LOS ANGELES—The Americas Lodging Investment Summit kicked off in style last night—544 days after the last time the industry gathered at this event—with the Night of a Thousand Stars event. The program, hosted by the American Hotel & Lodging Association and the AHLA Foundation, honored winners in several categories and raised money for the Foundations goals.
The event raised more than $150,000 during the event, more than double the goal.
During the event, Chip Rogers, president of the AHLA; Greg Juceam, president and COO of G6 Hospitality and chair of the board of trustees for the AHLA; and Jeff Higley, president of The BHN Group, which hosts ALIS, announced the formation of the Arne Sorenson Social Impact Leadership Award.
Sorenson, the former president and CEO of Marriott International and longtime industry leader, died earlier this year.
“Arne’s dedication to having a positive social impact at every level of the industry was incomparable,” Higley said. “He further humanized a people industry and made it stronger through his actions. We want Arne’s legacy and spirit to live on as we seek to recognize those who, like Arne, have great ambition to make the world’s greatest industry even better.”
The award will be presented annually starting in January 2022 at the next ALIS.
“The award will be given to an industry professional who demonstrates extraordinary efforts to advance positive societal change and make the lodging industry and the world more hospitable,” Rogers said. “
Honorees
Several individuals and teams were honored during the evening for the outstanding service they offer to guests and the industry every day:
- North Star Award: James “Jimbo” Leahy, door attendant, Boston Marriott Long Wharf
- Paving the Way Award: Vanessa Stanley, VP, new builds & transitions, PM Hotel Group
- General Manager of the Year (Large Property): David Piscola, Hilton New Orleans Riverside
- General Manager of the Year (Small Property): Michael Porter, Motel 6 St. Paul (Minn.).
- Steven Porter Emerging Hospitality Leader of the Year Award: Siji John, front-office manager, Hyatt Regency Orlando
The groups also honored Tiffany Holland, front-desk supervisor at the Microtel Inn & Suites, for her dedication in undertaking the Lodging Manager Apprenticeship Program during the pandemic.
