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# AHLA Foundation

## Sitemaps
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## Posts
- [AHLA Foundation Awards More Than $800,000 in Academic Scholarships to 256 Students Nationwide  ](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-awards-more-than-800000-in-academic-scholarships-to-256-students-nationwide/): Scholarships Support Future Hospitality Leaders at 78 Colleges and Universities 
- [AHLA Foundation Names Jagruti Panwala as 2026 Peggy Berg Castell Award Recipient](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-names-jagruti-panwala-as-2026-peggy-berg-castell-award-recipient/): Honor Recognizes Women Trailblazers in the Hospitality Industry
- [AHLA Foundation Unites Survivor Advocates, Government Experts, and Hotel Industry Leaders to Advance Lasting Solutions to Prevent Human Trafficking](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-unites-survivor-advocates-government-experts-and-hotel-industry-leaders-to-advance-lasting-solutions-to-prevent-human-trafficking/): Survivor Fund Reaches $10 Million Milestone to Expand Efforts to Build Awareness, Promote Prevention, and Support Victims
- [AHLA Foundation Expands No Room for Trafficking Initiative Through New Partnership with Hotels Canada](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-expands-no-room-for-trafficking-initiative-through-new-partnership-with-hotels-canada/): Gerrod Bede, General Counsel of Red Roof, appointed as Co-Chair of NRFT Advisory Council
- [AHLA & AHLA Foundation Now Accepting Nominations for Hotel Industry Awards](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-ahla-foundation-now-accepting-nominations-for-hotel-industry-awards/): Hoteliers, property leaders, educators, and industry peers are encouraged to submit nominations to highlight excellence across all levels of hospitality
- [FORWARD/26 Draws Record-Breaking Attendance, Showcasing the Future of Hospitality Leadership](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/forward-26-draws-record-breaking-attendance-showcasing-the-future-of-hospitality-leadership/): Sold-out gathering of 1,000+ hospitality professionals spotlighted bold leadership, meaningful dialogue, and momentum reshaping the industry 
- [AHLA Foundation Recognizes Leaders Accelerating Women’s Career Advancement](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-recognizes-leaders-accelerating-womens-career-advancement/): Paving the Way and Ally of the Year awards announced at FORWARD/26 spotlight those breaking barriers and committed to advancing women in hospitality 
- [Hilton, Hyatt and IHG Hotels & Resorts Create Modernized, Updated Human Trafficking Prevention Training ](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/hilton-hyatt-and-ihg-hotels-resorts-create-modernized-updated-human-trafficking-prevention-training/): Training Made Available to the Industry at No Cost, Underscoring Hospitality’s Longstanding Commitment to Preventing Human Trafficking 
- [American Hotel & Lodging Association and AHLA Foundation Announce 2026 Stars of the Industry Winners](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/american-hotel-lodging-association-and-ahla-foundation-announce-2026-stars-of-the-industry-winners/): Awards recognize on-property hospitality professionals including emerging scholars, guest services agents, maintenance teams, and rising leaders
- [AHLA Foundation Announces 2026 Board of Trustees](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-announces-2026-board-of-trustees/): Anu Saxena, Hilton Supply Management President, to serve second term as board chair 
- [AHLA Foundation Awards More Than $700,000 in Academic Scholarships to 246 Students Nationwide](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-awards-more-than-700000-in-academic-scholarships-to-246-students-nationwide/): Financial Support Represents an Investment in the Future Leaders of the Hospitality Industry
- [AHLA Foundation Names Marriott CFO and EVP, Development Leeny Oberg As 2025 Peggy Berg Castell Award Recipient](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-names-marriott-cfo-and-evp-development-leeny-oberg-as-2025-peggy-berg-castell-award-recipient/): Honor Recognizes Women Trailblazers in the Hospitality Industry
- [AHLA Foundation Bridges Higher Education and Industry Commitment Through Strategic Partnerships with ICHRIE and ACPHA](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-bridges-higher-education-and-industry-commitment-through-strategic-partnerships-with-ichrie-and-acpha/): AHLA Foundation Bridges Higher Education and Industry Commitment Through Strategic Partnerships with ICHRIE and ACPHA
- [AHLA Foundation Unites Human Trafficking Survivors, Experts and Hotel Industry Leaders to Advance Lasting Solutions](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-unites-human-trafficking-survivors-experts-and-hotel-industry-leaders-to-advance-lasting-solutions/): No Room for Trafficking Summit Focuses on Collaboration and Grant-Making to Build Awareness and Promote Prevention Efforts
- [Power Takes the Stage in Atlanta at FORWARD/25](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/power-takes-the-stage-in-atlanta-at-forward-conference-2025/): From packed sessions to powerful conversations, this year’s event proved ForWard is more than a conference — it’s changing the face of hospitality leadership.
- [AHLA Appoints Kevin Carey as AHLA Foundation President and CEO](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-appoints-kevin-carey-as-ahla-foundation-president-and-ceo/): WASHINGTON (March 3, 2025) – The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) today announced the appointment of Kevin Carey to serve as the AHLA Foundation’s President and CEO effective immediately.  Carey, who will continue to serve as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of AHLA, succeeds Anna Blue, who announced her departure in February.
- [AHLA Foundation Raises +$1,000,000 At Annual Gala](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-raises-1000000-at-annual-gala/): In solidarity with the Los Angeles community, AHLA and AHLA Foundation will match donations to Red Cross and LA Fire Department Foundation on behalf of hotel industry
- [AHLA Foundation Announces 2025 Board of Trustees](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-announces-2025-board-of-trustees/): WASHINGTON (January 21, 2025) – AHLA Foundation today announced its 2025 Board of Trustees, welcoming Anu Saxena as the new chair. Saxena, who serves as the President of Hilton Supply Management, will champion the Foundation's mission to support the hotel industry's workforce through innovative programs, research, and career development initiatives.
- [AHLA Foundation Awards Hospitality Scholarships for 2025](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-awards-hospitality-scholarships-for-2025/): Nearly one million dollars in scholarship awards to support the next generation of hospitality leaders
- [Sheila Johnson to Receive Peggy Berg Castell Award at The Lodging Conference 2024](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/sheila-johnson-to-receive-peggy-berg-castell-award-at-the-lodging-conference-2024/): WASHINGTON (Sept. 5, 2024) – AHLA Foundation announced today that trailblazing entrepreneur and hotelier Sheila Johnson will receive the Peggy Berg Castell Award at The Lodging Conference 2024 in Phoenix, Arizona in October. The award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to elevating and advancing women in the hospitality industry.
- [AHLA Foundation Announces 2024 – 2025 No Room for Trafficking Survivor Fund Grantees](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-announces-2024-2025-no-room-for-trafficking-survivor-fund-grantees/): $1M awarded across eight community-based organizations  
- [AHLA Foundation Announces Third Annual No Room for Trafficking Summit](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-announces-third-annual-no-room-for-trafficking-summit/): Highlights first year of Survivor Fund grantee impact on nearly 650 human trafficking survivors
- [AHLA Foundation Hosts FORWARD/24 to Advance Women in Hospitality ](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-hosts-annual-forward-conference-to-advance-women-in-hospitality/): 2024 event boasted record attendance  
- [AHLA Foundation Expands Program to Support HBCU Students Pursuing Hospitality Careers ](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-expands-program-to-support-hbcu-students-pursuing-hospitality-careers/): The travel scholarship program, supported by a grant from the Nareit Foundation, will increase student exposure to commercial real estate career pathways 
