32 minute read
USAE Issue 2.17.25
FEMA Reclaims Money Previously Designated to Hotels Sheltering Migrants
By Jordan Bradley
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) unilaterally rescinded more than $80 million from New York City intended to support housing for migrants in the city’s hotels.
The city of New York has leased several budget hotels and vacant buildings over the last two years for use as shelters for migrants and asylum seekers.
The city was awarded funding packages from the Biden Administration, one for $59 million and another for $21.5 million, to support migrant shelters, Brad Lander, New York City Comptroller, told the Associated Press
But following a post to social media from Elon Musk, the head of the Department of Government Efficiency, claiming that money had been used to house migrants in “luxury hotels,” FEMA rescinded the funds, which had only been distributed the week prior.
Musk did not offer evidence to support his claim.
According to court documents filed February 11, FEMA rescinded the funds over concerns about “illegal activities at a hotel,” the Associated Press reports.
“I have clawed back the full payment that FEMA deep state activists unilaterally gave to N.Y.C. migrant hotels,” said Kristi Noem, Homeland Security Secretary, in a February 12 post on X. “Mark my words: there will not be a single penny spent that goes against the interest and safety of the American people.”
In a February 12 statement, Lander said: “This morning, my financial team shockingly uncovered that President Trump and his crony Elon Musk illegally executed a revocation of $80 million in congressionally-appropriated FEMA funding from New York City’s bank accounts late yesterday afternoon. This is money that the federal government previously disbursed for shelter and services and is now missing. This highway robbery of our funds directly out of our bank account is a betrayal of everyone who calls New York City home.”
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said in a February 11 press release that four FEMA employees were terminated for “circumventing leadership to unilaterally make egregious payments for luxury NYC hotels for migrants.”
The DHS statement also noted that the department will “not sit idly and allow deep state activists to undermine the will and safety of the American people,” referencing a conspiracy theory that argues that a network of collaborators exist within the United States government and intend the country harm.
Under city law, New York’s status as a sanctuary city requires it to offer shelter to anyone in need.
New York City officials are conducting an “internal investigation into how this occurred,” and “exploring various litigation options,” representatives told the New York Times.
American Bar Association Sues Administration over USAID Dismantling
Shows Support for Rule of Law
By Todd McElwee
On February 11, the American Bar Association and seven co-plaintiffs filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court District Of Columbia challenging the Trump Administration’s freeze on foreign assistance funding. The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has been targeted by the White House in recent weeks.
“In an unprecedented series of actions, the President and other executive-branch officials have sought to dismantle an independent agency established by Congress and withhold billions of dollars in congressionally appropriated foreign assistance funding,” the lawsuit stated. “One cannot overstate the impact of that unlawful course of conduct: on businesses large and small forced to shut down their programs and let employees go; on hungry children across the globe who will go without; on populations around the world facing deadly disease; and on our constitutional order.”
William R. Bay, President of the American Bar Association, said: “The actions of the president and other executive branch officials to dismantle the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which was established by Congress to administer billions of dollars of foreign assistance funding, is unprecedented. The American Bar Association cannot overstate the impact of this unlawful course of conduct. This administration seeks to halt funding even though Congress has authorized and appropriated it for the programs in question.”
The association noted through its partnership with USAID, Department of State, and other agencies, it trains lawyers and judges around the world in their efforts to create functioning and fair justice systems.
“A strong rule of law and participatory democracies around the world create more favorable environments for U.S. interests and enhance the viability of global markets,” Bay said.
“The ABA strengthens legal institutions, supports legal professionals and advances public understanding and appreciation for the law. In doing so, these programs help reduce and prevent illicit activities such as drug and human trafficking and money laundering from reaching American shores.”
The Global Health Council, American Small Business Association for International Companies, HIAS, Management Sciences For Health, Inc., Chemonics International, Inc., DAI Global, LLC, and Democracy International, Inc. joined the American Bar Association in the lawsuit.
Rule of Law
Bay also recently penned a statement showing the association’s support for the rule of law.
