At Escape Lodging, we often say that hospitality begins with people. It’s reflected in the way we welcome our guests, support one another, and serve the communities we call home. This spring, that commitment was recognized in a very special way.
We are incredibly proud to celebrate our President, Shaun Wagner, who was honored as the 2026 Clatsop Economic Development Resources (CEDR) Business Leader of the Year – Large Business.
While awards recognize individuals, anyone who has worked alongside Shaun knows that his leadership has always been about the people around him.
Over the past decade, Shaun has helped guide Escape Lodging through tremendous growth and change. Today, he oversees the operations of 16 properties and more than 600 team members. Through every new opportunity and every challenge, he has led with a calm, steady approach that builds confidence, earns trust, and keeps our teams moving forward together.
His leadership isn’t measured only by strong business performance—it’s reflected in the culture he helps create.
Shaun believes in developing people, creating opportunities for growth, and building teams where individuals feel supported, valued, and empowered to succeed. Many of the leaders throughout Escape Lodging began their journeys in different roles and advanced because someone believed in their potential. Shaun has always been intentional about creating those opportunities.
His impact extends beyond our organization as well. Shaun serves on the Clatsop County Planning Commission, is an active member of Seaside Rotary, and contributes to the Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association Member Services Board, continuing his commitment to strengthening both our industry and our communities.
Those who nominated Shaun described him as steady, humble, caring, resilient, and someone who quietly brings people, properties, and purpose into alignment. We couldn’t agree more.
At Escape Lodging, our Core Values—Family, Fun, Relationships, Heart & Passion, and Hospitality with Courage & Character—are more than words on a wall. They are lived every day through leaders like Shaun, whose example inspires all of us to be better teammates, better hosts, and better community partners.
Congratulations, Shaun!
Congratulations, Shaun, on this well-deserved recognition. Thank you for the leadership, integrity, and heart you bring to Escape Lodging every single day. We are proud to celebrate this achievement with you.