- [AHLA Foundation Announces 2024 Board of Trustees ](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-announces-2024-board-of-trustees/): WASHINGTON (March 18, 2024) – AHLA Foundation, the charitable arm of the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA), today announced its 2024 officers and Board of Trustees, further diversifying the board’s representation of industry segments. 
- [REPORT: Hospitality Careers Are in Demand, Outpacing National Projected Growth](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/report-hospitality-careers-are-in-demand-outpacing-national-projected-growth/): Over the next five years, demand for hotel industry jobs projected to be 50% higher than national average 
- [AHLA Foundation Hosts 6th Annual Gala to Celebrate Hotel Workforce](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-hosts-6th-annual-gala-to-celebrate-hotel-workforce/): Industry’s top honor presented to The Nonantum Resort’s Colby Bracy, Mark Hoplamazian of Hyatt receives 3rd annual Arne Sorenson Social Impact Leadership Award
- [AHLA Foundation Launches New Scholarship Application Portal for Hospitality Students Nationwide ](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-launches-new-scholarship-application-portal-for-hospitality-students-nationwide/): The new platform will allow increased access to scholarship opportunities, supporting the future of hospitality and diversifying the talent pipeline.
- [AHLA Foundation Appoints Leticia Proctor to Board of Trustees](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-appoints-leticia-proctor-to-board-of-trustees/): WASHINGTON (December 12, 2023) – The AHLA Foundation recently selected Donohoe Hospitality Services Executive Vice President Leticia Proctor to serve as an honorary member on the Foundation’s Board of Trustees.
- [AHLA Foundation Renews Apprenticeship Contract with U.S. Department of Labor  ](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-renews-apprenticeship-contract-with-u-s-department-of-labor/): For a sixth year, the contract will increase the number of available apprenticeships in the hotel and lodging industry 
- [AHLA Foundation Names Jessica Janis as an Honorary Trustee](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-names-jessica-janis-as-an-honorary-trustee/): WASHINGTON (November 9, 2023) – The AHLA Foundation today announced that Jessica Janis, Director and Practice Leader, Hospitality at Corning Optical Communications LLC, has been selected to serve on the Foundation Board of Trustees as an honorary member.
- [AHLA Foundation Receives Grant from Conrad N. Hilton Foundation to Advance Opportunity Youth into Hospitality Industry](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-receives-grant-from-conrad-n-hilton-foundation-to-advance-opportunity-youth-into-hospitality-industry/): Through the Empowering Youth Program, AHLA Foundation aims to bridge the hiring gap in the hotel sector 
- [REPORT: Hotel Boards Are Becoming Increasingly Diverse](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/report-hotel-boards-are-becoming-increasingly-diverse/): Increase in women and Black board directors signals progress in the effort to diversify corporate boards across the hotel industry 
- [AHLA Foundation Names Julienne Smith As 2023 Peggy Berg Castell Award Recipient](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-names-julienne-smith-as-2023-peggy-berg-castell-award-recipient/):  The award recognizes women leaders in hospitality
- [AHLA Foundation Announces Expansion of Initiatives Aimed at Elevating Women in Hospitality](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-announces-expansion-of-initiatives-aimed-at-elevating-women-in-hospitality/):  ForWard reflects the industry’s commitment to investing in talent, creating a platform to increase the representation of women in leadership positions  
- [More Than One Million Anti-Human Trafficking Trainings Completed By Hotel Industry Employees ](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/more-than-one-million-anti-human-trafficking-trainings-completed-by-hotel-industry-employees/): The trainings, funded by the AHLA Foundation, are part of an ongoing industry-wide initiative to combat human trafficking 
- [AHLA FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES $500,000 IN GRANT AWARDS FROM NO ROOM FOR TRAFFICKING SURVIVOR FUND](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-announces-500000-in-grant-awards-from-no-room-for-trafficking-survivor-fund/): Inaugural grants underscore the hotel industry’s ongoing commitment and work to prevent human trafficking and support survivors
- [AHLA Foundation Establishes No Room for Trafficking Advisory Council](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-establishes-no-room-for-trafficking-advisory-council/): Council members will help guide hotel industry’s fight against human trafficking
- [Thanks to Marriott, NRFT Survivor Fund Reaches $3.4 Million](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/thanks-to-marriott-nrft-survivor-fund-reaches-3-4-million/): We are excited to share the news that The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation and Marriott International have announced a $550,000 combined contribution to AHLA Foundation’s No Room for Trafficking Survivor Fund. We are enormously grateful to Marriott for this generous contribution.
- [REPORT: Black Representation in Hotel Industry Leadership](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/report-black-representation-in-hotel-industry-leadership/): WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 29, 2023): The AHLA Foundation shares the Fourth Annual Report benchmarking "Black Representation in Hotel Industry Leadership." This research was conducted by the School of Hospitality Management at Pennsylvania State University with financial support from the AHLA Foundation and funds provided from the Walter J. Conti Visiting Professorship in the School of Hospitality Management.
- [<strong>REPORT: Women growing among hospitality leadership</strong>](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/report-women-growing-among-hospitality-leadership/): AHLA Foundation releases annual benchmark reportWASHINGTON (May 4, 2023) – Representation of women within hospitality leadership continues to increase, with women gaining some ground at the CEO and president levels, according to a new report commissioned by the AHLA Foundation and conducted by Penn State’s School of Hospitality Management.
- [AHLA Foundation Welcomes Industry Leader Daniel Peek as an Honorary Trustee](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-welcomes-industry-leader-daniel-peek-as-an-honorary-trustee/): WASHINGTON (April 20, 2023) – The AHLA Foundation today announced that Daniel Peek, president and chief operating officer of Hodges Ward Elliott, has been selected to serve on its Board of Trustees as an honorary member.
- [IHG Hotels & Resorts Donates $500,000 to AHLA Foundation Human Trafficking Survivor Fund](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ihg-hotels-resorts-donates-500000-to-ahla-foundation-human-trafficking-survivor-fund/): No Room for Trafficking Survivor Fund Grows Its Impact with Over $2 Million in Total Donations
- [Record Night at 5TH Annual Hotel Industry Gala with $1.2 Million Raised](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/record-night-at-5th-annual-hotel-industry-gala-with-1-2-million-raised/): LOS ANGELES (Jan. 23, 2023) – The AHLA Foundation raised a record $1.2 million at its 5th annual gala to celebrate winners and up and coming hospitality super stars, while raising funds to support the AHLA Foundation programs that are helping the industry recruit and retain the stars of tomorrow.
- [HOTEL INDUSTRY FOUNDATION AWARDS LARGEST EVER DONATION TO BUILD TALENT PIPELINE](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/hotel-industry-foundation-awards-largest-ever-donation-to-build-talent-pipeline/): WASHINGTON (January 17, 2023) – The AHLA Foundation is granting $370,000 to community-based organizations that help change the lives of Opportunity Youth – individuals between 16-24 who are out of school and looking for work—by preparing them for future hotel careers as part of the Empowering Youth Program (EYP). The initiative continues to bring together hotels and local community-based organizations to train Opportunity Youth and set them up for success for jobs in hospitality.
