Destinations International Announces 2025 Hall of Fame Inductees, Leadership Award Recipients
By Jonathan Trager
Destinations International (DI) announced on June 13 the recipients of its annual awards program, including the 2025 Hall of Fame inductees, Spirit of Hospitality Award, Destination Organization Leadership Awards, and Destination Organization Leadership Award for Global Impact.
The recipients will be honored during the Recognition Celebration session at the 2025 DI Annual Convention in Chicago on July 9.
“It is a true privilege to honor these extraordinary leaders whose dedication and achievements have shaped not only their individual destinations but the travel and tourism industry as a whole,” said Don Welsh, Presi-
Man Gets 18 Years for Hostage Incident at St. Louis Hotel
By Jordan Bradley
The man behind a several-hour standoff and hostage situation at the Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch was sentenced earlier this month to serve 18 years in prison.
William John Gourley, 44, of Arnold, Missouri, was initially charged with three counts of first-degree kidnapping, two counts of endangering the welfare of a child, one count of unlawful possession of a firearm, and five counts of armed criminal action for holding a woman and two children
hostage in the hotel, according to court documents.
In the early morning hours of January 24, 2024, the St. Louis Police Department (SLDP) received a call at around 5:15 a.m. from a young boy who said he and his brother were locked inside a bathroom while a man with a weapon was fighting with their mother in the hotel room, according to local reports.
Gourley held the two children for more than an hour before the SLPD could negotiate their release. He held the woman for more
dent & CEO of DI. “In a time of rapid change and evolving global dynamics, leadership rooted in vision, resilience and commitment is more vital than ever. Each of this year’s honorees embodies these qualities, leaving a profound impact on our industry’s growth and innovation. I extend my sincere appreciation to the Destinations International Awards Committee Please turn to page 7
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Hyatt Completes Acquisition of Playa Hotels & Resorts
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Hyatt Centric Chicago O’Hare Completes Renovation
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Hotels Reportedly Pilot Paid Breakfast
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Brittany Packnett Cunningham Explores Confidence During WEC Keynote
Days after updating guidance exempting hotels from immigration raids, officials in President Donald Trump’s administration walked back the exemption, leaving hotel workers in Southern California with sustained fear and whiplash.
In recent weeks, Trump directed federal immigration agents to focus deportation raids in California, including Los Angeles, San Diego, and rural areas in an effort to reach increased arrest quotas. According to CBS News, so far this month, there have been an average of 1,300 arrests carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) each day, almost twice the number of arrests as Trump’s first 100 days in office. The increased frequency and heavy-handedness of ICE raids in L.A. led to protests.
But at a recent White House event, the president appeared to reverse and curb some directives.
“We can’t take farmers and take all their people and send them back because they don’t have, maybe, what
Magic Johnson Headlining ASAE Annual Meeting’s Speaking Lineup
By Todd McElwee
ASAE’s Annual Meeting & Exposition will include a touch of magic—Earvin “Magic” Johnson, specifically. The Los Angeles Lakers’ legend will present the opening keynote on August 10.
“When associations come together to Imagine the Possibilities, we unlock new potential to lead positive change — not just within our organizations, but across industries, communities, and the world,” said
ASAE President & CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE. “In times of rapid change, the association sector’s unique ability to convene, collaborate, and drive solutions has never been more essential.”
A member of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, Johnson is a fivetime NBA champion, 12time All Star, three-time MVP and member of the 1992 Olympic Dream Team, which won the gold medal in Barcelona.
Paul Van Deventer, President & CEO, MPI (front row left); Rob Adams, CEO, Bishop-McCann, MPI Chair (front row, far left), and the association’s International Board of Directors at the World Education Congress in St. Louis. The event ran from June 18–20.
Brand USA Introduces America the Beautiful Global Tourism Campaign
By Todd McElwee
Designed to showcase the best of the United States and drive international inbound travel in 2025 and beyond, the America the Beautiful global tourism campaign was introduced by Brand USA on June 16.
Fred Dixon, President & CEO, Brand USA, discussed the initiative during U.S. Travel Association’s IPW, at McCormick Place in Chicago.
“As we set our sights on 2026 and beyond, we’re proud to announce America the Beautiful — a bold and unprecedented global tourism campaign,” said Dixon. “There’s never been a better time to explore the beauty and energy of the USA, which continues to be the world’s most aspirational long-haul travel destination. With this campaign, we’re sending a clear message: the USA is open for business and ready to welcome legitimate international travelers. We’re confident this effort will spark renewed interest and deepen connections with audiences around the world.”
Launching in August, Brand USA said America the Beautiful is a flexible, emotionally motivating platform designed to reignite passion for U.S. travel and remind global visitors of the richness, warmth, and diversity of America. It will be supported by a dedicated digital hub, AmericaTheBeautiful.com, which leverages artificial intelligence in partnership with Mindtrip to personalize and enhance the traveler journey.
