AHLA Foundation Announces Leadership for 2024: New Officers and Trustees Aim to Empower Hotel Industry Workforce

The AHLA Foundation, the philanthropic extension of the American Hotel and Lodging Association, has unveiled its lineup of officers and Board of Trustees for 2024. This announcement marks a significant step towards broadening the representation of different industry segments within the board, reinforcing the foundation’s commitment to supporting the vibrant community that forms the backbone of the hospitality sector.

Julienne Smith, the Chief Development Officer for the Americas at IHG Hotels & Resorts, has been named the Chair of the Board, taking over from Tom Bardenett, the Chief Operating Officer and EVP of RLJ Lodging Trust. Bardenett will continue to contribute his expertise as the Immediate Past Chair. The foundation’s leadership team is further strengthened with Anu Saxena, President and Global Head of Hilton Supply Management, stepping in as Vice Chair, and Jonathan Stanner, President & CEO of Summit Hotel Properties, serving as Secretary/Treasurer.

Expressing her enthusiasm for her new role, Julienne Smith highlighted the foundation’s core mission: “I am thrilled and honored to step into the role as Chair of the AHLA Foundation. The Foundation’s work focuses on the single most important thing in our industry – supporting our people, who are the heart of our hotels and who make hospitality a fantastic career path.”

The 2024 board sees the addition of three distinguished members, aiming to infuse fresh perspectives and drive further innovation in support of the hotel workforce. New trustees include Amber Asher, CEO of Standard International; Kevin Osterhaus, President of Graduate Hotels; and Harry Javer, Founder & President of The Conference Bureau.

Anna Blue, President of the AHLA Foundation, underscored the foundation’s dedication to the industry’s workforce, stating, “Supporting the hotel workforce, the people at the heart of this industry, is at the center of AHLA Foundation’s work. Our Board plays a vital role in advancing our mission, and the leadership and guidance of these industry leaders will set the stage for deeper impact and even greater reach.”

The appointment of these new officers and trustees signifies a promising year ahead for the AHLA Foundation. With a focused mission on empowering the people within the hotel and lodging industry, the foundation is poised to create more opportunities, foster career development, and ensure the growth and sustainability of the hospitality sector.