- [AHLA & AHLA FOUNDATION HONOR NATIONAL HUMAN TRAFFICKING PREVENTION MONTH & ANNOUNCE MAJOR SURVIVOR FUND DONATION](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-ahla-foundation-honor-national-human-trafficking-prevention-month-announce-major-survivor-fund-donation/): No Room for Trafficking Expands Impact with Latest $500,000 Contribution to The Survivor Fund from Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
- [AHLA NAMES ANNA BLUE PRESIDENT OF AHLA FOUNDATION, JACQUELINE POLICASTRO EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-names-anna-blue-president-of-ahla-foundation-jacqueline-policastro-executive-vice-president-of-marketing-communications/): WASHINGTON (January 9, 2023) – The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), the singular voice representing every segment of the hotel industry, today announced two leadership additions to the association and its charitable giving affiliate. Anna Blue has been named President of the AHLA Foundation and Jacqueline Policastro has been appointed Executive Vice President of Marketing & Communications.
- [HILTON GLOBAL FOUNDATION DONATION GROWS INDUSTRY TRAFFICKING SURVIVOR FUND BY 50%](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-352/): WASHINGTON (October 27, 2022) – The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) today announced a $500,000 donation from Hilton Global Foundation to support the No Room for Trafficking (NRFT) Survivor Fund as part of the hotel industry’s united efforts to eradicate human trafficking.
- [AHLA FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH U.S. JOB CORPS TO ATTRACT HOTEL EMPLOYEES](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-349/): WASHINGTON (September 20, 2022) – The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLAF) announced today a formal partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Job Corps – first of its kind for Job Corps and for the hospitality industry at large – to ignite the hospitality workforce. With 130,000 open jobs in hospitality, this new partnership’s engagement and retention initiatives will help fill these positions with the highly skilled, ready-to-work Job Corps students enrolled in hospitality and related training programs.    
- [HOTEL INDUSTRY FOUNDATION AWARDS OVER $1 MILLION IN ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS TO HOSPITALITY STUDENTS NATIONWIDE](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-345/): WASHINGTON (September 6, 2022) – The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) awarded over $1 million to 336 hospitality program participants for the 2022-23 academic school year.
- [AHLA Foundation Issues 2022 Report on Diversity of Hotel Industry’s Public Company Boards](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-344/): WASHINGTON (August 2, 2022) – The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLAF) – a philanthropic organization that aims to elevate, educate and empower the hospitality workforce – today released the 2022 “Diversity of Hospitality Industry Public Boards” research report.  Aiming to create an industry “as diverse as the guests we serve,” this research aligns with AHLA’s 5-year, $5 million commitment to advance DE&I across the hospitality arena.
- [HOTEL INDUSTRY LAUNCHES FREE TRAFFICKING PREVENTION TRAINING TO MARK WORLD DAY AGAINST TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-342/): WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 29, 2022) – To mark World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, today the American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation), ECPAT-USA and Marriott International launched a trafficking prevention training program for the hotel industry, titled “Recognize and Respond: Addressing Human Trafficking in the Hospitality Industry.” This new training program was developed by Marriott in collaboration with non-profit organizations and survivor experts. The program was donated by Marriott to ECPAT-USA and is now free and available to the hotel industry through ECPAT-USA’s online learning platform thanks to the support of the AHLA Foundation.
- [AHLA Foundation Hosts No Room For Trafficking Summit](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-hosts-no-room-for-trafficking-summit/): No Room For Trafficking is an AHLA Foundation program that builds on the industry’s ongoing commitment and work to end human trafficking by supporting economic stability for survivors while continuing to advance training and education for employees to prevent and respond to human trafficking within the industry. 
- [G6 HOSPITALITY AND EXTENDED STAY AMERICA DONATE $500,000 TO AHLA FOUNDATION HUMAN TRAFFICKING SURVIVOR FUND](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-337/): WASHINGTON (July 11, 2022) – Today the American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) announced that two leading hospitality companies G6 Hospitality and Extended Stay America have donated a combined $500,000 to the “No Room for Trafficking Survivors Fund.” 
- [AHLA FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES $500,000 DONATION FROM HYATT HOTELS FOUNDATION TO LAUNCH TRAFFICKING SURVIVOR FUND](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-336/): WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 11, 2022) – Today the American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) announced a $500,000 donation from the Hyatt Hotels Foundation to launch the “No Room for Trafficking Survivors Fund” and expand the hotel industry’s ongoing work to support human trafficking prevention and survivors. 
- [HOTEL INDUSTRY FOUNDATION RECOGNIZES LESLIE D. HALE WITH CASTELL AWARD](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-335/): WASHINGTON (July 6, 2022) – The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLAF) announced today that Leslie D. Hale – president and chief executive officer of RLJ Lodging Trust and vice chair of the AHLA Board of Directors – is the recipient of the third annual Castell Award honoring a female trailblazer in the hospitality investment arena. 
- [HOTEL INDUSTRY FOUNDATION INCREASES INVESTMENT IN NATIONAL AD CAMPAIGN TO ATTRACT MORE WORKERS AS RECORD TRAVEL SEASON APPROACHES](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/foundation%20increases%20investment%20in%20national%20ad%20campaign/): WASHINGTON (June 29, 2022) – With 69% of Americans planning to travel this summer and the July 4 holiday weekend quickly approaching, the American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) is doubling its investment and expanding its nationwide ad campaign to more than a dozen markets this month.
- [AHLA FOUNDATION BOLSTERS EFFORT TO ADDRESS LABOR SHORTAGE THROUGH EMPOWERING YOUTH PROGRAM](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/empoweringyouthprogramgrowth/): WASHINGTON (May 12, 2022) – The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) today announced that more than 50 individuals from traditionally underserved populations have graduated from the Empowering Youth Program (EYP) nationwide and are securing jobs in the hotel industry.  
- [DE&I BEST PRACTICES GUIDE & WEBINARS](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-327/): ​The AHLA Foundation has reached a brand-new milestone on behalf of the industry’s 5-year DE&I commitment by revealing the inaugural version of an industry blueprint, called the DE&I Best Practices Guide – a resource to help start or accelerate your Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I) journey.
- [AHLA FOUNDATION TAPS ANTI-HUMAN TRAFFICKING EXPERT TO SPEARHEAD AWARENESS PROGRAM](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-324/): WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 2, 2022) – The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) today announced that anti-human trafficking professional Eliza McCoy will join the organization as Vice President of Awareness and Prevention Programs. In this newly created position, McCoy will build on the momentum of the organization’s No Room For Trafficking campaign to ensure every hotel employee is trained to spot and stop trafficking.
- [AHLA FOUNDATION, CASTELL PROJECT ANNOUNCE MERGER](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-316/): ATLANTA (March 22, 2022) - The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), the AHLA Foundation, and the Castell Project today announced a merger, with Castell officially becoming part of the AHLA Foundation. 
- [AHLA FOUNDATION RAISES OVER $845,000 WITH RECORD NIGHT AT 2022 GALA](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/nots2022gala/): LOS ANGELES (January 24, 2022) – The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) raised over a record $845,000 at its annual gala to fund programs aimed at grooming and growing a diverse industry workforce. 
 