“This campaign is a storytelling platform that will give the world a fresh lens through which to see the United States,” said Leah Chandler, Chief Marketing Officer of Brand USA. “We’re tapping into nostalgia and curiosity, the same feelings that have always drawn travelers to the United States. And it’s built to be scalable— allowing our partners to integrate, collaborate, and amplify our shared message worldwide.”
In addition, Brand USA has partnered with the U.S. Department of Transportation to promote The Great American Road Trip to international travelers, featuring 250 points of
interest across the country.
In Fiscal Year 2024, Brand USA’s marketing efforts generated 1.6 million incremental international visitors, nearly $6 billion in additional visitor spending, and supported close to 80,000 American jobs. These efforts produced $1.7 billion in federal, state, and local tax revenue, contributing to nearly $13 billion in total economic impact across the country.
Find more information at thebrandusa.com
Hyatt Completes Acquisition of Playa Hotels & Resorts
By Jordan Bradley
Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced on June 17 it has completed its acquisition of Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V.
The transaction expands the company’s collection of inclusive resorts by 15 all-inclusive properties in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica.
“As we welcome Playa into the Hyatt family, we are strengthening our leadership in the all-inclusive space through a combination of new
locations, capabilities, and talent,” said Mark Hoplamazian, President and CEO, Hyatt. “Playa’s all-inclusive management platform complements Hyatt’s global scale and brand strength, enabling us to deliver compelling experiences for guests and members while driving strong performance for owners.”
The properties include eight resorts “already represented within Hyatt’s system,” the company said, under Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara branded properties, which were born out of a long-standing collaboration between
Hyatt and Playa that began in 2013. Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V. was established in 2006.
“Playa has spent nearly two decades building a reputation for delivering outstanding all-inclusive experiences,” said Bruce Wardinski, departing Chairman and CEO at Playa Hotels & Resorts. “This acquisition is a natural evolution of our longstanding relationship with Hyatt, and we’re confident these outstanding resorts will continue to flourish under its leadership.”
The other properties include the Secrets La Romana and Dreams La
Romana in the Dominican Republic; Dreams Rose Hall in Montego Bay, Jamaica; and Hyatt Vivid Playa del Carmen and Sunscape Cancun in Mexico.
“Spending time with the Playa team over the past several months has confirmed a deep cultural alignment and shared commitment to excellence,” said Javier Águila, President, Inclusive Collection, Hyatt.
Hyatt said it will provide additional financial information about the transaction on its second quarter earnings call.
Connect Spring Marketplace Headed to Louisville in 2026
By Todd McElwee
A few weeks before next year’s Kentucky Derby, Informa’s Connect Spring Marketplace will be off and running in Louisville.
Set for April 1’–16, North America’s largest show producer will bring thousands of events, travel, and sports industry leaders to the commonwealth’s most populus city. It will be the fourth Connect event in Louisville.
“We’re thrilled to bring Connect Spring Marketplace to Louisville in 2026,” said Matt Johnson, Managing Director at Informa Connect. “Louis-
ville has consistently proven to be an exceptional host city for our events. Since hosting Connect Marketplace in 2019 with 3,600 attendees—which featured our first-ever experiential trade show—the city has demonstrated its commitment to delivering outstanding experiences for our attendees. This will mark our fourth Connect event in Louisville, underscoring a longstanding partnership that both parties are incredibly proud of.”
Connect Spring Marketplace is designed to connect buyers and suppliers in the MICE industry utilizing a unique, reverse-style trade show
format. The three-day event features pre-scheduled appointments, education sessions, and networking opportunities designed to foster meaningful business relationships, organizers said.
Attendees can expect a curated experience designed to maximize ROI through targeted matchmaking between planners and suppliers. Organizers noted Louisville stands as an ideal city for Connect Spring Marketplace, offering a strategic central location, world-class convention facilities, and authentic Southern hospitality.
“We’re honored to host the Connect
Spring Marketplace in 2026 and welcome the industry’s top professionals to experience Louisville’s signature hospitality,” said Cleo Battle, President & CEO of Louisville Tourism. “Our city takes pride in creating memorable, welcoming experiences for every visitor, and this event offers a powerful platform to showcase Louisville as a premier meetings destination, showcasing our authenticity, bourbon, culinary scene and unique brand of Southerness to industry leaders who shape the future of travel and events.” Find information at informaconnect.com
Fred Dixon, President & CEO, Brand USA, introduced a new global tourism campaign, America the Beautiful, at U.S. Travel Association’s IPW in Chicago.
