, in every action and connection he helped create.
🏅 President’s Award for Integrity in Leadership – Mcson Salicetti, USBG New York
Chosen by past and current USBG Presidents, this award honors a leader who exemplifies consistency, authenticity, and courage. Mcson Salicetti earned this year’s honor through his unwavering dedication, transparent leadership, and principled service to the Guild.
🎖️ Lifetime Member Award – Kyle McHugh
After 18 years of service to the USBG—as Chapter President, Regional Council Representative, National Board Member, and now President of the USBG National Charity Foundation—Kyle McHugh was inducted as this year’s Lifetime Member. His legacy of leadership, mentorship, and service continues to shape the future of the Guild.
✨ Rising Star Chapter – USBG Atlanta
Hosting the 2025 Bar Summit while rebuilding a chapter that had once disbanded is no easy feat—but USBG Atlanta did it with style, passion, and purpose. Their consistent programming, growing engagement, and commitment to community earned them the Rising Star Chapter of the Ye
🏆 Chapter of the Year – USBG Dallas
This top honor goes to a chapter that consistently demonstrates excellence across the board. From member engagement and inclusive programming to leadership development and operational strength, USBG Dallas delivered it all—earning Chapter of the Year for the second time, the first being in 2019.
The Power of Community
Congratulations to all our winners and nominees. Whether your chapter is large or small, new or established, every effort made to unite and elevate our community matters. The USBG Chapter Awards remind us that we’re stronger together—and that leadership, service, and heart are worth celebrating.
Let’s carry that spirit into the year ahead. We are the bar.