Each year, the Night of A Thousand Stars gala celebrates the hotel industry’s most important VIPs – the property-level talent that makes the industry so unique. Throughout the evening, industry leaders commemorated the 2022 Stars of the Industry Award winners and the diverse individuals that embody the spirit of hospitality, while raising critical funds to support Foundation programs.
 
“As a mission-driven organization, we are motivated by the overwhelming support we have received tonight, especially as our industry still continues to recover from the pandemic,” said Rosanna Maietta, President and CEO of the AHLA Foundation. “On behalf of the industry, we have launched an ambitious nationwide ad campaign to showcase career pathways and celebrate those that call the hospitality industry home, like the award winners here tonight as we seek to address the labor shortage crippling our recovery.”
 
As part of the celebration, former President & CEO of BWH Hotel Group David Kong became the first ever recipient of the Arne Sorenson Social Impact Leadership Award for his extraordinary efforts to advance positive societal change and make the lodging industry. 
 
“Continuing Arne’s legacy, David has dedicated his life to hospitality. With more than 40 years in this industry, David exemplifies what this night is all about, achieving the American Dream and rising from a dishwasher to a global leader,” said Chip Rogers, CEO and President of AHLA. “We couldn’t think of a more perfect recipient as we seek to advance change in our industry.” 
 
The vital funds raised help Foundation beneficiaries such as Maria Anzola, current participant in the AHLA Foundation’s Lodging Manager Apprenticeship Program and Operations Manager, Homewood Suites, Katy, TX. See her story here. 
 
Several industry organizations were also central to the evening’s success including two top sponsors, IHG Hotels & Resorts and Qwick, who sponsored the event at the highest levels. 
 
“Our mission and the AHLA Foundation are similar – to empower more people to work in hospitality. That’s why Qwick is extremely proud to sponsor Night of a Thousand Stars, acknowledging the passionate individuals here tonight and supporting the AHLA Foundation’s programs to create a stronger industry workforce,” said Jamie Baxter, Co-Founder & CEO, of Presenting Sponsor Qwick.
 
“We are honored to support the AHLA Foundation as they spearhead efforts to make this great industry stronger and encourage more talented people to pursue a rewarding and long-lasting career in hospitality,” said Elie Maalouf, CEO, Americas, IHG Hotels & Resorts and Presenting Sponsor.   AHLA's 2022 Stars of the Industry winners were honored for their service to the industry:
 
NORTH STAR AWARD WINNER: 
Cavelle (CeCe) Valcin, Manager, Guest Services, Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach Resort, Clearwater Beach, FL
 
NORTH STAR AWARD FINALISTS:
Wislaine Lormil-Verger, Housekeeper, Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Disney Springs® Resort Area, Lake Buena Vista, FL
David Cox, Security Officer, Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, Los Angeles, CA
 
OUTSTANDING GENERAL MANAGER OF THE YEAR (LARGE PROPERTY):
Cate Farmer, General Manager, Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort, Hollywood, FL
 
OUTSTANDING GENERAL MANAGER OF THE YEAR (SMALL PROPERTY):
Benjamin Gray, Area General Manager - Bethany Beach Ocean Suites Residence Inn by Marriott, Hotel Bethany Beach, The Bellmoor Inn and Spa Hotel, Bethany Beach, DE
 
PAVING THE WAY AWARD:
Liz Dahlager, Executive Vice President, Mereté Hotel Management, Springfield, OR
 
STEVAN PORTER EMERGING HOSPITALITY LEADER AWARD:
Laura Butler, current Director of Housekeeping - Hyatt Centric - Faneuil Hall Boston, Director of Rooms -Canopy by Hilton Boston Downtown - Boston, MA
 
The AHLA Foundation is grateful for the support of partners who provided significant financial support to the event, including: Presenting Sponsors IHG Hotels & Resorts and Qwick, as well as Visionary Sponsors, Curator Hotel and Resort Collection, Ecolab, Encore, G6 Hospitality, and HD Supply.
 
 
- [HOTEL INDUSTRY FOUNDATION LEADS EFFORT TO ADDRESS LABOR SHORTAGE WITH NATIONAL AD CAMPAIGN](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-308/): WASHINGTON, D.C. (January 20, 2022) – As the nationwide labor shortage continues to make headlines, the AHLA Foundation (AHLAF) is launching a new, nationwide ad campaign to help fill the tens of thousands of open jobs across the country. This multi-year effort – the first of its kind for the Foundation – aims to attract job seekers and help them discover the multitude of career pathways, competitive wages, benefits and perks the industry offers, while ushering a new, diverse talent pool to the hospitality arena.  
- [AHLA FOUNDATION WELCOMES NEW 2022 BOARD OF TRUSTEES](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-306/): WASHINGTON (January 12, 2022) – The AHLA Foundation today announced its newly elected 2022 Board of Trustees, which features its most diverse board to date and includes industry trailblazers committed to advancing the Foundation’s mission to elevate, educate and empower the hospitality workforce.
- [AHLA FOUNDATION AWARDS $175,000 TO COMMUNITY GROUPS IN LOS ANGELES, NEW ORLEANS, ORLANDO, AND WASHINGTON DC TO TRAIN OPPORTUNITY YOUTH](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-304/): “Supporting our community youth by creating opportunities in the hotel industry is core to our mission at the AHLA Foundation,” said Rosanna Maietta, president, and CEO of the AHLA Foundation. “We are thrilled to partner with these organizations that work hard to uplift aspiring individuals. Together, we can provide them with a career path and help solve the work shortage in our industry.”  
- [AHLA FOUNDATION TAPS VETERAN TO LEAD HOTEL INDUSTRY’S WORKFORCE PROGRAMS](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-303/): WASHINGTON (December 13, 2021) – The AHLA Foundation today announced that Sarah Cozewith has joined the organization as Vice President of Career Development to address an ongoing and urgent focus to recruit, groom, and retain talent in the hotel industry. In this position, Cozewith will lead a dedicated team to enhance and grow the Foundation’s national workforce initiatives.
- [Hotel Industry Foundation Awarded $1 Million Conrad N. Hilton Foundation Grant](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-298/): WASHINGTON (November 10, 2021) – The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) has secured a $1 million grant from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation to attract, prepare, and retain Opportunity Youth for careers in the hospitality industry. 
- [HOTEL INDUSTRY FOUNDATION AWARDS $1 MILLION TO HOSPITALITY SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM RECIPIENTS](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-296/): WASHINGTON (October 6, 2021) – The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) awarded $1 million in scholarship funds to 376 students for the 2021/2022 academic year. Fifty of those students are part of a new scholarship program which partners with 10, 2-year hospitality programs around the country. The other 326 students are enrolled in bachelor and graduate hospitality degree programs across the United States. Since its founding, the AHLA Foundation has distributed nearly $15 million in scholarship funds to promising hospitality management students across the nation.
- [IYF LAUNCHES PASSPORT TO SUCCESS CONCIERGE TO SUPPORT YOUNG PEOPLE STARTING HOSPITALITY CAREERS](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-294/): WASHINGTON – American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLAF) applauds the launch of IYF’s Passport to Success® (PTS) Concierge, a free, mobile-optimized online course to teach young people about the hospitality industry and some of the most critical and cross-cutting soft skills for customer service. This new program, which will expand access to valuable online training, was enabled by a $1.5 million grant from the Hilton Effect Foundation. 
- [Over Half A Million Hotel Workers Trained Through Industry Human Trafficking Awareness Training](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/over-half-a-million-hotel-workers-trained-through-industry-human-trafficking-awareness-training/): The American Hotel & Lodging Association, the American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation), and ECPAT-USA today announced at a World Day Against Trafficking in Persons Awareness Event that over 500,000 hotel workers have been trained through the industry’s free human trafficking awareness training since it was released in early 2020. 
 