HOTS Mysterious Dome… Residents of a neighborhood in Indianapolis were left with a surprising item in their streets after a bout of severe weather swept through the region on June 18. UPI described it as “a mysterious dome-shaped object.” Residents of 19th and North Pasadena Streets were shocked to discover the large, white dome when the storm subsided. So shocked that a crowd gathered in the streets, speculating on the object’s origin. “Our sidewalk out here has become a tourist attraction,” said Sandy Jones, neighborhood resident, in an interview
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
Marketing & Circulation Director Christy Pumphrey christy@usaenews.com
Senior Vice President George Roman george@georgeromanmedia.com
HOTS HOTS
with local news outlet WRTV. An employee from a local business located near Pasadena Street, V2X Technology, told local outlets the site was formerly occupied by missile developer Raytheon and had a theory about the objects origin. The domed object appeared to be a “radome,” a “structure designed to protect satellite antennae and other delicate equipment from weather,” the employee said. HOTS wonders how it got all the way down the street—and without damaging anybody’s streetparked cars!
g g g g g
HOTS Stanley Cup Repairs… Thanks to the enthusiasm on the part of the Florida Panthers’ and years of likewise electrified handling, the Stanley Cup is cracked and in need of repairs, the Associated Press reports. After winning their second-consecutive Stanley Cup Finals on June 17, the Florida Panthers celebrated with the iconic trophy well into the afternoon hours of June 18. During that time, the 131-year old silver chalice was cracked and the bottom was dented—though this sort of dam-
age is nothing new to the Cup. Representatives from the Hockey Hall of Fame said the Cup was being repaired and would be up to seeing adoring fans in time for the celebration parade on June 22. The Cup is no stranger to
dents or repairs—as it has been tradition for decades for the new Stanley Cup Champs to carry the 37-pound Cup along in their post-win revelries. HOTS thinks there’s something a little magical about this dinged up cup.
MPI Celebrates 2025 RISE Award Recipients
By Todd McElwee
Honoring exceptional achievements in the meetings and events industry, MPI announced the recipients of this year’s RISE (Recognizing Industry Success and Excellence) Awards during the 2025 World Education Congress (WEC25) in St. Louis on June 18.
“It brings me great joy to celebrate the 2025 RISE Award recipients!” said MPI’s International Board of Directors Chair Rob Adams, CEO, Bishop-McCann. “Their passion, hard work, and remarkable achievements not only inspire our community but also reflect the values that we strive to uphold every day in our industry,”
The RISE Awards feature seven honors in two categories: individual achievement and community achievement. Recipients are recognized for innovation, global transferability, impact, and influence within the industry, and will join the MPI Community of Honorees, a group composed of past MPI award winners and distinguished leaders.
The RISE Award for Member of the Year was presented to Rafael Hernandez. Hernandez joined MPI in 2013 and quickly became engaged as a volunteer and served on the
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than 10 hours.
Gourley admitted to the charges
chapter board from 2014–2021. He has impacted the MPI LATAM region over the last several years through volunteerism.
“As the founder of Grupo Latin America Meetings, Rafael has made significant contributions to the international business and meetings industry,” MPI said.
The RISE Award for Young Professional Achievement was presented to Jordan Lacey, CMP. Lacey is a Project Manager, Tech Events at Capital One. MPI said she seamlessly blends expertise in event strategy and technology to create impactful and engaging experiences.
The RISE Award for Meeting Industry Leadership was presented to JC York. York is known for his extensive contributions to the meetings and events industry. A member of MPI since 2009, he quickly became an active leader within the Tampa Bay Area Chapter. MPI said his leadership was crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, guiding the chapter through unprecedented challenges during an extended term as President and continuing his service through various committees, including the President’s Council.
The RISE Award for Innovative Edu-
and was sentenced by St. Louis Division 13 Judge Theresa Counts Burke to serve three five-year sentences for kidnapping and three-year sentences for the five counts of armed criminal action to be served concurrently, ac-
cational Programming was presented to the MPI UK & Ireland Chapter. Held in Dublin, the MPI Impacts Event’s educational programming blended professional development with immersive, experiential learning.
The RISE Award for Marketplace Excellence was presented to the MPI New Jersey Chapter. The 2024 Golf Event, now in its 26th year, is a key networking opportunity that connects planners and suppliers in a relaxed, outdoor setting. This annual event has evolved into a Signature Industry Favorite, fostering relationships among attendees.
The RISE Award for Membership Achievement was presented to the Atlantic Canada Chapter. A Chapter Reimagined—A Legacy Redefined—the MPI Atlantic Chapter has undergone a bold transformation, emerging as a center of innovation, inclusivity, and impact. Faced with declining engagement, this chapter chose to redefine what a thriving chapter looks like through a variety of initiatives including student scholarships and leadership development. It experienced a 60.78% net membership growth.