Bay noted attempts to dismantle departments and entities created by Congress without seeking the required congressional approval to change the law. He said more than a dozen lawsuits have been filed alleging the administration’s actions violate the rule of law and are contrary to the Constitution or the nation’s laws.
“It has been three weeks since Inauguration Day,” Bay wrote. “Most Americans recognize that newly elected leaders bring change. That is expected. But most Americans also expect that changes will take place in accordance with the rule of law and in an orderly manner that respects the lives of affected individuals and the work they have been asked to perform.
“Instead, we see wide-scale affronts to the rule of law itself, such as attacks on constitutionally protected birthright citizenship, the dismantling of USAID and the attempts to criminalize those who support lawful programs to eliminate bias and enhance diversity.”
He highlighted that when U.S. District Judge John Coughenour rejected citizenship challenges, he said that the rule of law is, according to this administration, something to navigate around or simply ignore. “Nevertheless,” he said, “in this courtroom and under my watch, the rule of law is a bright beacon which I intend to follow.”
“He is correct,” Bay said. “The rule of law is a bright beacon for our country.”
Calling on his membership, Bay concluded: “We urge every attorney to join us and insist that our government, a government of the people, follow the law. It is part of the oath we took when we became lawyers. Whatever your political party or your views, change must be made in the right way. Americans expect no less.”
Find more at americanbar.org
Daniel Kuperschmid Appointed President & CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority
By Todd McElwee
Daniel Kuperschmid has been appointed President & CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA. A 30-year Hyatt Hotels executive, he previously served as Vice President Global Asset Management, Hyatt Hotels Corp., where he managed a global portfolio of 42 hotels.
Kuperschmid will take the helm March 24.
“Tourism is a powerful economic engine that creates jobs and enriches both our visitors and residents,” Kuperschmid said. “I’m grateful for SDTA’s Board of Directors confidence in me, and I look forward to working with the talented SDTA team to further establish San Diego’s position as a premier global destination.”
He added: “After 30 years with Hyatt, I am incredibly grateful for the experiences and relationships that shaped my career in hospitality and tourism. “Hyatt taught me the power of exceptional service, collaboration and innovation — values I look forward to continuing at the San Diego Tourism Authority. The team at SDTA has done an outstanding job in making San Diego one of the top destinations in the U.S., and I am honored to build upon their efforts.”
Kuperschmid has been an active volunteer in San Diego’s travel industry, having served on the SDTA Board of Directors, including as Board Chair from 2019 - 2023. During his time as chair, he was instrumental in selecting Julie Coker as SDTA’s President & CEO, who led the organization from 2020 -2024. Alongside Coker and the SDTA Board of Directors, Kuperschmid played a vital role in guiding San Diego’s tourism community during the pandemic and in the recovery period, the CVB said. His community leader-
ship extends to serving on the advisory committee for the Yes for a Better San Diego campaign, supporting the San Diego Convention Center expansion, and the San Diego Tourism Marketing District Board of Directors.
Kuperschmid graduated from Johnson & Wales University.
“Tourism is a critical economic engine of our city, generating $22 billion in economic activity and shaping our future growth,” said Shawn Dixon, SDTA Board Chair and COO of the San
Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. “Daniel’s experience and leadership will further unite our tourism community and elevate our destination, strengthening San Diego’s position as a world-class destination.”
His appointment as SDTA President and CEO follows a comprehensive four-month national search led by SearchWide Global in partnership with an executive search committee comprised of regional tourism and business leaders.
Hotel Fees Transparency Act Passes Senate Committee, Moves to Full Senate
By Jordan Bradley
The Hotel Fees Transparency Act (HFTA) passed with unanimous approval out of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation on February 5.
The bipartisan bill now goes to the full Senate for consideration.
HFTA “will lower costs and improve transparency by requiring anyone advertising a hotel room or short term rental to clearly show the final price a customer will pay to book lodging, including any fees,” according to the bill’s co-sponsor U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.).
“Traveling is expensive, and hidden fees make it difficult to compare prices and understand the true cost of a reservation,” said Klobuchar. “Our bipartisan bill will lower costs for hotel rooms and short-term rentals by increasing transparency and banning hidden fees.”
