Chris Rice named 2025 NEWH ICON of Industry at Network of Executive Women in Hospitality (NEWH)
NEWH, Inc. (Network of Executive Women in Hospitality), the premier organization dedicated to scholarships, education, mentorship, and networking in the hospitality industry, has named Chris Rice, founder and president of Kellex Corporation, as the 2025 NEWH ICON of Industry recipient. The organization's most prestigious recognition, the ICON of Industry, is honored at the Gold Key Gala on November 10, 2025, in New York City in conjunction with BD|NY.
The NEWH ICON of Industry award celebrates manufacturing leaders in hospitality, honoring those who have uniquely impacted the industry for more than 30 years through their innovative work, consistent dedication to the community, and industry outreach through education and corporate giving. Beginning in 1994, Rice founded and continues to lead Kellex Corporation, an industry-recognized leader in quality furniture manufacturing for the hotel industry while also giving back to the community.
"Chris represents exemplary leadership in the hospitality industry, cultivating a culture of excellence, service, and community. He embodies our organization's commitment to the advancement of the profession through thoughtful investment both within his organization and the industry at large," said Chris Tucker, CEO of NEWH, Inc. "He has consistently championed the success of hospitality, uplifting both established and up-and-coming voices in a way that furthers the mission of NEWH."
NEWH recognizes Rice as an innovator, mentor, and steadfast advocate for American manufacturing, exemplified across his three decades in hospitality. His commitment to fostering a positive work culture has set a benchmark for the industry, proving that investing in employees' well-being translates into long-term success. In addition to implementing education and workforce development initiatives internally, Rice is deeply committed to supporting emerging talent in the industry, curating programming for high school and college students to learn more about hospitality manufacturing through immersive experiences.
In 2024, Rice's dedication to the industry was further underscored by his establishment of a design competition for interior design college students, stemming from his passion for educating future designers. This initiative provided students with a comprehensive learning experience, combining classroom education with hands-on exposure through factory visits focused on contract furniture, specifications, and industry practices. As a result, two winning teams emerged with standout designs, which will be showcased at BD|NY this November.
As the NEWH ICON of Industry, Rice represents the heart of NEWH's mission to promote the advancement of hospitality professionals at every level while uplifting those around him.
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