The RISE Award for Social Impact was presented to the Ottawa
cording to court documents.
According to local publication The Leader, Gourley had previous felony convictions for incidents in October and November 2015 in St. Louis and Jefferson counties. Please turn to page 8
The Caesars Entertainment team poses with the St. Louis Cardinals’ 2011 World Series Trophy during the opening celebration of MPI’s WEC at Busch Stadium on June 18.
Hyatt Centric Chicago O’Hare Completes Renovation
By Jordan Bradley
The Hyatt Centric Chicago O’Hare hotel has wrapped up its internal renovation and revitalization project and is now open, Hyatt announced on June 19.
The 206-guest-room hotel is located less than two miles from the O’Hare International Airport, nearby the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, the Rosemont Theatre, and the Allstate Arena.
“We’re excited to welcome guests into this thoughtfully designed space, located a short distance from a variety of entertainment venues and the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center,” said John Gill, General Manager, Hyatt Centric Chicago O’Hare. “The hotel’s lobby, guest rooms, meeting rooms and restaurant will inspire guests to explore the city and put them at ease when they return to experience a stay worth sharing.”
The Hyatt Centric Chicago O’Hare is owned and managed by Chicago-based Maverick Hotels & Resorts. The newly renovated property was redesigned with “a fresh, modern aesthetic” complete with vibrant murals and bold color palettes.
The hotel offers guests more than 7,600 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, 24-hour airport shuttle services, the full-service Cima Restaurant—which partners with local farms to bring fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients to the table—and Lobby Bar, a mellow stop for local craft brews and small bites.
“More than just a place to stay, this hotel offers travelers a fresh and dynamic space where leisure and adventure collide under one roof,” said Robert Habeeb, Founder and CEO of Maverick Hotels and Restaurants, owner of Hyatt Centric Chicago O’Hare. “With modern design,
elevated amenities, and unmatched proximity to the airport, we’re proud to showcase what it means to stay in the center of the action.”
Association Created for Outsourced Professionals
By Todd McElwee
The Outsourced Professionals Association (OPA)—a nonprofit dedicated exclusively to freelancers, fractional professionals, and independent contractors—launched on June 16 to address the growth in America’s independent workforce.
OPA said with recent government workforce reductions and economic shifts driving millions toward freelance
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they’re supposed to have, maybe not,” Trump said, according to CBS News reports, adding later: “We can’t do that to our farmers. And leisure, too. Hotels. We’re going to have to use a lot of common sense on that.”
According to a June 12 email obtained by the New York Times, senior ICE official Tatum King directed regional leaders of Homeland Security Investigations, the portion of the agency that is responsible for conducting criminal investigations, to “please hold on all work site enforcement investigations/operations on agriculture (including aquaculture and meat packing plants), restaurants and operating hotels.”
A Department of Homeland Security representative, Tricia McLaughlin, confirmed the guidance to the outlet only for the directive to be reversed days later, according to the Washington Post
and contract work, it will provide a dedicated community and business development platform that has never existed before.
“The traditional employment model is fundamentally shifting, and professionals working in this rapidly evolving world need resources built specifically for their reality,” said inaugural board chair Grant Covault of GC Strategies.
“This association was built by the outsourced community for the out-
The president of the San Diego hotel worker union, Unite Here Local 30, said the raids were sparking fear amongst union members and hotel workers in the city.
“It’s a very, very dark time. It’s terrifying for our members. Even our members that have papers are terrified that if they go to their kid’s school, church or they go to the market, that they’re going to be picked up because they look like undocumented workers,” said Brigette Browning, President, Local 30, in an interview with local news outlet NBC7.
Browning was skeptical that the change in policy would last.
“I think he’s worried about his rich friends that are worried about their pocketbooks,” Browning said. “I don’t think he cares about hotel workers or farmworkers at all. If he did, he would never be treating them the way he’s treating them.”
The orders were reversed by June 16, according to sources who spoke to several major news outlets on condition of anonymity.
sourced community.”
OPA said unlike generic networking groups or industry-specific associations, it focuses exclusively on the unique challenges and opportunities facing the outsourced professional community. The inaugural “Outsourced LIVE” conference will be held in October in Washington, D.C.
“There’s been a massive gap in the market for a group that brings together the entire workforce of diverse, tal-
“The President has been incredibly clear. There will be no safe spaces for industries who harbor violent criminals or purposely try to undermine ICE’s efforts,” McLaughlin told CBS News.
The San Diego County Lodging Association (SDCLA) noted that San Diego’s hotel workers are less likely to be undocumented immigrants due to the nature of the hotel business.
“San Diego hotels directly employ more than 10,000 workers and comply with labor laws and immigration requirements, including those focused on recruitment and employment verifications,” the association said. “Our hotels are dedicated to providing a safe working environment for all employees and to adhering to all California laws. They do so to ensure employees can focus on their careers and guests receive the welcoming hospitality they expect.”
