Congratulations, Berk Tanal!
Berk Tanal of Group Services DMC was selected as the second-quarter winner of Discover Puerto Rico’s Service Excellence Recognition Program. His nomination highlighted his leadership, dedication, and commitment throughout the planning and execution of the PCMA Business Events Summit 2026, as well as his ability to anticipate needs and find solutions at every stage of the program.
Joy Westheimer Walsh, Director of Events and Experiences at PCMA, who nominated Berk, highlighted his willingness to go above and beyond expectations and his professionalism throughout every stage of the program. “His tireless work ethic, attention to detail, and genuine commitment to people reflect the essence of service excellence and made him a fundamental partner throughout the entire event,” said Westheimer Walsh.
Launched in January 2026, the program recognizes service excellence within the hospitality industry and highlights its importance as an essential part of the experience for visitors traveling to the island for meetings and conventions.
During the second quarter, 16 nominations were received, bringing the total to 44 nominations during the program’s first six months. Beyond simply fulfilling a request, the professionals recognized stood out for building trust through consistent service, paying attention to details, anticipating needs, and responding proactively to challenges. Their actions demonstrate that excellence is reflected not only in how clients feel throughout their experience, but also in the ability to deliver, solve challenges, and actively contribute to the success of their programs.
Nominations have also been received for multiple employees within the same company, reflecting a culture of service excellence across different teams and levels of the organization.
The professionals nominated during the second quarter were:
Alejandra Berríos, Casa Bacardí; Andrew Smith, Wyndham Grand Rio Mar; Bárbara Salas, Dragonfly Global Destination Services; Berk Tanal, Group Services DMC; Claudia Lorenz, Caribe Hilton; Emmy Carrasquillo, Castillo Tours DMC; Evy García, Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Rainforest Beach & Golf Resort; Félix Pérez, Bespoke Lifestyle Management; Gia Montalvo, Spoon; Jackelyn Langa, Destination Puerto Rico; Joel Burgos, Sheraton Puerto Rico Resort & Casino; Lorna Zayas, Spoon; Marisabel Millán, El Conquistador Resort; Steven Marrero, Sheraton Puerto Rico Resort & Casino; Yaiván Moreira, Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico; and Yajaira Hernández, Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico.
Six months into its implementation, the Service Excellence Recognition Program reaffirms that while properties, experiences, and attractions are essential to the destination’s offering, it is the people who bring them to life. Excellence in every interaction strengthens meeting planners’ confidence, leaves a lasting impression, and contributes to their decision to choose Puerto Rico again for their programs.