More than 100 Travel Industry Organizations Urge Immediate Disaster Relief
By Todd McElwee
“Recovery cannot wait.”
North of 100 destination leaders and small business operators across seven states a ected by recent disasters shared that message in a letter Congressional leadership, urging lawmakers to pass immediate disaster relief.
“Travelers and the travel industry are critical drivers of our economy,” the letter states. “The severity of
recent disaster events has resulted in steep losses in visitation to our destinations and our local small businesses who depend on the travel economy for their livelihood.”
The correspondence, dispatched to leaders of both chambers, appeals for Congress to provide emergency supplemental funding for the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Relief (CDBG-DR) program and Economic Adjustment Assistance program, ensuring the hardest hit com-
Striking San Francisco Hotel Workers Urge J.P. Morgan to Cancel Healthcare Conference
By Jordan Bradley
San Francisco’s hotel union, Unite Here Local 2, is calling for JP Morgan Chase to cancel its annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference set to be held from January 13–16 at the Westin St. Francis, one of six hotels impacted by an ongoing strike instituted by the union.
The call for cancellation comes as the union continues its months-long strike actions in an e ort to gain better pay and healthcare
benefits, among other contract demands, from local hotels.
Approximately 2,500 hotel workers have been on strike since September at the Grand Hyatt San Francisco, Hilton San Francisco Union Square, Palace Hotel, San Francisco Marriott Union Square, San Francisco Marriott Marquis, and the Westin St. Francis.
The 43rd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference is invite-only and is expected to draw more than
munities, where travel has dropped to record lows in the aftermath of the storms, receive needed support.
“Too many destinations in too many states are currently waiting on Congress to provide desperately needed relief from disasters that took place months ago,” said Geoff Freeman, President & CEO, U.S. Travel Association. “The holiday season is peak travel season and Main Street businesses are su ering. The time for Congress
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MPI Foundation Marks 40 Years in “Celebrating the Power of Good”
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CHLA Celebrates California Hoteliers with Hotel All Star Awards
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Destinations International Seeking Applications for 30 Under 30 Program
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Resorts World Las Vegas
DECEMBER 16, 2024
Healthcare Associations React to UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s Murder
By Todd McElwee
In the wake of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s murder in New York City earlier this month, USAE conducted an e-mail, website, Google and social media search for reactions to the crime from healthcare industry associations.
Numerous o erings of condolences were found, though the overwhelmingly majority of organizations USAE contacted directly declined to comment or did not respond to messages. Out of the 10 associations, which spanned a wide swath of the healthcare sector, USAE contacted directly only AHIP, an association for health insurers, responded with a comment: two LinkedIn posts from President & CEO Michael Tu n.
“The people in our industry are mission-driven professionals working to make coverage and care as a ordable as possible and to help people navigate the complex medical system,” one post said. “They are conscientious, dedicated people from all walks of life
Megan Conway Tapped as
Leader of Travel Portland
By Jonathan Trager
Travel Portland has named current Chief Strategy O cer Megan Conway as the Oregon organization’s next President & CEO e ective January 1.
Conway follows Je Miller, who’s retiring after nearly 19 years in the role. Her appointment was announced on December 9.
“Being trusted to lead Travel Portland into our next chapter is an honor, and I look forward to continuing the good work of Je Miller, our amazing sta and all our partners as we build momen-
tum and return Portland to its rightful place among can’t-miss destinations in the U.S.,” said Conway. “As president and CEO, I will continue to prioritize innovative and inspirational initiatives that build up not only our tourism community, but our city as a whole.” Conway originally came to the organization in 2003, serving nearly five years as a communications and public relations manager. After leaving for a role with Adidas, Conway re-joined Travel Portland in 2010 as vice president, communica-
The California Hotel and Lodging Association (CHLA) hosted the 2024 Hotel All Stars luncheon, the association’s annual industry award ceremony recognizing exemplary hotel professionals throughout the Golden State, on December 6. More than 140 members of the hotel industry were recognized during this year’s awards. Pictured here is Cormac O’Modhrain (far right, back row in gray suit), Chair, CHLA; Deysa Salinas (middle row, second from right, white jacket), Corporate Director of Rooms, Noble House Hotels & Resorts, and first time honoree; and other hotel professionals during the luncheon at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco.
