The Iowa Restaurant Association released its 2021 “40 Women to Watch in Hospitality” list this week. More than 100 nominations of women who work across the state were submitted. Honorees will be featured in Food and Beverage Iowa Business Quarterly and recognized at the Iowa Restaurant Association’s annual Celebrating Excellence Awards Ceremony on Nov. 15 at the Iowa Events Center. “Many of this year’s honorees are pictures of resilience,” Jessica Dunker, president and CEO of the Iowa Restaurant Association, said in a press release. “Many started cottage businesses in the midst of the pandemic. Others took extraordinary steps to save long-standing family ventures, while others were innovators within the context of an organizational role. Every single one understands her role as a mentor and encourager to other women. Each exemplifies the multitude of opportunities hospitality holds for women.” A full list of honorees can be found on the Iowa Restaurant Association’s website.