The bill has received support from both the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) and Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) since its introduction mid-December last year.
“AAHOA remains committed to advocating for policies that benefit both hotel owners and consumers,” said Laura Lee Blake, AAHOA President & CEO. “The passage of this bill through committee is a crucial step toward eliminating confusion caused by hidden fees and fostering greater transparency in the marketplace.”
Rosanna Maietta, President & CEO of AHLA said that association, “has led the charge in establishing a federal standard to provide travelers with consistent, upfront pricing,” in order to bring clarity to hotel guests looking to book stays.
“We strongly believe that all consumers deserve transparency in the booking process, no matter where they choose to book their stays,” said Maietta. “This legislation establishes a single federal standard for mandatory fee display that will ensure guests everywhere can make informed decisions when booking lodging.”
Over the last two years, AHLA said, the association has also supported the No Hidden FEES Act, which passed the House of Representatives last June and goes into effect June 2025.
The Federal Trade Commission also established a new rule surrounding “junk fees” – undeclared fees tacked onto a hotel or flight booking that are only revealed at the end of a transaction – in mid-December 2024 that requires businesses to prominently display the total price. The rule goes into effect this May.
Destination DC Announces 2025 Ambassador Circle Awardees
By Todd McElwee
Honoring leaders, researchers and visionaries who elevate Washington, D.C. as an impactful destination for meetings and events while showcasing the capital’s talent, Destination DC (DDC) recently announced its 2025 Ambassador Circle Award recipients during a luncheon at the Willard InterContinental. The DC Tech & Venture Coalition and Washington D.C. Economic Partnership also presented awards for ambassadors who champion the District.
“Our Ambassador Circle members have community connections that allow them to advocate for Washington, D.C. in the competitive meetings arena,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, President & CEO, DDC. “Their deep knowledge and network, whether that be in healthcare, sustainability, biotechnology or education, shows the vast intellectual capital in our city. Their partnership allows meetings and events to positively impact the local economy, the community and put D.C. on the short list of premier destinations.”
The Ambassador Circle works with DDC to endorse the nation’s capital as a leader in multiple industries, to drive the local economy and to create awareness of Destination DC’s services. The volunteer network of professionals includes experts in a variety of sectors such as medical, biotech/pharma, technology, sustainability, education, transportation and fintech working together to amplify D.C.’s appeal.
The International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) is the Impact Award honoree for its ISTH 2025 Congress. The award recognizes an organization which is hosting an upcoming conference that promises to deliver significant economic and social benefits for the city.
“The ISTH is honored to be recognized with Destination DC’s Ambassador Circle Award,” said Lisa Astorga, ISTH Director of Meetings. “We are excited to host the ISTH 2025 Congress in Washington, D.C., where thousands of the world’s leading experts on thrombosis, hemostasis and vascular biology will convene for an extensive scientific program, from educational sessions to industry exhibits and professional networking opportunities. Destination DC has been an excellent collaborative partner, and we look forward to our international attendees experiencing the vibrant and unique culture of Washington, D.C.”
Highlighting an individual who helps DDC make connections through their existing networks and is a champion of the CVB’s work and a steadfast supporter of the Ambassador Circle program is the Connector Award.
Andrew Flagel, PhD, President & CEO, Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area is the recipient.
“I am honored to receive the Connector Award from Destination DC on behalf of our Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area representing over 300,000 students and more than 100,000 employees,” said Flagel. “We are deeply proud of our region, and passionate about encouraging organizations worldwide to join us for conferences and events in this vibrant center of innovation and culture, as they have for the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities annual meeting and the American Council for Education national conference.”
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and World Veterinary Association’s (WVA) AVMA Convention 2025 and the 40th WVA Congress is the Leadership Award honoree. It recognizes ambassadors who have demonstrated exceptional guidance, strategic vision and impactful leadership in collaboratively organizing a global conference.