That number is in addition to nearly 100,000 Marriott workers, who have completed the training, “Your Role In Preventing Human Trafficking: Recognize the Signs” in 2020. The training was produced by Marriott International in collaboration with ECPAT-USA and Polaris and was made available to the industry for free with the support of the AHLA Foundation, an ECPAT-USA corporate partner in protection. 
 
“Training plays a critical role in prevention efforts and being able to train nearly 600,000 employees during such a difficult year for our industry is a testament to the industry’s commitment to human trafficking awareness and prevention,” said Chip Rogers, president and CEO of AHLA. “Our No Room for Trafficking Program sends a loud and clear message: we will not tolerate human trafficking in the hotel industry, and our commitment to training and education will continue to make a difference.”
 
Joined by Tricia Primrose, Global Chief Communications & Public Affairs Officer at Marriott International and Lori Cohen, CEO at ECPAT-USA, the event highlighted the hotel & lodging industry’s long-standing legacy and commitment to combat trafficking and featured an announcement by Marriott International to donate its new enhanced human trafficking awareness training to the industry in early 2022 to help further educate the entire hospitality industry. The event also featured a short human trafficking prevention training session showcasing Marriott’s enhanced training. 
 
“ECPAT-USA is honored to be part of this astounding achievement,” said Lori L. Cohen, CEO of ECPAT-USA. “We thank AHLA, Marriott International, and all our partners in the hotel industry who have made ending human trafficking a priority at their organizations. To have been able to make such an impact in just over a year is an incredible example of the industry’s commitment to child protection.”
 