From a San Diego perspective, SDCLA spokesperson Pete Hillan said the impact has not been “dramatic” from what the association is hearing from
ented outsourced professionals,” said Matthew Ott, OPA Executive Director. “While traditional employees have countless professional associations, the growing number of Americans working as independent contractors have had nowhere to turn for community, business opportunities, and professional development. We are changing that.”
Find more information at outsourcedpros.org
member hoteliers.
“San Diego hotels are not immune to what’s happening regarding workplace compliance, but as of now –despite the on-again-off-again nature of federal policy—we have not had a dramatic impact in San Diego,” Hillan said. “That’s not necessarily true in L.A.—and I’m not as familiar with all the details in L.A. in terms of what the impact is—but I think it’s fair tot say the concern is greater there just because of the intensity of the situation.”
According to the SFGate.com (the online iteration of the San Francisco Chronicle ), hotels in downtown Los Angeles were “hemorrhaging” guests ahead of a highly anticipated Dodgers-Giants three-game series beginning on June 13.
The outlet spoke with several downtown L.A. hotels, reporting a high increase in cancellations. National Guard troops were deployed to quell protests at the Metropolitan Detention Center, a federal prison in downtown L.A. where immigrants
Hyatt Centric Chicago O’Hare announced the completion of its property-wide renovations on June 19.
Ally Formanek Tapped to Lead Visit Rapid City
By Jonathan Trager
Ally Formanek has joined Visit Rapid City as the South Dakota organization’s new CEO, making her the fourth person to hold that position in the group’s 53-year history.
Fomanek’s appointment was effective earlier this month. She has been serving as Interim CEO of Visit Rapid City since April 1, after Brook Kaufman departed to lead Visit Corpus Christi in Texas.
“I’m honored to be the next CEO for Visit Rapid City,” said Formanek. “I look forward to continuing the amazing work done by my predecessors and continuing to share and promote Rapid City as a world-class destination.”
Formanek has been with Visit Rapid City since 2016 and has occupied various roles, including in finance and operations. She has more than 15 years of tourism experience and has worked in local restaurants, hotels and attractions, including at Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
As part of its search to find its next CEO, Visit Rapid City had more than 200 qualified candidates who were identified through a national search process facilitated by Winner Partners. After interviewing several candidates, the Visit Rapid City Board of Directors approached Formanek
about the position.
“While we searched high and low for the next CEO, it turns out she was right here at home,” said Tim Johnson, Chair of Visit Rapid City. “As an integral part of our agency for years, Ally is the right person to lead Visit Rapid City. We’re honored she accepted this leadership role.”
Formanek holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Black Hills State University and also has her SHRM-CP, which is a certification from the Society for Human Resource Management.
The Atlanta CVB (ACVB) marketing team received two 2025 Southeast Emmy Awards for Season 2 of “Atlanta Con Sabor Latino,” a bilingual lifestyle series produced with Telemundo Atlanta, the organization announced. The series was recognized in the Documentary (Spanish) and Magazine Program/Public Affairs Program (Spanish) categories. Pictured here at the Grand Hyatt Atlanta on June 14 from left to right: George Avelar, Director, Telemundo Atlanta; Juan Echeverría, Producer and Editor, “Atlanta Con Sabor Latino”; Perrine Prieur Gallardo, CEO/founder/owner, Perrine’s Wine Shop; Claudio Gallardo, Sales Director & Event Coordinator, Perrine’s Wine Shop; Sheretha Bell, Vice President of Marketing & Brand Strategy, ACVB; Daniela Cintron, Content Manager & Bilingual Editor, ACVB; Monica Green, Citywide Sales Executive, ACVB; Patricia Bell; Jo Ann Haden-Miller, Sr. Director, Partnerships, ACVB, and Executive Director, ACVB Foundation; Pricilla Rodriguez, President/General Manager, Telemundo Atlanta; and Denise Santos, founder, Latinas in Media.
Hotels Reportedly Pilot Paid Breakfast
By Jordan Bradley
Hotels with popular complimentary breakfast have been testing room rates that don’t include breakfast, according to reports.
Industry analysts have found that some hotels are limiting breakfast options as a potential cost-saving measure, Fortune states.
The first wave of testing came last year. The Points Guy reported last November that Hyatt Place—part of Hyatt’s portfolio of select service hotel brands that caters to business and leisure travelers—was “rolling back” free breakfasts at more than 40 hotels.
The outlet was tipped off about the changes by readers, and the rumor was confirmed to the outlet by a Hyatt spokesperson.