HOTS Cypher Stocking Stuffer… Britain’s electronic and cyber-intelligence agency, Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ), published its annual “Christmas Challenge” on December 11, inviting any would-be spies aged 11–18 to give it a go. The Christmas Challenge is a seasonal greeting card made of a set of seven brainteasers, puzzles, cyphers and clues that encourages the puzzles undertakers to work in teams using “lateral thinking, ingenuity and perseverance” to solve
USAE
Publisher & Executive Editor 1982 – 2021 Anne Daly Heller
Publisher-Emeritus Ross E. Heller ross@usaenews.com
Publisher James Heller james@usaenews.com
Creative Director Diane Nichols dkn@usaenews.com
Managing Editor Jonathan Trager jon@usaenews.com
Associate Publisher And Association Editor Todd McElwee todd@usaenews.com
Hotel Editor Jordan Bradley jordan@usaenews.com Graphic
Danielle Erbe danielle@yespleasebrand.com
Christy Pumphrey christy@usaenews.com
HOTS HOTS
them, according to the Associated Press. The card is also sent to heads of national security in other countries by the GCHQ, and has become popular with teachers, AP reports. But it’s not all fun and games—GCHQ Director Ann Keast-Butler said that the cards are also intended to inspire younger generations to consider STEM careers. For interested USAE readers, the card can be downloaded from the GCHQ website at www.gchq.gov.uk. HOTS knows what it’ll be doing by the fireside tonight.
HOTS Googly Eyes… The City of Bend, Oregon, took to Instagram to plead with residents to stop attaching giant googly eyes to public sculptures throughout the city, UPI reports. In a December 4 post, the city’s government said: “While the google eyes placed on the various art pieces around town might give you a chuckle, it costs money to remove them with care to not damage the art.” The post included photos of googly eyes attached to statues of a deer and fawn, and a large globe. The post also showed a photo of adhesive left on the statue by the quirky art supplies. Ac-
cording to the post, residents are also decorating local art with wreaths, leis, and Santa hats, which the city does not condone, but at least doesn’t leave behind damaging adhesives. Bend residents added around 100 comments in support of the googly eyes to the
post, with some going so far as to say the eyes give them hope. City spokesperson René Mitchell told OregonLive that cleanup of the residue left behind by the eyes has already cost the city more than $1,500. HOTS hopes this sticky situation resolves quickly.
Dana Young to Retire as Head of Visit Florida
By Jonathan Trager
Dana Young, President & CEO of Visit Florida, announced on December 10 her retirement after six years of leading the state’s destination organization.
Young, the longest-serving agency head in the administration of Gov. Ron DeSantis, will remain in her role until her successor is appointed.
“I am so grateful to Governor DeSantis for the opportunity to lead Visit Florida for the past six years,” said Young. “I am very proud of the work we have done (and will continue to do) at Visit Florida, maximizing return on investment for Florida taxpayers. This has truly been the best job I have ever had, and I will miss my amazing team.”
Under Young, visitation to the Sunshine State rose by 7.3% to 140.6 million visitors in 2023. Visit Florida has also expanded its membership to include every destination in the state; secured record funding; and
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to act is now.”
To illustrate the depth of need, in just one recent example since the end of September, North Carolina’s
elevated Florida to the top overseas destination, surpassing New York for the first time since 2001, according to the organization.
However, the group has also found itself at the forefront of charges that the political climate under DeSantis, a former Republican candidate for U.S. president, has made the state less welcoming for potential LGBTQ+ visitors.
Visit Florida declined a USAE request to interview Young.
“During Dana Young’s tenure, Florida’s tourism industry has consistently set records and exceeded all expectations,” said John Lai, Chairman of Visit Florida. “She has done more for our state and industry than we could ever measure, guiding us through challenging times with unwavering determination and leading the way to record-breaking visitation. We owe her a tremendous debt of gratitude for her hard work and dedication, and I am excited to see her embark on her next chapter.”
Mountain region—home to 47,000 travel industry workers—stands to lose $2.1 billion in visitor spending this fall alone. The damage caused by Hurricane Helene is estimated to total up to $53 billion dollars.
The letter reads: “Our communities have been strong in the face of wide-
Before joining Visit Florida, Young served eight years in the Florida legislature, representing Tampa and parts of Hillsborough County. Dana Young
spread devastation, but we cannot continue for long without federal support. We ask Congress to pass disaster relief legislation urgently to help our communities recover and avoid further economic damage.”