DDC’s Ambassador(s) of the Year is IMS2024 Co-Chairs for IEEE MTT-S International Microwave Symposium. Scott Barker, General Co-Chair, IMS2024, Washington, D.C.; and Sanjay Raman, General Co-Chair, IMS2024, Washington, D.C., were honored for chairing the event.
“We were thrilled to partner with Destination DC to bring the IEEE International Microwave Symposium (IMS) back to Washington, D.C. after more than 40 years,” said Barker. “Washington, D.C. is an incredible city with a wealth of outstanding venues for hosting an event like the IMS. Our attendees come from around the world and thoroughly enjoyed both the conference and the opportunity to explore D.C. The only challenge is that with so many great venues, it's impossible to see them all in one visit. Fortunately, we look forward to bringing the IEEE IMS back to Washington, D.C. in 2029.”
The DC Tech & Venture Coalition Ambassador of the Year is Michelle Boquiren Urben, Managing and General Partner, The Synergos Fund. She’s positioned Washington, D.C., as a premier destination for global innovation and opportunity.
Olivia S. Byrne, J.D., LLM, Partner, K&L Gates LLP, is the Washington DC Economic Partnership Ambassador of the Year. The honor recognizes a dedicated ambassador and advocate who has championed inclusive economic development throughout the District.
HOTS
What dog doesn’t love going for a walk? And now, Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston is helping them walk down the aisle… no, not to get hitched themselves… but to be a witness for a wedding. “The Pawfect Union” package includes a pre-wedding bath at Onyva dog spa (for the dog, not the couple), custom faux floral collar in the couple’s wedding colors (again, for the dog and not the bride and groom), a ceremonial marriage certificate for to “paw-tograph,” photo session, suite assignment in the Catie Copley Suite for the night of the wedding and commissioned custom wedding portrait illustration featuring the couple and four-legged friend. The hotel’s Canine Ambassador, Cori Copley, is available should the happy couple not be dog owners. HOTS doesn’t have a bone to pick with this offering.
HOTS Proposes in Space ... Beginning this September, a Parisian surprise-proposal company, ApoteoSurprise, is offering an experience that is truly out of this world: the chance to propose in space. Would-be-proposers of marriage and their honeys will board “a sleep, spherical space capsule” the center of which will be a dining space with a “table set with the elegance of Paris’s finest restaurants.” The experience isn’t complete without the capsule’s AI-powered robot, StellarEmbrace, who will serve the stellar couple drinks and “freshly baked croissants” during the two-hour ascent to the spaceport, which sits just at the threshold of Earth’s stratosphere. Once at the port, StellarEmbrace will serve the couple a five-course gourmet meal prepared by “a renowned French chef with two Michelin stars” and consisting of soufflé scallops, lobster and truffles duo, matured caviar with milk flower, honey glazed roast supreme, and grapefruit crisp. Just before dessert, StellarEmbrace will “cheekily” interrupt the couple’s meal to prompt the proposal. For those intrepid travelers, more can be found at apoteosurprise.com, but HOTS will believe this stellar production when HOTS sees it.
Visit Atlantic City Brings DO AC Under its Umbrella
By Todd McElwee
Creating cohesion on the coast, Visit Atlantic City has integrated the DO AC brand and assets under the Visit Atlantic City name. The strategic move combines meetings and leisure marketing, and communications efforts to create a unified destination brand.
“Uniting the DO AC and Visit Atlantic City brands under one umbrella marks a pivotal moment for Atlantic City,” said Gary Musich, President & CEO of Visit Atlantic City. “The move allows us to speak as a stronger, united voice, streamlining our efforts in amplifying Atlantic City’s appeal as a premier destination for leisure and business travelers. It also enables us to deliver a greater economic impact for our community.”
Rebranding efforts began in 2022 when Meet AC transitioned to Visit Atlantic City. The integration continued in 2024 with the consolidation of leisure marketing efforts, which included integrating both Simpleview Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems and Content Management System (CMS) platforms with DO AC to create a single website, VisitAtlanticCity.com. For the first time in 13 years, the site now features a booking engine, bringing leisure and meetings marketing together under one destination brand among all audiences.