“At the moment, a limited number of Hyatt Place hotels in the U.S. are piloting new graband-go menu options while others are testing a rate plan that allows guests to book a stay that does not include breakfast,” the spokesperson said at the time. “World of Hyatt Globalists continue to enjoy a free breakfast at all Hyatt Place hotels globally.”
view with Fortune
For brands like Hampton Inn by Hilton, free breakfast has earned the budget-friendly brand a reputation for reliability—and a cult following around its waffles.
Hampton Inn was established in 1984 as a no-frills concept for budget travelers. After several years of growth, it was bought by Hilton in 1999, and in the early oughts the brand’s owner sought to elevate its standing. This led to a standardized hot breakfast—something that differentiated the brand from its competitors who offered lackluster complimentary breakfast options at the time.
“In addition, select Hyatt Place hotels may offer rates that do not include breakfast.”
As of June 19, Hyatt’s landing page for the brand highlighted its breakfast bar—with a list of excluded hotels, all international properties except The Forester, a Hyatt Place Hotel in Lake Forest, Illinois.
“In addition, select Hyatt Place hotels may offer rates that do not include breakfast,” the section said.
Practically speaking, this means that some hotel room rates at Hyatt Place properties include breakfast, some offer breakfast-included and breakfast-not-included room rates, and others allow guests to pay separately for breakfast if they so choose.
Other hotels are testing roll-backs on their complimentary breakfast as a property-specific inquiry of the costs and benefits, Fortune found. These include the St. Regis Macao, a Marriott International property and member of the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio.
“We are aware that some brands have been testing room rate structures inclusive or exclusive of breakfast, grab-and-go options, or programs where complimentary breakfasts are only offered to loyalty members,” said Rachael Rothman, Head of Hotels Research and Data Analytics at CBRE Group, in an inter-
After some years of testing, every Hampton Inn property was required to have a do-it-yourself waffle station in 2010, the Wall Street Journal reports. And Bloomberg reports the batter used across properties has been thoroughly tested to find the most popular, thoroughly changing the continental breakfast game across the hotel industry. Last summer, Hilton leaned into the hype, unveiling the Hampton by Hilton brand’s first-ever Waffle Bosses in honor of National Waffle Day on August 24.
Though Hampton by Hilton is not one of the brands considering phasing out their complimentary breakfast, the cult following surrounding its D-I-Y waffle bars set a new standard for hotel breakfast offerings across the board. According to CBRE data, hotels that offer complimentary breakfast options outperform those without the perk.
“Breakfast is a cost [for hotel brands], without a doubt, but it can also be a key differentiator and can create value through higher rates and higher occupancy levels,” Rothman told Fortune
But some experts note that luxury travelers don’t value breakfast in the same way as budget travelers. They add that travelers are increasingly interested in hyper-local experiences that allow for guests to get out into a community.
“The reality is that, sure, breakfast at a hotel is great, but that doesn’t necessarily allow you to experience the destination,” said Zach Demuth, Global Head of Hotels Research at JLL, a global firm specializing in real estate and investment management, in an interview with Fortune
Ally Formanek
Conversation with Rob Adams, CEO, Bishop-McCann, Chair, MPI International Board of Directors
Rob Adams is roughly halfway into his year-long term leading MPI’s board. Shortly before the WEC in St. Louis, he discussed goals for the remainder of the year, examined industry collaborations and shared if anything has surprised him as Chair.
USAE: What are the goals for the remainder of your term?
Adams : As Chair, my focus for the remainder of my term is threefold: to expand MPI’s global planner community, ensure we remain the premier source for education and professional development in our industry, and continue building on MPI’s strong financial foundation. Equally important is maintaining our longstanding commitment to diver-
sity and inclusion, which has been a core value of MPI since 1972. By pursuing these goals, we aim to elevate the collective strength and impact of our entire industry.
USAE: Has anything surprised you as Chair, and if so, what?
Adams: What has truly surprised me is the way our industry continues to embrace rapid transformation without hesitation, but with resilience and creativity. Whether it’s navigating the rise of AI, responding to economic shifts, or reimagining inclusion in a global context, our community views change as a spark for innovation. I’ve seen firsthand how constraints often fuel creativity, and I’m inspired daily by the problem-solving spirit of MPI’s members around the world.
USAE : Do you believe industry associations are maximizing their potential to collaborate, and if not, what more can be done?
Adams: There is genuine intent to collaborate across our industry, but there’s untapped opportunity to take that collaboration even further. We need to think beyond traditional roles, such as moving past planners collaborating with planners and instead approach our work as a broader, interconnected ecosystem. That includes destination marketing organizations, DMCs, agencies, suppliers, and more. When we break down silos and co-create solutions across all corners of the industry, we elevate the collective impact we can achieve.