Find more information at ustravel.org
Lisa Vanderpump’s newest restaurant and cocktail bar, Pinky’s by Vanderpump, recently held an opening celebration at Flamingo Las Vegas. Shown here (left to right): Regional President of Caesars Entertainment Sean McBurney; SVP and GM of Flamingo Las Vegas Dan Walsh; Vanderpump and Caesars Entertainment COO and President Anthony Carano. Photo by Denise Truscello
AAHOA President & CEO and Lobbyist Recognized by The Hill
By Jordan Bradley
Two key figures, Laura Lee Blake and Neal Patel at the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA), have been recognized in The Hill’s Top Lobbyists of 2024.
Blake, AAHOA’s President and CEO, and Patel, of Patel Partners, a government relations firm, have been recognized as “the best in the business” when it comes to advancing the interests of their members and “go-to advocates during a year defined by unprecedented political events, legislative logjams, federal spending and cut crusades and big rulemaking swings by the outgoing Biden administration,” according to The Hill, an online and print publication dedicated to covering Washington, D.C.’s intersection of politics and business.
“It is an honor to be recognized alongside such distinguished advo-
cates,” said Blake. Blake credited the achievement and recognition from The Hill in part due
to the “contributions of thousands of AAHOA members” who “inspire and drive our e orts.”
Both Blake and Patel have been recognized on the list in the past, AAHOA said, and their inclusion in the list this year “comes during a transformative time for the hospitality sector, as legislative and regulatory changes continue to pose unique challenges.”
Throughout the year, AAHOA increased its advocacy e orts, focusing on issues like labor shortages, access to capital, and regulatory reform.
“I am humbled to work on behalf of America’s hotel owners each and every day,” said Patel, Managing Partner of Patel Partners. “These remarkable individuals are not only great entrepreneurs and job-creators but also the foremost example of the American Dream in action. This recognition reflects the incredible dedication of
MPI Foundation Marks 40 Years in “Celebrating the Power of Good”
By Todd McElwee
“Celebrating the Power of Good,” a commemoration of the MPI Foundation’s 40th anniversary, has been released.
Within the pages of the digital and print o ering, readers will discover success stories, testimonials and a timeline of milestones from MPIF’s first four decades.
Kevin Kirby, Executive Director, MPI Foundation, wrote: “Over 25,000 individuals. Every MPI chapter. Dozens of pan-industry research grants. $14.4 million distributed. AND you! That’s what 40 years of volunteer work has yielded. The MPI Foundation’s purpose has mirrored the needs of your global community to provide financial support to individuals, chapters and industry associations to raise the bar on education, professionalism, industry
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who serve their communities. They are our family, friends and neighbors. We condemn any suggestion that threats against our colleagues—or anyone else in our country—are ever acceptable.”
One association mentioned their CEO reached out privately to the family, but did not want to be cited. A few no comments were received, but most organizations did not respond. USAE did not find a single comment on any of the roughly 20 websites visited. A Google search turned up a handful
research and service. Simply, no other industry association has distributed as much back to individual industry professionals.”
Endeavors mentioned include MPIF’s work with providing money and resources to members in desperate needs, including those a ected by the war in Ukraine and Hawaiian fires; developing an anti-human tra cking education program for use at MPI chapters; scholarships; fundraising; RENDEZVOUS at IMEX America and a decade by decade timeline.
The publication noted MPIF grants helped the MPI Denmark Chapter host a one-day training course using the Event Design Canvas methodology and MPI’s Connecticut River Valley Chapter stage a dinner and education combo session with a medical meetings focus. A grant supporting HelmsBriscoe’s HB Cares Autism
of responses, including a HEALTHCAREDIVE article cataloguing condolences from corporate, government and nonprofits outfits.
JC Scott, President & CEO, Pharmaceutical Care Management, said in the piece: “On behalf of PCMA, we are deeply saddened by the passing of Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare. During this di cult time, our thoughts, prayers, and support are with our colleagues at PCMA member OptumRx, the entire UnitedHealth team, and the Thompson family.”
Additional social media posts found via Google include those from the National Association of Benefits and
Work Experience Project was also mentioned.
“My participation in the MPI Chicago Area Chapter literally would not have been possible were it not for this scholarship opportunity,” said Gabriel Alaniz. “The MPIF has helped me gain confidence in my journey towards establishing myself as a meeting planner in the Chicago area. Thanks to this scholarship opportunity, I have been able to foster meaningful relationships with other
Susie Townsend, 2024 Chair, MPIF Global Board of Trustees, and Chief Destination Experience O cer, Visit Indy, shared the foundation’s e orts with DMOs.