At its recent Annual Meeting, Visit Atlantic City also debuted its new Spring/Summer marketing campaigns and destination video highlighting “Where Celebrations Live On” and “Create Memory Making Moments” based on qualitative and quantitative creative testing research conducted by Future Partners.
“We are thrilled to launch new leisure advertising in the marketplace,” said Karina Anthony, Executive Director of Marketing at Visit Atlantic City. “The creative testing results are encouraging, with interest in visiting Atlantic City and enthusiasm for leisure travel to the destination both on the rise following exposure to the tested creative.”
The integration builds upon leisure efforts previously undertaken by the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA), with Visit Atlantic City assuming full responsibility for promoting the destination.
“This move will have a lasting impact on Visit Atlantic City’s destination leisure marketing efforts,” said CRDA Executive Director Eric Scheffler. “Visit Atlantic City is laser-focused on providing one brand voice in messaging and our visitors will be able to access all the latest information on events and activities in one place at www.visitatlanticcity. com .”
Find more at visitatlanticcity.com
Istanbul Hosting MPI’s European Meetings & Events Conference
By Todd McElwee
Continents meet in Istanbul, and from February 22 – 25, the meetings industry is too.
Returning to Türkiye for the first time since 2014, MPI’s European Meetings & Events Conference (EMEC) is heading to the shores of the Bosporus with a complete slate of education, networking, cultural immersions and commerce on the schedule.
The Istanbul Lutfi Kirdar International Convention & Exhibition Center is hosting.
“At EMEC İstanbul, event professionals from across Europe and beyond converge to push the boundaries of what meetings and events can achieve,” organizers said. “Set against the unforgettable backdrop of İstanbul, this event will blend diverse ideas and perspectives to foster new connections, inspiration and innovation.”
Four plenary speakers top the educational marquee: Filiz Akdede, Global VP, 3D Business, HP; Dr. Elif Balcı Fisunoğlu, Vice General Manager, Tourism Operations and Development, Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency; Richard Newman, Founder and CEO, UK Body Talk Ltd.; and Nils Roemen, Experience Designer, Experience Experts.
Akdede will explore AI, 3D developments, trends and innovation. In “Pathways to Sustainability: National Sustainable Tourism Program of Türkiye,” Fisunoğlu will highlight her nation’s green efforts. Roemen will share how to create events that leave indelible marks with enlightened and effective communication Newman’s specialty.
Designed to immerse attendees in the local culture, EMEC’s Learning Journeys include a quintet of excursions throughout the ancient city.
During The Timeless Passage: Unity Candle Lighting Ceremony, participants will light candles as a symbol of unity and harmony while cruising under the Bosphorus bridges. This ceremony symbolizes the connection between Europe and Asia, highlighting the cultural and geographical significance of the waterway, MPI said.
Fragments of Harmony: Mosaic Art in the Heart of History will allow attendees to engage in a hands-on mosaic workshop set in the historic Zeyrek Çinili Hamam. Participants will create their own mosaic art pieces and learn about the cultural depth of the hamam (Turkish bath).
Exploring the vibrant streets of İstiklal and the historic Pera Palace, where writers like Agatha Christie once found inspiration, Mysteries and Memories: Cocktail Workshop at The Pera Palace will feature a guided walking tour with a creative cocktail session.
Hosted at The Peninsula Hotel, The Art of Türkish Coffee: Bridging Tradition and Modernity will teach participants about the history, techniques, and etiquette of Türkish coffee while exploring new flavors and interpretations.
“This hands-on atelier (workshop) provides an immersive experience that bridges the timeless tradition of Türkish coffee with modern tastes, allowing participants to connect with İstanbul’s heritage through a unique blend of culture and innovation,” MPI said.
Those partaking in Flavours of the Crossroads: A Culinary Journey Through İstiklal’s Hidden Gems will sample lesser-known culinary treasures showcasing Türkiye’s diverse flavors while learning about İstiklal’s rich history as a cultural crossroads.
A hosted buyer program, Future Leaders Forum, opening and closing parties and MPI Foundation’s Rendezvous round out the EMEC.
