The leader of a company that operates resort restaurants and hotels is scheduled to deliver the keynote presentation at an upcoming event at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction.

Phillips Armstrong, founder and chief executive officer of Destination Hospitality Group, will discuss the importance of hospitality and human connections during his presentation at the annual Entrepreneurship Day luncheon set for noon May 2 at the University Center Meyer Ballroom.

Based in Steamboat Springs, Destination Hospitality Group operates restaurants and hotels in Colorado and Hawaii resorts. Armstrong brings to his role more than 25 years of industry experience.

The Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award will be presented at Entrepreneurship Day. The award recognizes individuals who’ve contributed to the economic development of the region.

Nomination letters will be accepted through April 10. To be eligible for the Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award, a nominee must have started a business or taken one to a significant new level, experienced at least three years of successful operations, contributed to regional economic development and exemplify entrepreneurial values.

Nominations should emailed to Foundation@coloradomesa.edu or mailed to Excellence in Entrepreneurship Committee, Davis School of Business, Attention Carlos Baldo, Colorado Mesa University, 1100 North Ave., Grand Junction, CO 81501. For more information, call (970) 248-1902

Individual tickets for the luncheon event sell for $65. Table sponsorships are available for $650, and hospitality sponsorships for $1,200. For tickets or additional information, visit the website at

https://engage.supportingcmu.org/event/2024-entrepreneurship-day/e557904.