“This has been a reciprocal e ort given the MPIF’s support of DMO employees during the pandemic,” she said. “We can confidently state that over 60 DMOs across the globe
Insurance Professionals (NABIP) and Catholic Health Association (CHA)— which linked to its website.
“CHA and the Catholic health care community were shocked and grieved to learn of the tragic death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson,” said CHA President & CEO Sr. Mary Haddad, RSM. “We o er our prayers for healing and consolation for the loved ones of Mr. Thompson. We also extend our sympathy and condolences to the UnitedHealthcare community during this deeply troubling time. As a Catholic health ministry, we a rm the sacredness of life and call on everyone to join us in condemning this and other
received support via the foundation at a time when funds were tight. Our intent is to highlight the value of the MPI community and suggest simple ways every DMO can support this ongoing recovery via the foundation.”
Kelly Gleeson Smith, Vice President of Sales for Caesars Entertainment, discussed RENDEZVOUS at IMEX America, which is held at Drai’s Day & Night Club at the Cromwell Hotel in Las Vegas. Caesars Entertainment has sponsored the event for more than a decade, with Brian Crumby, Director of Strategic Accounts, on the Global Board of Trustees.
“It’s growing every year and selling out, and we are proud to play a role in its success—raising almost $400,000 for the foundation is certainly something to be proud of,” she said. “Besides hosting our top clients Please turn to page 8
senseless acts of violence.”
The Colorado Association of Health Plans (CAHP) also shared a statement with its thoughts and well wishes.
Outside of healthcare, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce said: “The horrific murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson comes as a shock to all Americans. As we process this senseless violence and learn more about the circumstances of this act, we mourn the loss of Brian and extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones. Our prayers are also with Brian’s employees. We stand ready to help them in any way as they deal with the aftermath of this tragedy.”
Neal Patel
AAHOA and its members to advocating for meaningful change.”
Laura Blake
CHLA Celebrates California Hoteliers with Hotel All Star Awards
By Jordan Bradley
The California Hotel and Lodging Association (CHLA) hosted its annual Hotel All Stars awards luncheon on December 6 at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco, recognizing 144 members of the state’s hospitality industry.
“Congratulations to our 2024 Hotel All Stars, who represent the very best and brightest in hospitality across the state,” saidLynn S. Mohrfeld, President and CEO of CHLA. “Your commitment to excellence keeps our industry thriving and ensures thatCalifornia remains a world-class destination for travelers. We are proud to celebrate your achievements.”
This is the first year that the CHLA has organized the annual industry awards for California hoteliers this way.
According to the association, the Hotel All Stars awards are “an evolution” of the CHLA’s Stars of the Industry Awards—which was first introduced by the American Hotel and Lodging Association more than 40
years ago and involved voting for one winner per category—that aims to be more inclusive.
The new format highlights top performers that are eligible and qualified for recognition in eight categories: accounting, finance, engineering and security, human resources, food and beverage, sales and marketing, guest services, housekeeping, and general manager.
This year, the CHLA highlighted Deysa Salinas, Corporate Director of Rooms at Nobel House Hotels & Resorts, San Francisco, who was recognized for the first time by the association in the guest services category.
Salinas stood out among the candi dates for “her commitment to creating an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute their best work,” the CHLA said.
Salinas joined the Argonaut Hotel, a Noble House Hotels & Resorts property, in San Francisco in 2016
“The people behind the desk, behind the bar, in the restaurant—those are the ones who make the team great,”
Salinas said. “Leading a group of people to achieve success, to achieve their goals, and to feel like they’re working in a family environment—that’s what
makes my job amazing. It just makes me feel wonderful about it.”
For a full list of honorees, visit calodging.com/hotel-all-stars
Karin Soyster Fitzgerald Retiring from AMC Institute
By Todd McElwee
An accomplished association industry career that commenced by chance in 1986 is wrapping up.
Karin Soyster Fitzgerald, MMM, CMP, CAE, is retiring as COO of AMC Institute (AMCI), leaving after the association annual meeting in February.