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Brittany Packnett Cunningham Explores Confidence During WEC Keynote
By Todd McElwee
In her keynote speech on June 18, Brittany Packnett Cunningham asked attendees of MPI’s World Education Congress (WEC), “what if we all made our most confident contributions all the time?”
The proud St. Louisan provided some answers, delving into the development of confidence via the sharing of personal struggles and triumphs while also stressing the importance of building up others.
Packnett Cunningham spent significant time discussing imposter syndrome and how it affects a reported 70% of American adults. It has affected her at various junctions, including leading a St. Louis nonprofit
ASAE
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Today, Johnson is the Chairman and CEO of Magic Johnson Enterprises, an investment conglomerate that focus primarily on ethnically diverse and underserved urban communities. ASAE said his philanthropy work in promoting awareness, prevention and education to assist in the fight against HIV/AIDS has changed the world.
The main stage will also feature bestselling author Susan Cain and entrepreneur Andrew Yang, co-founder of the Forward Party.
The author of QUIET: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking and BITTERSWEET: How Sor-
row and Longing Make Us Whole, Cain has spent the last 20 years exploring a particular realm of human nature: the quiet, the sensitive, the thoughtful, and the bittersweet. She will be interviewed by Holly Ransom, founder and CEO of the consulting firm, Emergent, on August 11.
Presenting the closing keynote, Yang is an entrepreneur, author and co-founder of the Forward Party, an independent political movement dedicated to breaking through partisan gridlock and restoring the promise of American democracy. He was a 2020 Democratic presidential candidate.
Beyond the sessions, ASAE and Destination Los Angeles are curating a slate of evening events at some of the city’s most iconic venues. The agenda features the Opening Celebration at
at the age of 27 as well as following a rocket scientist during a TED talk in Vancouver.
During both circumstances, Packnett Cunningham looked inward to build herself up. After a few months in St. Louis, she realized she was hired for her voice, ideas and outlook and someone saw something in her that she may not have seen in herself. She spent four years at the job.
In Vancouver, she realized her mission was not to speak to the billionaires and illuminati in the audience, but rather to her former students in Washington, D.C., and others like them. Her TED talk ended up being one of the 10 most popular of the year.
Packnett Cunningham discussed how society’s archetypes of success
discourage individuals from feeling like one’s full self; we’ve all be told we don’t fit or aren’t good enough. To combat this, if everyone feels like an imposter and is wearing a mask, let’s all take them off because we’re all in the same boat, she said.
Showing up as one’s full self gives permission others to do the same, Packnett Cunningham said. Not conforming to norms in personal and professional settings and being confident in you decisions helps others develop their own confidence.
In 2020, Packnett Cunningham became Founder and Principal of the social impact agency Love & Power Works, where she works as an interdisciplinary activist, creative and
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the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, ASAE Research Foundation’s The Classic at The Novo and The GRAMMY Museum, and Closing Celebration at Peacock Place.
“We are thrilled to welcome ASAE’s 2025 Annual Meeting & Exposition to our City of Angels,” said Adam Burke, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board. “Partnering with Michelle Mason and the ASAE team, we’re curating an unforgettable, only-in-LA event that will enable attendees to experience our community’s vibrant and diverse offerings. We can’t wait to roll out the red carpet and share the energy, creativity, and spirit that make LA the ideal event destination.”
Find more information at annual.asaecenter.org
Magic Johnson
Rob Adams
Brittany Cunningham
DI Awards
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for their thoughtful and diligent work in selecting this year’s remarkable recipients.”
The Hall of Fame was launched in 2014 during DI’s 100th anniversary to recognize individuals who have changed the future of destination marketing and management for the better. These individuals have made significant contributions to the advancement of the industry and shaped travel marketing and management. It’s the highest honor that DI bestows on industry leaders, pioneers, advocates, and champions.
This year’s Hall of Fame inductees include the following:
• Industry Contributor—Isabel Hill, Former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism and Director of the
NEWS NEWS
National Travel and Tourism Office, U.S. Department of Commerce.
• Modern Era—Paul Arrigo, CDME, Former President & CEO, Visit Baton Rouge; J. Stephen Perry , Former President & CEO, New Orleans & Company; and Jack Wert , FCDME, Former Executive Director, Naples/ Marco Island/Everglades CVB.
Searchwide Global is the winner of the Spirit of Hospitality Award, the DI Foundation’s highest honor. The award is presented annually to those who demonstrate extraordinary commitment to the foundation, the association, and the broader travel and tourism industry.
The Destination Organization Leadership Award was created in 2017 and is among the association’s most prestigious honors, recognizing those outstanding individuals who, through their exceptional work and achievements, have made a significant impact on the destination organization indus-
try as well as a profound difference in the communities they serve.
This year’s winners of the Destination Organization Leadership Award include the following:
• Organizations with Operating Budgets less than $1M—Marlyss Auster, President & CEO, Visit Ventura.
