Palm Beach Atlantic University recognized Bob L. Moss, chairman and founder of Moss & Associates, as a companion medalist during its 41st annual American Free Enterprise Day event. The ceremony also honored Sarah J. Wetenhall as a companion medalist and Thomas Peterffy as the lead medalist.
Bob L. Moss’s early experience in construction began with his father’s business in Charlotte, North Carolina. After his father died unexpectedly, Moss worked through community college and held various jobs to gain skills in the field. He eventually became Chairman and CEO of Centex Construction Group before founding Moss & Associates with his sons in 2004. The company has grown from two employees into a national firm involved in sectors such as hospitality, healthcare, education, transportation, sports, and mixed-use development.
Moss & Associates has also developed a presence in renewable energy projects. In 2024, Engineering News-Record named the company Contractor of the Year for the Southeast region and ranked it as the top solar contractor nationally.
During a question-and-answer session at the award ceremony on November 13, Moss explained his leadership philosophy: “The basic foundation of our business is, treat people the way we want to be treated,” he said. “In essence, work hard, be nice, and have fun.”
Sarah J. Wetenhall was recognized for her leadership in transforming The Colony Palm Beach hotel after she and her husband purchased it in 2016. Despite challenges that included managing operations during peak season while raising three children, Wetenhall led efforts to restore and reposition the historic property through design initiatives and partnerships.
Wetenhall said about taking on this role: “It was a moment of profound uncertainty,” she reflected. “But Andrew and I had spent our twenties visiting The Colony; we knew its soul, its history, and its extraordinary possibility. And hearing my father-in-law speak of his years owning the hotel as the best of his life gave us a sense of purpose. In the end, the leap felt less like a risk and more like answering a calling.”
Her approach emphasized maintaining authenticity while updating guest experiences: “Anything meaningful requires stepping into the unknown,” Wetenhall said. “The journey isn’t linear, but the most transformative growth emerges in the challenging moments. Hold fast to your identity, define your intention, and honor the legacy that has shaped your path.”
Under her guidance over nine years, The Colony has received recognition such as being named Number One Hotel in Florida by Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List and Number Two Hotel by Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best list.
Beyond Palm Beach, Wetenhall manages The Hedges East Hampton hotel in New York state. Her work has been acknowledged with several awards including the Palm Beach Chamber of Commerce Women in Leadership Award for 2025.
For more information about American Free Enterprise Day or upcoming events at Palm Beach Atlantic University open to community members visit pba.edu.