She told USAE: “Like most people my age in the industry, I completely fell into it. I started in 1986 as a temporary receptionist at the American Subcontractors Association and left nine years later while finishing my undergraduate degree. I initially thought that I would work for associations and then teach—figuring I could always go back to teaching but not the reverse.
“I am so glad I stayed in the association, industry! I have had a great career, serving in almost every capacity of association management. I have met some of the most amazing people over the years—from colleagues to nationally
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8,000 attendees from the health and technology industries, and investment community.
“This premier conference is the largest and most informative health care investment symposium in the industry which connects global industry leaders, emerging fast-growth companies,
recognized speakers. It has truly been a great experience, and I would recommend an association career to anyone!”
innovative technology creators and members of the investment community,” the conference’s website reads.
Striking union members are going as far as to call attendees to urge them not to attend, according to the San Francisco Chronicle
The union initially reached out to J.P. Morgan in late September, asking the company to cancel the conference, Ted Waechter, a Local 2 spokesperson told
Soyster Fitzgerald has been with AMCI for two years and will stay involved by managing the meetings of the association through contract services.
“AMCI is a dynamic organization whose members provide thought leadership to associations around the globe,” she said. “I am excited for this next step in my personal journey, and I look forward to continuing to lead the meetings of AMCI. My goal is for AMCI to continue delivering valuable events to our members.”
The International Association of Fire Chiefs, United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation, and American Bakers Association are all included on her CV. A consultant who has been involved with a variety industry organizations, Soyster thanked Chris Stinebert, Ken Reid, and Peggy Marilley for their mentorship and wonderful support over the years, and Tina Wehmeir for an amazing two years with AMCI.
“We appreciate everything Karin has
CBS News, “but we are now reaching out to attendees telling them, ‘You should not come.’”
He continued: “We are sharing that, in many cases, the hotels don’t want attendees to know about all of the services that are not covered or what kind of experience they will have in a hotel on strike.”
The union shared photos of trash, and used towels and linens outside of
accomplished during her time at the association and are grateful for her passion and service to AMCI members,” said AMCI President & CEO Tina Marie Wehmeir, CMP-F, CAE.“We wish her well in her retirement and are thrilled that she will continue to work with AMCI in a contracted capacity. This will allow for continued momentum in the organization.”
With aging parents and her husband in “semi” retirement, Soyster Fitzgerald said this seems like the right time to depart. Asked about her plans for retirement, she said: “After cleaning through my entire house from top to bottom… travel, travel, travel! My husband and I have parents on Cape Cod and in North Myrtle Beach. We’ll be able to spend more time with them, and then we will take advantage of trips around the world with several of our friends. Much of my time, however, will be spent contracting for AMCI. Being a contractor will a ord me more free time, though. Please turn to page 8
guest rooms at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square in a December 10 Facebook post. Recent Google reviews of the Westin show an increase in one-star reviews with many reviewers complaining they were not informed of the ongoing strike action outside the hotel in advance of their stay.
Requests for comment from J.P. Morgan went unanswered by press deadline.
California hoteliers gathered at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco at the 2024 Hotel All Stars awards luncheon, hosted by the California Hotel and Lodging Association, on December 6 to honor 144 hotel associates for their dedication to the state’s hotel industry throughout 2024.
Karin Fitzgerald
Child Dies from Falling Statue at Arizona Luxury Resort
By Jordan Bradley
An 8-year-old boy died a day after being struck by a falling statue at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix, authorities report.
On November 27, an outdoor statue at the historic hotel and luxury resort fell onto the child, later identified by the Maricopa County Medical Examiner as Luke Linnett of Waukee, Iowa. The accident caused him to suffer a serious head injury, according to reports from the Phoenix Police Department (PPD).
According to the PPD, responding o cers located the injured child on the
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tions and public relations, before being promoted to the executive leadership team as senior vice president, communications and regional strategy, in 2017. As the organization’s Chief Strategy O cer since 2020, Conway’s work has encompassed collaboration with Miller, the executive team, and the board of directors to ensure that Travel Portland’s structure and priorities are geared toward the economic success of Portland’s hospitality industry. Conway has directed communications and public relations, international tourism, the Regional Cooperative Tourism Program (RCTP), policy and research, events and visitor-facing sta , while also managing agency partnerships.
hotel property at approximately 8:45 a.m. and took him to a local hospital in critical condition.
The PPD released a statement the following day that Linnett succumbed to his injuries “and passed away at the hospital.” The department said there were no signs of foul play.
The Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s report ruled the cause of death as complications of blunt force trauma to the head.
“We aredeeplysaddened to learn of the family’s lossand extend our heartfelt condolences,” the Arizona Biltmore told USAE via email. “We wish them peace and respect their right to
“Megan has been an integral member of the Travel Portland executive team since 2020, helping guide our region’s vital hospitality industry during the most challenging period in its history,” said Miller. “Her unmatched leadership, insight and expertise—combined with her complete faith in Portland as a compelling destination—leave no doubt that she is the right individual to champion economic growth for Portland and the surrounding region through tourism.”
Conway is a member of the U.S. Travel Association Communications Council and was a member of its first class of Emerging Travel Leaders program. She’s a member and former chair of the Oregon Destination Association, an executive committee member of Sport Oregon, co-chair of
privacy during thisdi culttime.Our commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for our guests is paramount and we continue to cooperate fully with all authorities investigating this incident.”
It is unclear what prompted the statue to fall or whether Linnett was alone or with family at the time of the incident, according to authorities.
Linnett was known to have “a big heart and an even bigger sense of humor,” according to his obituary, and was “a budding athlete” who “organized football games every day” at recess. He is survived by his mother,
the Sports and Facility Committee for Expo Futures Project (Metro/MERC), and an advisor and founding member of the Portland chapter of Women in Sports and Events (WISE). She’s also an active participant of the Portland Lodging Alliance and of U.S. Travel Destination Capitol Hill.
“We searched the country to find the top talent for this position, and Megan was the hiring committee’s clear choice,” said Katen Patel, Chair of Travel Portland. “In her work and throughout the interview process, Megan distinguished herself with a consistent track record of delivering results, driving innovative strategy, and demonstrating deep knowledge of the industry and organization. We are confident she will lead our destination toward a vibrant future.”
Lauren, and two siblings.
The statue was one of 19 concrete “Solemn Sprite” statues across the property, according to the Arizona Biltmore’s website. The statues were originally created in 1914 by architect Frank Lloyd Wright in collaboration with artist Alfonso Ianelli for the Midway Gardens in Chicago.
The Gardens were demolished in 1929, and the Sprites vanished for a time until they were discovered on a farm in Wisconsin.
Wright’s widow requested that a mold be made of the statues, and a collection of the new statues were gifted to the Arizona Biltmore in 1985.
Destinations International Seeking Applications for 30 Under 30 Program
By Jonathan Trager
Destinations International (DI) has opened the application window for its 30 Under 30 program, the association announced in an email on December 11.
“We are excited to champion our industry’s rising stars through this exceptional professional development program o ering recognition, networking and professional growth,” according to the organization.
Launched in 2011, the program has benefitted more than 400 honorees to date. The application period is open through January 20.
Program benefits include:
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and welcoming the industry into our home, the branding opportunities at Drai’s are unsurpassed and the experience is first class.”
• Complimentary registration and hotel accommodations for 2025 DI Annual Convention in Chicago
• Year-round virtual educational programming, including monthly leadership workshops
• Discounted rate for attendance at one of DI’s online certificate courses such as Professional in Destination Management (PDM), Intellectual Capital Certificate (ICC), or Business Intelligence (BI)
• Access to thought leadership and speaking opportunities on behalf of the 30 Under 30 program
• Mentorship Program inclusion
• Access to networking with the 30 Under 30 alumni community
Testimonials from industry leaders were included as was a piece from Grace Schuler, a Drexel University Class of 2024 graduate, and recipient of the World Education Congress and KPMG Emerging Professionals scholarships, courtesy of the MPI Foundation.
Requirements & Criteria include:
• Candidates must be under the age of 30 at the time of application submission.
• Must presently work for a destination organization, convention and visitors bureau (CVB), or tourism board that is a member of Destinations International at the time of the submission deadline.
• If you are under 30 years of age and work for an organization that is an industry partner of DI, you are eligible to apply to join the young professional leadership development program alongside the 30 Under 30 class.
• Must have been an employee (part-time employment and intern-
“I believe with this career I can make a di erence that can improve lives,” she said. “Your generosity has inspired me to give back to the com- munity. I hope one day I will be able to help other students achieve their goals.”
Find more information at mpi.org/foundation
ships included) of a destination organization for at least 1.5 years, with a minimum of six months at your current organization as of the submission deadline.