• Organizations with Operating Budgets of $1M to $3M— Domenic Bravo, CDME, President & CEO, Visit Cheyenne.
• Organizations with Operating Budgets of $3M to $10M—Al Hutchinson, President & CEO, Visit Baltimore.
• Organizations with Operating Budgets of $10M and above— Vic Isley , President & CEO, Explore Asheville.
Fáilte Ireland has netted the Destination Organization Award for Global Impact, which was created in 2023 to recognize specifically those outstanding destination organizations
that have made a significant impact on the global destination industry through exceptional service and innovation in their location or national communities.
“On behalf of the Destinations International Awards Committee, we are delighted to extend our heartfelt congratulations to this year’s award recipients for their exceptional accomplishments and this well-earned recognition,” said committee co-chairs Tammy Canavan, FCDME, President & CEO of Visit Seattle, and Cleo Battle, CDME, President & CEO of Louisville Tourism. “These distinguished individuals represent some of the most respected, dedicated and visionary leaders in our industry. We also want to recognize the outstanding work of the committee, whose thoughtful and thorough review of an impressive pool of nominations made this celebration of excellence possible.”
USAE : What has MPI meant to your career?
Adams: MPI has shaped my journey in profound ways both professionally and personally. It started with a conversation at a local chapter event and evolved into a lifelong connection with an extraordinary community. Through MPI, I’ve discovered that leadership is not about having all the answers, but about creating space for others to grow, contribute, and lead. The values I’ve gained, including collaboration, empathy, and continuous learning, are now embedded in how I lead every day, and I carry them proudly into my role as Chair of the International Board of Directors.
USAE : Please share one of your favorite WEC memories.
Adams: One of my most powerful WEC memories was our first in-person event following the pandemic, held in San Francisco. The energy and joy of reuniting face-to-face reminded all of us why we do what we do. That moment of collective reconnection and seeing our industry come alive again was not just emotional; it was transformational. It reaffirmed the power of community and the irreplaceable value of live events.
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strategist to curate transformative projects and partnerships across industries to transform lives. Her and her work has been featured on Netflix, Lifetime, HBO and in New York Magazine, Washington Post, Cosmopolitan and Teen Vogue
Paul Arrigo
Jack Wert
J. Stephen Perry
Isabel Hill
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LaRue V. Frye Celebration of Life
of them
SoCal Hotels
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were being held, and Mayor Karen Bass instituted a nightly curfew in the area that would have impacted game attendees.
“We’ve seen significant cancellations,” a manager at the Downtown L.A. Proper hotel told SFGate. “I can’t share an exact number, but we’ve
definitely seen an impact.”
The Hotel Association of Los Angeles (HALA) did not respond to USAE request for comment regarding the impact of ICE raids on L.A. hotels by press deadline.
MPI
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Chapter. The MPI Ottawa Charity Auc-
tion & Dinner is a longstanding annual event that brings together the meetings and events industry to support local charities selected by MPI Ottawa members. For more than 25 years, this initiative has exemplified social responsibility by raising awareness and funds for organizations addressing key community challenges such as education, mental health, and food security. In the past 15 years alone, the event has raised more than $300,000
“I am incredibly proud of our RISE Award recipients for their exceptional achievements and dedication,” said MPI President & CEO, Paul Van Deventer. “Their work exemplifies the values and excellence that drive MPI and our industry forward. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.”
For more details on the MPI RISE Awards and this year’s recipients, visit www.mpiweb.org/RISE
The Exchange, ASAE’s signature gathering of association leaders committed to advancing equity, connection, and growth, was held in Washington, D.C. on June 17. Shown here (left to right) is Sheri Sesay-Tuffour, PhD, FASAE, CAE, CEO, Pediatric Nursing Certification Board and Secretary-Treasurer, ASAE: and Denyce Graves, American mezzo-soprano who gave the closing keynote.
A celebration of life for long-time ASAE staff member LaRue V. Frye was held June 18 at ASAE’s headquarters in Washington, DC. More than 30 persons, many of them ASAE alumni, attended. Frye died March 27, 2025 at age 86 near her home in Augusta, WV.
IMN Solutions of Arlington, Virginia, recently unveiled new branding that produces a “fresh new look across our website, materials, and communications.”
A celebration of life for longtime ASAE staff member LaRue V. Frye was held on June 18 at ASAE’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. More than 30 persons, many
ASAE alumni, attended. Frye died on March 27 at age 86 near her home in Augusta, West Virginia.
Greater Fort Lauderdale puts everything within reach—just minutes from the airport, beaches, and vibrant Las Olas dining and shops. At the center is the reimagined Convention Center, featuring a stunning waterfront ballroom, tropical plaza, and the new Omni Fort Lauderdale hotel steps away.