Launched three years ago, the “No Room for Trafficking Program” was designed by AHLA and the AHLA Foundation to help unite the industry around one comprehensive approach to prevent human trafficking with the goal of training every employee in the industry. The AHLA Foundation will continue to offer additional resources to members to raise public awareness and facilitate collaboration on best practices for policies, procedures, and training to enhance our human trafficking prevention efforts. For additional resources on the No Room for Trafficking Program, visit https://www.ahlafoundation.org/human-trafficking.  
- [AHLA, Foundation Welcome The Industry Back To Annual Fundraiser](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-289/): LOS ANGELES (July 26, 2021) – The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and the American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) honored the incredible resilience of hotel employees across the country who selflessly led their teams and supported their communities during the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic. The 2021 Night of a Thousand Stars gala, which featured the introduction of two new awards, celebrated the 2021 Stars of the Industry Award winners and up and coming hospitality super stars, while raising funds to support the AHLA Foundation programs that are helping the industry recruit and retain the stars of tomorrow.
- [Hotel Industry Launches ‘Hotels Are Hiring’ Ad Campaign To Fill Open Jobs; Promote Benefits Of Working In The Industry](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-285/): WASHINGTON (July 15, 2021) – To help fill thousands of open hotel jobs and communicate the benefits of a career in the hotel industry, today the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and its charitable giving arm, the American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) announced a new advertising campaign across five major hotel markets. 
- [Hotel Industry Launches ‘Hotels Are Hiring’ Campaign In Nashville To Fill 1,600 Open Jobs,  Promote Benefits Of Working In The Industry](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/nashville-hiring-fair/): NASHVILLE, Tenn. (July 8, 2021) – In an effort to fill more than 1,600 open hotel jobs in Nashville, the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and its charitable giving arm, the American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation), are launching an ad campaign and hiring fair in Nashville to fill a host of open roles across Nashville hotel properties. 
- [Relay And The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation Launch Relay It Forward Giveback Program](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/relay-it-forward/): In exchange for every Relay purchase by a hotel, the voice-first communications software company for frontline workers will sponsor a hotel employee’s training and development in a national partnership with the AHLA Foundation’s Empowering Youth Program
- [Virtual Revenue Strategy Forum Launches](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/virtual-revenue-strategy-forum-launches/): Duetto, in partnership with Silver Hospitality Group, has revealed the first in a series of virtual Revenue Strategy Forums (RSF), designed to bring together leaders and practitioners who will examine the forces reshaping hospitality today and share innovations for navigating success through uncertainty.
- [HotelFurniture.com, Qwick Contribute To AHLA Foundation](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/hotelfuniture-com-qwick-contribute-to-ahla-foundation/): WASHINGTON (March 25, 2021) – The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) today received a commitment of $45,000 from HotelFurniture.com and Qwick to invest in the Foundation’s work to educate, elevate, and empower the next generation of hotel employees. 
- [Hotel Industry Foundation Distributes $500,000 To Hospitality Students Through The J. Willard Marriott Memorial Scholarship Fund](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/hotel-industry-foundation-distributes-500000-to-hospitality-students-through-j-w-marriott-memorial-scholarship/): WASHINGTON (March 2, 2021) – The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLAF) today announced that it has officially disbursed more than $500,000 in academic scholarships through the annual AHLAF J. Willard Marriott Memorial Scholarship Fund. This fund has supported more than 330 hospitality students across the country.
- [Hotel Industry Foundation Announces $5 Million Commitment To Diversity, Equity & Inclusion](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/hotel-industry-foundation-announces-5-million-commitment-to-dei/): WASHINGTON (February 26, 2021) – The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) today announced a new $5 million, multi-year commitment and action plan to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) in the hotel and lodging industry.
- [USA Today: 'We Can And Should Do More': Hotel Industry Announces $5 Million, 5-Year Diversity Plan](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/we-can-and-should-do-more-hotel-industry-announces-5-million/): by Morgan Hines, USA Today
- [AHLA Foundation Introduces First-Ever Presidential Award](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/foundation-introduces-first-ever-presidential-award/): At a time when the hotel industry is hurting and nearly 4 million hotel employees remain furloughed across the country, the AHLA Foundation is focused on finding innovative approaches to help displaced workers advance their skills and education. 
- [AHLAF Continues The Fight Against Trafficking](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahlaf-continues-fight-against-trafficking/): As National Human Trafficking Prevention Month comes to an end, we want to thank everyone for their active engagement and efforts to raise awareness of human trafficking.
- [National Human Trafficking Prevention Month](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/national-human-trafficking-prevention-month/): In honor of National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, the AHLA Foundation is proud to unveil a series of resources to build on the current work being done in the industry to fight the scourge of human trafficking.
- ['This Is Real': Human Trafficking Survivor Shares Story Ahead Of Super Bowl, As Hotels Increase Training](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/human-trafficking-survivor-shares-story-ahead-of-super-bowl-as-hotels-increase-training/): TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa is less than a month out from the Super Bowl, a highlight for fans and a dark draw for human sex trafficking.
- [ECPAT-USA Issues Updated Report On Human Trafficking Laws Concerning The Lodging Industry](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-251/): Brooklyn, NY -- ECPAT-USA, in partnership with the American Hotel and Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation), released today the latest update in a series of reports that detail anti-trafficking training and signage laws, as well as potential civil and criminal liability, in each state.
- [A Difficult Year Still Delivered Hope](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/a-difficult-year-still-delivered-hope/): In the industry’s most challenging year on record, the AHLA Foundation sought to support our employees and industry as hotels were forced to shut down and/or undertake material changes to their businesses. 
- [ECOLAB HITS $500,000 MARK IN AHLA FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS FOR HOSPITALITY STUDENTS](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ecolab-hits-500000-mark-in-ahla-foundation-scholarships-for-hospitality-students/): WASHINGTON (November 16, 2020) – The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLAF) today announced that Ecolab, Inc., the global leader in water, hygiene and infection prevention solutions and services, has hit the $500,000 mark in academic and professional scholarships awarded through the annual AHLAF Ecolab Hospitality Scholarship Program. More than 350 students and current hotel employees across the country have received a scholarship through the program.
- [Apprenticeships Work](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/apprenticeships-work/): Growing up, my dad talked fondly about learning his craft working as an apprentice under the great master tailors in Rome, Italy. They taught him the art of cloth and the craft of hand stitching suits and dresses, coats and gowns worthy of royalty. He credits the apprenticeship with his success, honing his skills and setting him on a path to owning a business.
- [LODGING MAGAZINE: ‘THIS IS OUR TIME’: AHLAF SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS PLAN FOR A FUTURE IN HOSPITALITY](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/this-is-our-time-ahlaf-scholarship-recipients-plan-for-a-future-in-hospitality/): Quanifah Williams and her mother would cook together when she was growing up. Cooking was always a happy part of her day and allowed her to appreciate the art of food. Now, Williams is pursuing a career in hospitality at Walnut Hill College in Philadelphia, “because there’s just something about watching people light up from food.”
- [LODGING MAGAZINE: APPRENTICESHIP ‘SKYROCKETS’ HOTEL MANAGER’S CAREER—EVEN THROUGH PANDEMIC](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/apprenticeship-skyrockets-hotel-managers-career-even-through-pandemic/): Over a decade ago, Kelbie Reynolds started one of his first “real jobs,” as he puts it—washing dishes at the Courtyard by Marriott Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront Hotel in Florida. From there, he worked in pretty much every department—food and beverage, housekeeping, security. He spent time working as a beach and pool attendant and even spent a season in Alaska working for a cruise line. Eventually he moved back to Florida to work for a business setting up chairs and umbrellas for beachgoers. After all that, Reynolds decided it was time to return to where he started: hotels.
- [HOTEL INDUSTRY FOUNDATION UNVEILS 2-YEAR HOSPITALITY SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/hotel-industry-foundation-unveils-2-year-hospitality-scholarship-program/): WASHINGTON (October 7, 2020) – The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) today unveiled a new scholarship program to partner with 10, 2-year hospitality programs around the country. The new endeavor will provide $100,000 to students signing up for the 2021/2022 academic year. In addition, AHLAF is awarding another $1 million in scholarships to 310 bachelor and graduate degree hospitality students during the 2020/2021 academic year. Since its founding, the AHLA Foundation has distributed nearly $14 million in scholarship funds to promising hospitality management students across the nation.
- [AHLA FOUNDATION AND NRAEF AWARDED HOSPITALITY-SECTOR REGISTERED APPRENTICESHIP GRANT](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-nraef-awarded-hospitality-sector-registered-apprenticeship-grant/): WASHINGTON, DC – October 1, 2020 – The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) received a five-year, $9.2 million contract from the U.S. Department of Labor to continue the growth and expansion of its Hospitality-Sector Registered Apprenticeship (HSRA) – an earn-while-you-learn training program conducted in partnership with the American Hotel and Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) and the Multicultural Food and Hospitality Association (MFHA). 
- [AHLA, AHLA FOUNDATION HONORED AT WHITE HOUSE WITH PLEDGE TO AMERICA’S WORKERS PRESIDENTIAL AWARD](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-honored-at-white-house-with-pledge-to-america%27s-workers-presidential-award/): WASHINGTON (September 23, 2020) – The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and the American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) today received top honors at the White House for their collective work to support and empower hotel industry employees. AHLA and AHLA Foundation were among a small group of companies and organizations awarded the Pledge to America’s Workers Presidential Award in recognition of outstanding comprehensive workforce development efforts to create new and enhanced education and training opportunities for current and future hotel employees. 
- [ACUITY HELPS AHLA FOUNDATION PROVIDE TRAINING TO HOTEL INDUSTRY EMPLOYEES IMPACTED BY COVID-19](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/acuity-helps-ahla-foundation-provide-training-to-hotel-industry-%20employees-impacted-by-covid19/): WASHINGTON (August 19, 2020) – Acuity is donating $25,000 to the American Hotel & Lodging (AHLA) Foundation’s COVID Relief Fund. The AHLA Foundation donation will help provide 100 hotel employees with access to free training, professional development, and continuing education scholarships.
- [PREPARING FOR AFTER-PANDEMIC CAREER SUCCESS](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/preparing-for-after-pandemic-career-success/): Matthew Thompson, a maintenance supervisor at a La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham in Cary, N.C., is pursuing an upward course in the hotel industry even amid the pandemic. Thompson, who is a plumber and electrician by trade, says he was encouraged to head back to school to prepare for a management career by a former La Quinta executive impressed with his suggestion that they implement a preventive maintenance program. He described his path, his plan for a post-epidemic management career, and the role of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) Foundation in his education to LODGING, after speaking at a virtual After-Hours Cocktail event sponsored by Ecolab and Vesta Hospitality that raised $100,000 to support furloughed hospitality employees.
- [HOTEL INDUSTRY FOUNDATION RAISES $100,000 TO SUPPORT FURLOUGHED EMPLOYEES](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/hotel-industry-foundation-raises-100000-to-support-furloughed-employees/): WASHINGTON (July 29, 2020) – The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation), the charitable giving arm of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), raised $100,000 at an After-Hours Cocktail event with PGA professional Davis Love III. 
- [HOW AHLA FOUNDATION IS CONTINUING ITS MISSION IN THE NEW ENVIRONMENT](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/how_ahla_foundation_is_continuing_its_mission_in_the_new_environment/): In the wake of the worldwide pandemic that precipitated a wave of layoffs and furloughs in the hotel industry, the American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation), the charitable giving arm of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), rushed to create and implement free education, training, and certification programs to keep suddenly unemployed hospitality employees connected to the industry. Rosanna Maietta, AHLA Foundation president and executive vice president of communications and public relations at AHLA, provided for LODGING a summary of these programs, which were extended to include May as well as April, and touched on how other programs that support the Foundation’s mission—which continues to be to support communities and workers—may address employees’ post-pandemic prospects in the industry.
- [HOTEL INDUSTRY FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES FREE TRAINING, EDUCATION COURSES FOR HOTEL EMPLOYEES](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/hotel-industry-foundation-announces-free-training-educational-courses-for-hotel-employees/): WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 1, 2020) – In an effort to support the 8 million hotel industry employees affected by this unprecedented public health crisis, the American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation), the charitable giving arm of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), today announced free resources to help industry employees continue their education during this difficult time. 
- [AHLA FOUNDATION APPLAUDS DOL RULE ON APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/foundation-applauds-dol-rule-on-apprenticeship/): WASHINGTON (March 10, 2020) – The American Hotel & Lodging Foundation (AHLA Foundation) today released the following statement applauding the U.S. Department of Labor’s final rule on Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship Programs (IRAPs). The quote is attributable to Rosanna Maietta, president of the American Hotel & Lodging Foundation. 
 