Find more at emec.mpi.org
HSMAI to Host Adrian Awards, Announces Gold Winners
By Jordan Bradley
The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) will host the 2024 Adrian Awards, recognizing success and innovation in advertising, marketing, public relations and integrated campaigns in hospitality on February 18 at the New York Marriott Marquis.
In advance of the 68th annual awards event, HSMAI announced the Adrian Gold Award, recognizing a group of 80 “outstanding campaigns,” the association said.
“The Adrian Awards continue to recognize the most groundbreaking and impactful marketing in the hospitality industry,” said Brian Hicks, President & CEO of HSMAI. “This year’s Gold winners have demonstrated remarkable creativity and strategic vision, setting new standards for excellence in travel marketing. We look forward to celebrating their achievements in a few days and unveiling the top honors at the awards ceremony.”
At the awards ceremony, attendees will have the opportunity to see Gold Award winners’ work, and HSMAI will reveal the Platinum and Best of Show winners selected from the Gold winners.
During the Adrian Awards, HSMAI will honor career achievement awardees Michelle Woodley, President of Preferred Travel Group, for the Albert E. Koehl Award for Hospitality Marketing, and Victoria de Falco, Principal and Co-Founder of Redpoint Marketing PR Inc., for the Winthrop W. Grice Award for Public Relations.
HSMAI said it will also pay special tribute to the legacy of the late Bob Gilbert, HSMAI’s long-standing President & CEO until his retirement last July. He passed away last September.
The association said it will share Gold Award winners campaigns on their website following the Adrian Awards.
For more information and to see the full list of Gold Award winners, visit adrianawards.hsmai.org.
Watergate Hotel Reports Data Breach
By Jordan Bradley
The Watergate Hotel in Washington, D.C. reported on February 10 a data breach to its systems on April 6.
According to the notice from the Watergate, it’s possible the breach compromised hotel guests’ personal information including any combination of their Social Security numbers, driver’s license and/or other government-issued identification numbers, financial account and payment card information.
Though the Watergate’s notice did not specify whether hotel employees’ data was impacted, the property did note that it was possible that health insurance and/or medical information had been compromised by the breach.
The hotel said it has begun to notify customers who may have been impacted by sending direct letters to customers for whom the hotel has home addresses.
According to the notice, “Watergate identified suspicious activity on our network” on April 6, and “immediately took steps to secure our environment and launched an investigation into the nature and scope of the activity.”
The hotel found that “an unknown actor” breached the hotel’s computer security systems, and was able to view or download files. Following that discovery, the Watergate “undertook a comprehensive review of the files” to determine what and who was impacted. On December 9, the hotel completed the review “and determined that the impacted dataset contained information related to certain individuals.”
Representatives from Watergate did not respond to USAE request for clarification regarding the number of customers impacted.
Boy Scouts of America Officially Becomes Scouting America
By Todd McElwee
The Boy Scouts of America celebrated its 115th anniversary on February 8 by adopting a new name: Scouting America. The rebrand was initially announced last May.
Scouting America said the birthday marks “a pivotal moment in the organization’s journey,” adding that it continues to adapt to meet the evolving needs of young people, ensuring future generations have the opportunity to benefit from this “transformative program.”
“Scouting America has helped instill timeless values for multiple generations of Americans,” said Roger Krone, Scouting America President & CEO. “In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the values and skills instilled by Scouting are more critical than ever and the need for strong character, ethical decision-making and effective leadership remains paramount. As we celebrate 115 years of service to our nation, we are reaffirming our commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment where young people can develop these essential qualities, empowering them to reach their full potential and preparing them to become responsible and engaged citizens.”
More than 130 million Americans have been through Scouting America programs since its founding in 1910, the organization said. Currently, north of 1 million youth are served by 477,000 adult volunteers in local councils throughout the country.
