20 Under 40: Liz Tate

Mereté Hotel Management

It is an honor to be selected as a 20 under 40 rising business star award recipient. To be recognized as someone who has had a positive impact in their industry and community is humbling beyond words.
My passion for the hospitality and tourism industry started when I began working at a resort in my hometown. I had the unique experience of growing up on a Reservation in a rural community which taught me that hard work will get you where you want to go, to never take your community or the help of others for granted and that you have a right to be here and to celebrate who you are and where you are from. These lessons have guided me through every obstacle, challenge, and success and is part of my work life philosophy to this day.
Working in the hospitality industry for over 15 years has taught me empathy, patience, kindness and resilience. I’ve had the privilege of working with Mereté Hotel Management for 10 of those years and I’m fortunate that they’ve also supported and encouraged me with all my endeavors including participating the University of Oregon’s Women’s Innovation Network and completing a certificate program through ASU for Sustainable Tourism for Native Nations and Communities. I hope to someday be a resource to Native Communities in the hospitality and tourism space in the future.
The Eugene-Springfield business community is full of supportive and dedicated individuals who want to see our towns flourish. I’m inspired by the work that I see my mentors and peers doing and it is what has encouraged me to keep volunteering, keep showing up and to give back whenever possible.