“The hospitality industry applauds the U.S. Department of Labor’s decision to create Industry-Recognized Apprenticeship Programs (IRAPs). In the tightest labor market in a decade, the hotel industry looks forward to working with the Department and Administration to promote and expand high quality work and learn programs nationwide. 
 
“In a business of people taking care of people, we could not be successful without the 8 million men and women in jobs that the hotel industry supports. Our industry exemplifies the American Dream, and our apprenticeship programs have allowed us to use a trusted model to groom talent and grow careers. Industry adoption of AHLA’s registered Lodging Manager Apprenticeship program is yielding an impressive 94 percent retention rate for employers, and AHLA recently received USDOL registration for its newly launched Hotel Cook Apprenticeship Program. We look forward to continuing to broaden adoption of these registered programs while developing a new complimentary IRAP path for the lodging sector in 2020.”  
 
### 
 
About The AHLA Foundation: 
The AHLA Foundation, the charitable giving arm of the American Hotel & Lodging Association, is dedicated to helping people build careers, improve their lives and strengthen the lodging industry. From lifting individuals out of poverty and connecting them with a life-long career in the industry to providing certifications to promote current hotel employees into leadership positions, the Foundation's programs are changing the industry by changing lives. We are committed to elevating, educating, and empowering individuals and the public on the industry’s story of opportunity and advancement. Since its founding in 1953, the Foundation has distributed over $27 million in support of the industry and is committed to ensuring a strong and viable workforce for the entire lodging industry. The Foundation is funded solely by contributions from generous individuals and companies who want to give back to the hotel industry and ensure a successful future.  Learn more at www.AHLAFoundation.org. 
 
- [LODGING MAGAZINE: INSIDE THE NEWLY REBRANDED AHLA FOUNDATION](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/node-208/): In January, at the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) Night of a Thousand Stars celebration in Los Angeles, the organization announced that the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Foundation would be rebranding as the AHLA Foundation. LODGING connected with Rosanna Maietta, AHLA Foundation president and EVP of communications and public relations at AHLA, and Greg Juceam, chair of the AHLA Foundation Board and president and COO of G6 Hospitality, to discuss the AHLA Foundation’s new identity and the importance of education in the hotel industry.

