MONTICELLO, N.Y. — The Greater Northeast Motorcoach Association (GNEMA) recognized eight industry professionals for excellence in safety, leadership, customer service, and operations during its Spring Association Meeting held April 14 in Monticello, New York.
The annual Motorcoach Professional Awards program honors employees across the motorcoach and travel industry who demonstrate exceptional performance and commitment.
Each recipient was nominated by their company and recognized in front of industry leaders and colleagues. Honorees received plaques, cash prizes, and additional giveaways.
“GNEMA is proud to recognize the individuals who represent the very best of our industry,” said Patricia Cowley, executive director of GNEMA. “These professionals go above and beyond every day, supporting safe operations, delivering exceptional service, and strengthening our industry.”
This year’s recipients are Manuel Costa of Coach USA–Suburban; Rudy Supina of DATTCO; Taylor Grillo of Greyhound Lines; Earl Jones of Lakeland Bus Lines; Earl Edwards of Panorama Tours; Jenniene Walker of Peter Pan Bus Lines; Penny Rudolph of Starr Bus Charter & Tours; and Michael Martin of Stout’s Transportation.
About the winners
Costa, of Coach USA–Suburban, was recognized for his long-standing commitment to safety, reliability and teamwork. The association described him as a model professional known for his accident-free record, strong work ethic, and willingness to support colleagues.
Supina, safety director at DATTCO, was honored for his leadership in advancing driver training and compliance initiatives there. In more than a decade at the company, he has been a trainer, safety coordinator and director. He also has nearly 30 years of prior experience in law enforcement with the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles, where he helped guide the state’s Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program and contributed to the development of major safety systems. Supina has been active with the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance for more than 25 years and is a voting member of the organization’s passenger carrier committee.
Grillo, a garage manager at Greyhound Lines, was recognized for his operational leadership and efforts to maintain fleet readiness and safety while fostering a collaborative work environment. The association cited his proactive approach and commitment to continuous improvement.
Jones, of Lakeland Bus Lines, was honored for professionalism, dependability and dedication to customer service, consistently delivering safe and positive experiences for passengers.
Edwards, of Panorama Tours, was recognized for combining driving expertise with a strong focus on customer care, earning praise for creating a welcoming and enjoyable travel experience.
Walker, of Peter Pan Bus Lines, was honored for her leadership and experience as both an operator and certified trainer, with a focus on safety, mentorship and service excellence.
Rudolph, of Starr Bus Charter & Tours, was recognized for her contributions as a mentor and for her role in developing talent within her organization, while Martin of Stout’s Transportation was honored for his growth, initiative and commitment to operational excellence.
Michael Martin, of Stout’s Transportation, was honored for his dedication, growth, and leadership within his organization. He was cited for his attention to detail, initiative, and commitment to operational excellence.
Industry engagement
In addition to the awards ceremony, the two-day event provided opportunities for networking, collaboration, and industry engagement.
Activities began on April 13 with a board of directors meeting and a Sullivan Catskills tour, offering attendees a firsthand look at regional tourism opportunities.
The evening concluded with the GNEMA’s annual Sponsor Appreciation Dinner and a meet-and-greet networking event for those not participating in the Sponsor Appreciation Dinner.
The networking event, a new addition to the Spring Meeting schedule, \was so successful that it will return next year, Cowley said
On April 14, a full day of programming included a mini-marketplace with 34 allied members, an association meeting and luncheon including keynote Andi Campbell, the Motorcoach Professional Award ceremony, and dedicated networking time.
“Bringing our members together is always a highlight,” Cowley said. “These meetings create space for real conversations, stronger connections, and continued collaboration across our industry.”
