In addition to the club and entertainer awards that we typically present during the ED Awards Show at EXPO (voted on by the industry), we’ve introduced several ED “Honors” Awards that will acknowledge specific individuals who have made a significant contribution to the industry at large. These nominees were gathered in large part from the pre-nomination voting process at theEDawards.com; the winners of these awards will be decided by the ED Honors Board. They are presented here in alphabetical order.
Criteria: Progressive Leader of the Year Award
The Progressive Leader of the Year Award will honor the leaders pushing their teams forward and navigating them toward success. This award seeks to recognize the leaders who are guiding their club, and perhaps the industry, in a whole new direction.
Shawn Barnes, General Manager, Scarlett’s Cabaret, Miami
Testimonial: Shawn’s leadership and commitment to the Scarlett’s brand is second to none. He exemplifies what it means to be a leader, teacher and mentor to not only his staff but the entertainers as well. Shawn works to the bone, day in and day out and is great at instilling that same mentality in his staff. Shawn is the ultimate professional whose big heart and empathy towards his team and entertainers keep him going above and beyond for anyone who needs any assistance from him. A tireless and passionate worker, Shawn is the example we at Scarlett’s strive to emulate and the leader we refuse to let down.
Mike Dickinson, Regional Manager, The Pony Clubs
Testimonial: In an industry that evolves at lightning speed, Michael not only keeps pace—he sets the tone. Michael has consistently demonstrated a visionary approach to entertainment leadership. He is the rare kind of innovator who understands both cultural trends and business strategy, blending them into bold, attention-grabbing moves that elevate not only his venues but the entire conversation around adult entertainment. His fearless and creative response to trending moments in pop culture has become a hallmark of his leadership.
Michael is consistently tuned into our markets, monitoring trends in music, fashion, sports, and digital culture to keep our venues at the forefront of the industry. He inspires the people around him to embrace change, push boundaries, and think like disruptors—not just managers. In a business where many cling to tradition, Michael thrives on relevance. He leads with a sense of fun, a pulse on what’s hot, and a respect for the craft of performance that sets a new standard for what leadership can look like in this space.
Miguel Gonzalez, General Manager, Bucks Wild, Dallas
Testimonial: He is a true leader. After taking over in a time where the Dallas market was going crazy with all kinds of people moving to different cities and leaving the clubs in town short-handed — not to mention the terrible laws and restrictions that have severely harmed the Dallas clubs — Miguel took over Bucks Wild Dallas and ran straight ahead. Keeping his calm under complete panic, he never once wavered. He’s leading his club in Dallas into the future and beyond. He s a real GM who cares about his entire club from the ground up.
Dave Peacock, General Manager, Platinum 84, Denver
Testimonial: Dave works tirelessly to try and create a successful environment in our industry. He takes time to explain strategy and the “why” of what we do to every position in the building. He has a zen-like calmness that rarely changes, yes somehow is in 20 places at once typically solving problems before anyone knows they exist. He holds all of us to a higher standard than we hold ourselves and genuinely believes we can be and do better even on our worst days. There’s a joke at Platinum 84 that letting down Dave feels like disappointing your Dad, and honestly it feels good to have someone like that here. He’s never scared to get his hands dirty doing any job, and he’s never too busy to help or give advice to anyone with anything going on in their life. He’s just genuinely the best and a good person and I feel like that’s very rare in this industry.
Oscar Perdomo, General Manager, The Men’s Club, Dallas
Testimonial: When success hinges on adaptability, vision, and leadership under pressure, Oscar Perdomo stands as a true trailblazer. As the General Manager of The Men’s Club Dallas, Oscar has not only upheld the high standards of the club he’s actively redefined what leadership looks like in adult nightlife. Oscar leads with clarity, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to both his team and the guest experience. Under his guidance, The Men’s Club Dallas has experienced a significant cultural and operational shift one that balances modern business strategies with the club’s signature luxury appeal. He’s helped foster a more cohesive, motivated team, where every department from servers and dancers to management and support staff functions with synergy and pride. What truly sets Oscar apart is his progressive approach to leadership. He’s not afraid to try new methods, empower his staff, or make bold decisions in the name of growth and evolution. From elevating service standards to encouraging internal innovation, Oscar ensures his team isn’t just performing they’re thriving.
Marcelo Troilio, District Manager, Spearmint Rhino
Testimonial: With over 30 years of unwavering commitment to Spearmint Rhino, Marcelo Troilio is the epitome of loyalty and leadership. Rising through the ranks from club manager to general manager to district manager, Marcelo now oversees multiple venues across California with unmatched professionalism and care. A true steward of the brand, he is known for his hands-on leadership style, ability to inspire, and deep-rooted dedication to both the company and the teams he mentors. Marcelo’s influence is felt company-wide through his positive energy, strategic guidance, and the deep loyalty he earns from everyone around him.
Ashlie Gorton Williams, Corporate GM, the Treasure Clubs
Testimonial: Starting at the bottom as an assistant manager, Ashlie Gorton Williams worked her way up by proving her ability to lead. She takes pride in ensuring every club maintains its unique identity while upholding a consistent corporate philosophy. She has been an influence in the industry for years and holds the entire business together and make it work seamlessly at the Treasure Clubs. She has brought significant growth to these clubs and is an extremely innovative, savvy businesswoman! She is responsible for four locations and is a great corporate leader.