Hunter Hotel Conference Announces Host Hotels Exec as Headline Speaker
By Jordan Bradley
The Hunter Hotel Investment Conference announced on February 12 that James “Jim” F. Risoleo, President & CEO, Host Hotels & Resorts, will headline the Bharat Shah Leadership Speaker Series at its 2025 conference on March 20 at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis.
Host Hotels & Resorts is the largest lodging real estate investment trust, owning a portfolio of luxury and upper-upscale hotels. Risoleo joined the company in 1996, before eventually stepping into the role of president and CEO in 2017.
The series of discussions is named for Bharat Shah, a former research scientist in the food industry who pivoted to real estate investment in 1979. The speaker series is designed to highlight “icons who have profoundly shaped their industries and communities,”
The discussion will be moderated by Mit Shah, Founder & CEO of Noble Investment Group.
“Jim and I have shared a deep bond and friendship throughout my career, during which I’ve had the privilege of witnessing his dynamic vision, unwavering leadership and remarkable generosity,” said Shah. “His ability to propel Host Hotels & Resorts to extraordinary success is a testament to his strategic brilliance and deep expertise. More than that, Jim embodies the very essence of servant leadership, always championing our industry and inspiring those around him to reach new heights.”
Risoleo is the latest trailblazer to be highlighted among a group of well-known and influential individuals within the hotel industry.
Past headline speakers for the series include the late Arne Sorenson, President & CEO of Marriott International; Chris Nassetta, President & CEO of Hilton; Mark Hoplamazian, President & CEO of Hyatt Hotels Corporation; Geoff Ballotti, President & CEO of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts; and most recently, Leslie Hale, President & CEO of RLJ Lodging Trust.
“Each year, Mit invites us into the living rooms of our country’s most influential leaders, allowing us to witness the personal and professional journeys that have defined them,” said Lee Hunter, chairman of the Hunter Hotel Investment Conference. “Jim’s story, his insights and the leadership lessons he has cultivated throughout his remarkable career will leave an indelible impact on our students and conference attendees, inspiring them to carve out their own paths to success.”
Risoleo’s leadership discussion will be held during the Hunter Investment Conference at 10:30 a.m. For more information about the conference’s schedule of events, visit www.hunterconference.com
Smithbucklin Adds Trio of Leaders to Association Management Services
By Todd McElwee
A trio of industry veterans have been enlisted by Smithbucklin to provide leadership and experience to its association management business. The firm said the hires reinforce a commitment to delivering expertise and innovation to unlock potential.
Jeremy Van Ek has been named COO, Association Management, and Jeff Hartney has been named Senior Vice President, Association Management. Additionally, Kirsten Shaffer, CAE, has been named Client Network Lead for one of three Healthcare and Clinical Administration networks.
Based in Chicago, Van Ek will lead efforts to modernize and transform Smithbucklin’s association management approach, focusing on client growth and operational excellence. He joins Smithbucklin’s Corporate Management Team and reports to Matt Sanderson, President and CEO.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jeremy to Smithbucklin,” said Sanderson. “His deep expertise in strategy, financial performance, and operational transformation will be instrumental in evolving our approach to association management. Jeremy’s leadership will help us enhance our service model, formalize our membership engagement methodology, and drive meaningful growth for the associations we serve.”
Van Ek brings more than 20 years of experience in professional services, marketing, and association management. Most recently, he served as COO at the American Marketing Association (AMA), where he led various functions including strategy, governance, technology, finance, and operations.
During a leadership transition, he also served as Acting CEO for 13 months, achieving revenue growth and exceeding operating profit targets.
Prior to AMA, Van Ek held executive roles at professional services and marketing firms. As CFO at Trisect, a Chicago-based digital and retail marketing agency, he spearheaded growth initiatives and led the company through an acquisition. At Edelman, the world’s largest public relations firm, he served as senior vice president, global business solutions. He overhauled global operations and led change initiatives to improve efficiency and impact.
Van Ek holds a master’s degree from University at Buffalo and a bachelor’s degree from Hope College. Hartney is 10-year veteran of Smithbucklin and will lead the overall Association Management network structure and delivery model. He will continue to oversee one of the company’s Trade Association networks while also supporting all Client Network Leads in their roles.
