Hilton Garden Inn, the award-winning brand of upscale, yet affordable hotels, has honored lifelong East Boston resident Dena DiMarzo, of the Hilton Garden Inn Boston Logan Airport with the company’s Spirit of the Garden Award. The award designates DiMarzo as a top performer within the global brand of Hilton Garden Inn hotels.
Nominated by their peers because of exemplary loyalty, attitude and service, the chosen team members continually exceed expectations of both customers and fellow team members. Less than one percent of all Hilton Garden Inn team members nationwide receive this honor each year.
DiMarzo was nominated for the award by her peers after proving to be an exceptional role model.
“Dena continues to make outstanding contributions to guests and team members, showing great enthusiasm in all areas of her work at the hotel,” said Kevin Buchanan, general manager. “We are proud of the recognition as a Spirit of the Garden Award winner, the company’s most prestigious team member award. Employees like Dena create a welcoming and exceptional experience for guests which impacts other team members and creates a domino effect of great service.”
DiMarzo represents the true spirit of Hilton Garden Inn. Employed at the hotel at 100 Boardman St. since August, 2015, Dena has gone above and beyond in the service to Hilton guests, and is active in the local community.
DiMarzo, a 1998 graduate of East Boston High School, will receive a cash prize of $350, a Spirit Award plaque and lapel pin, and other special recognition.
DiMarzo is a full-time bartender and waitress at Hilton Garden Inn. It was her grandmother, Rita Zozzi, who heard about a local job fair and encouraged Dena to fill out an application.
“My grandmother and [director of sales] Steve Haley are the two reasons I am her working,” said DiMarzo, daughter of Donna Zozzi and Dominic DiMarzo. “I also have to thank my daughter, Deanna, and my boyfriend, P.J., for their support.”
DiMarzo, who is a welcoming face at the restaurant in the lobby for many who stay at the hotel and attend functions there, enjoys working at the hotel that is situated near Logan Airport and only three miles from downtown Boston.
“Kevin is a great general manager and the people here are amazing,” said DiMarzo. “If it wasn’t for working with such great people like Kevin Buchanan, Steve Haley, and [assistant general manager] Zach Schwarting, and food and beverage manager] Tom DiMasi, it wouldn’t have made it as easy to work here and do what we do. Coming to work here is the best move I’ve ever made. The Hilton company is amazing to work for. They take care of their employees. They do great things in the community. They make sure that good work goes noticed. I’m living proof of that. Winning this award is huge.”
Hilton Garden Inn Boston Logan Airport general manager Kevin Buchanan is pictured with East Boston resident and hotel employee Dena DiMarzo, who was honored as the recipient of the prestigious Spirit of the Garden Award.