• Nominees must have supervisor support in order to apply for the program.
• Submissions must include application, high-resolution headshot, resume, written responses, and video.
• Only one individual from an organization will be chosen if multiple applicants from the same destination organization are nominated.
To apply for the 2025 30 Under 30 program, visit www.destinationsinternational.org/30-under-30
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I also look forward to spending more time on my hobbies, including playing the piano and painting, and studying Italian and Spanish.”
Megan Conway
Resorts World Las Vegas Appoints New CEO, Establishes Board
By Jordan Bradley
Resorts World Las Vegas has appointed a new CEO, Las Vegas native Alex Dixon, and established its first Board of Directors.
The formation of the board is “a key part of our plan to further strengthen leadership and accelerate our growth strategy,” and “bolster the property’s government structure to help drive” its business strategy, the casino-resort said.
The property’s announcement regarding its newest CEO appointment did not mention Peter LaVoie, the Chief Financial Officer for Resorts World who had been serving as President since September 2023, when he replaced then-CEO Scott Sibella who was fired for violating company policy, according to reports from the Nevada Independent Property representatives did not return USAE request for comment regarding LaVoie by press deadline.
Dixon’s tenure with the property begins on January 16. Resorts World Las Vegas, owned by Genting Berhad, opened in 2021 with 3,500 guest rooms and suites, and gaming, convention, retail, food and beverage, and entertainment outlets.
“We have a bright future ahead of us, and I look forward to supporting and collaborating with Resorts World Las Vegas’ leadership alongside the Board to continue showcasing the best the Strip has to o er,” Dixon said. “We
have an incredible team of talented and committed employees throughout the organization and are confident we can achieve amazing things together.”
Dixon has acted as the President and CEO of the Dubuque Racing Association and Q Casino and Resort in Dubuque, Iowa since 2021, and has more than 20 years of combined global gaming, hospitality, entertainment, real estate and banking experience. Dixon has held positions at several Fortune 500 businesses, including MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, and Goldman Sachs & Co.
According to Q Casino and Resort, Dixon’s last day with the property will be January 13.
“We are sad to see Alex Dixon leave our community but know Resorts World International in Las Vegas is welcoming a tremendous leader,” Q Casino and Resort said. “Alex has done a lot for DRA and Q Casino + Resort during his time here. He has been a great ambassador for Dubuque, as well as the driving force behind the casino’s ongoing $83 million-plus renovation and expansion project.”
The inaugural Resorts World Las Vegas’ board is chaired by industry veteran Jim Murren, current CEO and Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Prior to his position there, Murren served as CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors at MGM Resorts from 2008–2020.
“As Resorts World Las Vegas contin-
ues to establish itself as the premier resort destination in Las Vegas, we are excited to welcome this group of industry leaders overseeing and guiding the Leadership Team to deliver unparalleled guest experiences while fostering our commitment to compliance,” said Kok Thay Lim, Chairman and Chief Executive of Malaysia-based Genting Berhad. “With over 40 years of collective experience in the global gaming and hospitality industry, we are confident that Alex and Jim, alongside the Board, will help drive the Company forward in pursuing our strategic goals for years to come.”
The newly established Resorts World Las Vegas Board of Directors includes A.G. Burnett, Partner, Gaming and Administrative Law Group with McDonald Carano; Michelle DiTondo, Principal Consultant, Avion Consulting; and Kong Han Tan, President, CEO and Executive Director of Genting Berhad. Members began their roles with the board on December 4.
The appointments come as the North Las Vegas property faces regulatory and financial challenges.
According to figures released by Genting Berhad, the hotel casino property reported nearly $177 million in revenue for the third quarter of 2024, a decrease of more than 23% from the same timeframe in 2023. The figures reflect the “worst financial quarter in two years” for the casino-resort, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal
Genting attributed this to “an abnormally hot summer” for the city “and economic uncertainty in an election year.”
In August, the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) also filed a disciplinary complaint alleging Resorts World permitted illegal bookmakers and individuals suspected of having ties to illegal gambling to make wagers in the property’s casino.
“The culture within Resorts World created the perception, or the reality in certain circumstances, that Resorts World is an avenue to launder funds derived from illegal activity,” the NCGB said at the time.
Alex Dixon
Harrah’s Reimagined.
Upscale accommodations, celebrity chef restaurants and countless indulgences all conveniently connected to the elegant new CAESARS FORUM conference center.