He joined Smithbucklin as Executive Director of BISA, a financial services industry association focused on marketing, sales, and distribution of financial products through banks and credit unions. For the past two years, he has served as a Client Network Lead, overseeing a network of 10 trade associations.
Shaffer has been named Client Network Lead for one of three Healthcare and Clinical Administration networks, effective January 1. She will continue to serve as Executive Director of the National Association Medical Staff Services (NAMSS) while providing strategic oversight for Smithbucklin’s healthcare association clients.
With 13 years at Smithbucklin, Shaffer has worked with multiple healthcare associations, including NAMSS, NAHAM, NCCAOM, and ASBMR.
“These leadership updates reflect our continued investment in association management expertise, ensuring that our clients and prospective partners benefit from top-tier leadership and innovative solutions,” said Sanderson. “These leaders bring deep experience and a shared commitment to client growth and success, positioning us to deliver even greater impact for the associations we serve.”
Hyatt to Acquire Playa Hotels for $2.6 Billion
Agreement Draws Scrutiny of Firms Representing Shareholders
By Jordan Bradley
Following weeks of exclusive acquisition discussions, Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V. announced on February 10 that Hyatt will move forward with the purchase of Playa for $2.6 billion.
Per the terms of the cash agreement, Hyatt will acquire the all-inclusive resort owner and operator’s outstanding shares for $13.50 per share as well as approximately $900 million in debt, Hyatt said.
Playa owns and/or operates 24 all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica.
Hyatt said the acquisition is just the next chapter in its pursuit of expansion for its all-inclusive portfolio of hotels and resorts.
The pair have collaborated since 2013, when Hyatt invested in the all-inclusive company, resulting in the launch of the Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara brands.
“We have respected and benefitted from Playa’s operating expertise and outstanding guest experience delivery for years through their ownership and management of eight of our Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara hotels,” said Mark Hoplamazian, President & CEO at Hyatt. “This pending transaction allows us to broaden our portfolio while providing more value to all of our stakeholders through an expanded management platform for all-inclusive resorts.”
Hyatt, an asset-light hotel company, said it “intends to identify third-part buyers for Playa’s owned properties,” and anticipates “at least $2 billion of profits” from the sale of those properties by the end of 2027.
Playa Hotels & Resorts Chairman and CEO Bruce D. Wardinski said the acquisition agreement was reached “following a deliberate and comprehensive review of opportunities” by Playa’s board of directors that began in late December last year.
“As a result of our robust process and engagement with a number of potential counterparties, we are confident that this transaction maximizes shareholder value,” Wardinski said. “The transaction will deliver to Playa shareholders a 40% premium to the Company’s unaffected stock price prior to the disclosure of exclusive discussions with Hyatt.”
However, at least three law firms –Halper Sadeh LLC, Brodsky& Smith, and Monteverde & Associates PC –have released statements calling into question the legality of the merger. The firms announced investigations into the agreement, calling into question whether shareholders are receiving fair value for their shares.
In a February 10 release, Halper Sadeh said: “The investigation concerns whether Playa and its board of directors violated the federal securities laws and/or breached their fiduciary duties to shareholders by failing to, among other things: (1) obtain the best possible consideration for Playa shareholders; (2) determine whether Hyatt is underpaying for Playa; and (3) disclose all material information necessary for Playa shareholders to adequately assess and value the merger consideration.”
Representatives from Playa did not return USAE request for comment regarding the investigations by press deadline.
Hyatt anticipates the acquisition to close later this year following Playa shareholder and regulatory approval, and other customary closing conditions, the hotel brand said.
USAE Contacts
Ross E. Heller, Publisher-Emeritus
Publisher James Heller james@usaenews.com
Associate Publisher Todd McElwee todd@usaenews.com
Managing Editor Jonathan Trager jon@usaenews.com
Hotel Editor Jordan Bradley jordan@usaenews.com
Creative Director Diane Nichols dkn@usaenews.com
Marketing & Circulation Director Christy Pumphrey christy@usaenews.com
USAE, Inc.