## Pages
- [Night of a Thousand Stars Gala](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/night-of-a-thousand-stars/): To learn more about sponsorship opportunities for Night of a Thousand Stars, please contact Sasha Somuah at ssmouah@ahla.com What are the "Stars of the Industry"?
- [FORWARD / Advisory Committee](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/forward-advisory-committee-2025/)
- [Protected: ELEVATE 2025 Cohort Resource Page](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/elevate-2025-resources/)
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- [Strong Foundation, Strong Industry](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/giving/)
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- [...](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/off-site2024schedule/): OFF-SITE-2024_Schedule-of-EventsDownload
- [ForWard Conference 2024 Gallery](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/forward-conference-2024-gallery/)
- [AHLA Foundation Affiliated Schools](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahla-foundation-affiliated-schools/): Affiliated colleges and universities are approved to participate in the Foundation’s Academic Scholarship Program. These schools receive award allocations each Fall and may nominate eligible students to receive those awards. Affiliated schools agree to abide by the eligibility criteria and responsibilities established by the AHLA Foundation for participation.
- [ForWard Regional Events](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/forward/forward-regional-events/)
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- [FORWARD Annual Conference](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/forward/annual-conference/)
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- [FORWARD/BUILD&ELEVATE](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/forward/build-elevate-leadership-programs/): Testimonials
- [FORWARD: Advancing Women in Hospitality](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/forward/)
- [FORWARD Virtual Forums](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/forward-virtual-forums/): FORWARD Thinking Recordings https://youtu.be/Y-j81bT3hm8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXvTcdUD4H8 https://youtu.be/LgMoDJ5gRaw https://youtu.be/gcFyhlcAHCM https://youtu.be/WccxX_NJiU8 https://youtu.be/wgPOQT2TyY4 https://youtu.be/XC7zZpqICaY https://youtu.be/8qOrntM4zs8 https://youtu.be/25Mxthx6_aY https://youtu.be/bH2ASOAQ2mo https://youtu.be/6MDLfKKM4XE https://youtu.be/zXglaieJC5g https://youtu.be/oja9aGMZe4w
- [No Room For Trafficking Initiative](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/nrft/): As training and awareness efforts increase reports of human trafficking, the AHLA Foundation strives to prevent the potential re-victimization of identified survivors by supporting their immediate and longer-term stability. We are evolving our workforce development and academic programs to include opportunities that match the unique needs of survivors as they develop career pathways for long-term stability. And together with industry leaders we have launched the industry's first-ever Survivor Fund to provide grants to organizations that directly empower and sustain survivors and their families on their path forward.
- [Connect with Us](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/connect/): The AHLA Foundation exists to support our industry members in taking care of their people – the amazing workforce that sustains the hospitality industry.  We want to help hoteliers, vendors, and educators in this industry invest in your people so they will stay and grow in the industry long-term along the hundreds of career paths available. In doing this work, we have reinvested more than $36 million back into the hospitality industry by way of providing support in recruitment, retention, development, and advancement efforts. More specifically, here’s what that looks like just in the past year: Over one million dollars in college scholarships to students studying in 2 or 4-year hospitality degree programs. Travel scholarships to bring 60 students from HBCUs to the major industry conferences. Partnering with community-based organizations through our Empowering Youth Program to introduce 500 opportunity youth to this industry this year. Enrolling 500 apprentices for certification with the Department of Labor, across 80 employers - our largest year of growth in the Apprenticeship Program to date. More than $30,000 in professional development scholarships to facilitate upskilling or certification for industry employees. Facilitating 240 mentoring relationships through our one-of-a-kind cross-industry mentorship program. Training 100 C-suite and executive industry leaders on inclusive leadership and change management through our immersive Executive Leadership Academy. Surpassing our goal of 1 million completed anti-trafficking trainings by hotel employees through our No Room For Trafficking program (We're at 1.2 million and counting!) Hosting the No Room For Trafficking Summit to unify and educate industry leaders and to honor the first recipients of the NRFT Survivor Fund Grant Program and awarding a total of $500k to survivor-supporting organizations. We do all of this and more.  We do it to strengthen our people and strengthen our industry.  If you are investing in the foundation, you are increasing our ability to reinvest in people who are serving in all levels of this industry. Every time, you give to the foundation or participate in our programs, you are, in fact, supporting this industry as a whole. To find out more about our programs, contact Rebekah Keridwen. Find Us On Social Media Save the Dates for Our 2024 Events
- [NRFT Summit 2022](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/nrft-summit-2022/): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifkBzv-ADpI
- [NRFT Summit Photo Gallery](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/nrft-summit-photo-gallery/)
- [2023 NRFT Summit Agenda](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/2023-nrft-agenda/): Wednesday, July 19th, 2023 | Park Hyatt, Washington, D.C.
- [No Room For Trafficking Advisory Council](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/nrft-ac/): 07.13.23-NRFT-AC-UpdatedDownload
- [2021 Annual Report](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/2021-annual-report-2/)
- [Leadership Academy](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/leadership-academy/)
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- [Ad Campaign to Attract Talent](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/aplacetostay/): Campaign Goals
- [Mentorship](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/mentorship/): Join our Leadership Mentoring Program and build meaningful, one-on-one connections across the hospitality industry. Whether you’re an emerging professional or a seasoned leader, this is your chance to learn, lead, and inspire.
- [Research](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/research/)
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- [Our Donors](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/donors/): Accor
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- [Applying for a Research Grant](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/applying-for-a-research-grant/)
- [AHLAFoundation.org Terms of Use](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahlaforg-terms-of-use/): The AHLA Foundation, Inc. (“AHLAF” “we” or “us”) provides information and other online services (collectively, the “Services”), including information about AHLA Foundation, Inc., our products and services, at www.AHLAFoundation.org to our users (“You”) under the following terms and conditions   (“Terms of Use”) as set forth in this General Terms and Conditions of Use Agreement (“Agreement”).  This Agreement applies to the Site and other online services of AHLA Foundation, Inc.  You agree to be bound by this Agreement, whether You are a “Visitor” (which means that You simply browse the Sites) or a “Registered User” (which means that You have registered with the Sites or Services and established an account with AHLA to use the Services (an “Account”)).
- [AHLAFoundation.org Privacy Policy](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/ahlaforg-privacy-policy/): This Privacy Policy explains how information about you is collected, used and disclosed by AHLA Foundation, Inc. (the “Organization”). This Privacy Policy applies to information we collect when you use our websites, mobile sites, mobile applications and other online services that link to this Privacy Policy (collectively, the “Sites”) or when you otherwise interact with us.
- [Recruitment](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/recruitment/): With nearly 80% of hotels experiencing staffing shortages, there are currently more than 100k positions left unfilled. We’re here to help the hotel industry find the talent they need.
- [Professional Development Scholarships](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/professional-development-scholarships/)
- [Academic Programs](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/scholarships/): Allison ClunisSan Diego State University
- [Advancement](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/advancement/)
- [Events](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/events/)
- [News](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/news/)
- [Our People](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/our-people/)
- [Apprenticeship Program](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/apprenticeship/): AC Hotels
- [About](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/about/)
- [AHLA Foundation | Home](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/)

## Events
- [FORWARD/The Exchange at The Hospitality Show](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/forward-the-exchange-at-the-hospitality-show/)
- [Night of A Thousand Stars 2027](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/night-of-a-thousand-stars-2027/)
- [FORWARD/27](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/forwardconference/)
- [OFF-SITE: The Classic 2027](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/off-site-the-classic-2027/)
- [FORWARD/The Exchange in New York City](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/forward-the-exchange-in-new-york-city/)
- [OFF SITE: The Classic 2026](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/off-site-the-classic-2026/)
- [No Room for Trafficking Summit 2025](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/no-room-for-trafficking-summit-2025/)
- [Night of A Thousand Stars Gala 2026](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/night-of-a-thousand-stars-gala-2026/)
- [OFF SITE: The Classic 2025](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/off-site-the-classic-2025/)
- [OFF-SITE: The Classic](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/off-site-the-classic/)
- [ForWard Conference 2025](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/forward-conference-2025/)
- [FORWARD@Orange County](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/forwardorange-county/)
- [FORWARD@Chicago](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/forwardchicago-2/)
- [OFF-SITE: The Classic](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/off-site-the-new-classic/)
- [2024 FORWARD Annual Conference](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/2024-forward-annual-conference/)
- [2024 BUILD Practicum](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/2024-build-practicum/)
- [2024 ELEVATE Practicum](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/2024-elevate-practicum/)
- [2024 Night of A Thousand Stars](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/2024-night-of-a-thousand-stars-2024/)
- [OFF-SITE: Las Vegas](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/off-site-las-vegas/)
- [OFF-SITE: The New Classic Austin](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/event/offsite/)

## People
- [Thom Geshay](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/thom-geshay/)
- [Nicole Di Fabio](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/nicole-di-fabio/)
- [Adrienne Summers](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/adrienne-summers/)
- [Margie Ferree Jones](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/margie-ferree-jones/)
- [Blake Longstaff](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/blake-longstaff/)
- [Apoorva Gandhi](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/apoorva-gandhi/)
- [Sarah Dinger](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/sarah-dinger/)
- [Barry Bloom](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/barry-bloom/)
- [Joseph Bojanowski](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/joseph-bojanowski/)
- [Joan Bottarini](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/joan-bottarini/)
- [Kevin Carey](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/kevin-carey/)
- [Rosanna Maietta](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/rosanna-maietta/)
- [Eric Terry](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/eric-terry/)
- [Liz Perkins](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/liz-perkins/)
- [Harshil Patel](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/harshil-patel/)
- [Máire Griffin](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/maire-griffin/)
- [Elliott Estes](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/elliott-estes/)
- [Kimberly Guy](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/kimberly-guy/)
- [Daniel Peek](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/daniel-peek/)
- [Greg Cocchiarella](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/greg-cocchiarella/)
- [Ann Christenson](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/ann-christenson/)
- [Jean-Luc Barone](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/jean-luc-barone/)
- [Anu Saxena](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/anu-saxena/)
- [Galilhea Calderon](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/galilhea-calderon/)
- [Beks Keridwen](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/rebekah-keridwen/)
- [Lindsay Miller](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/lindsay-miller/)
- [Eliza McCoy](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/eliza-mccoy/)
- [Jennifer Clark Fugolo](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/jennifer-fugolo/)
- [Kara Filer](https://www.ahlafoundation.org/staff/kara-filer/)