Marriott to Operate New Cincinnati Convention Center HQ Hotel
By Jonathan Trager
A $536 million hotel being developed across from the Duke Energy Convention Center in downtown Cincinnati will bear the Marriott name, developer Portman Holdings announced on July 15.
The 700-room hotel will be connected to the renovated convention center via skybridge. It will include
62,000 square feet of meeting space, a 17,000-square-foot terrace overlooking Fifth Street, multiple ballrooms, and ground floor retail space.
“Marriott Hotels is an iconic brand that brings global recognition, bestin-class service, and a strong customer loyalty network,” said Kaunteya Chitnis, Managing Director of Hospitality for Portman Holdings. “Marriott’s involvement will help deliver a
Waldorf Astoria New York Finally Opens Following Delayed Renovations
By Jordan Bradley
Following several delays spanning more than eight years, the Waldorf Astoria New York has wrapped restoration efforts and finally opened its doors to guests earlier than anticipated, Hilton announced on July 15.
Most recently, the property was expected to open to guests in September, according to the Hilton hotel’s website. The reopening debuts extensive and “unprecedented” restoration efforts, Hilton said.
According to the company, the property is “open to guests,” and will be begin accepting group and event bookings on September 1 for the property’s 43,000 square feet of meetings and event spaces. The property’s 372 branded residences are also open, according to the July 15 announcement.
The property’s sauna, steam room, and Guerlain Wellness Spa “will debut later this year,” the hotel’s website said.
As part of the renovation, the Waldorf Astoria New
world-class hospitality experience in the heart of Cincinnati’s Convention District.”
The hotel is being funded through a public-private partnership with financial support from the city of Cincinnati, Hamilton County, and the state of Ohio.
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The Upside of Not Venturing Up in St. Louis’ Gateway Arch
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Grand Hyatt Kaua’i Launches Scholarship Program for Employees
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Marriott CFO Leeny Oberg to Retire in 2026
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JULY 21, 2025
ASAE Honoring Six Groups with 2025 Power of Associations Summit Awards
By Todd McElwee
Six associations have been recognized by ASAE with a Power of Associations Summit Award, the top recognition for associations making a meaningful impact globally.
Honorees will be highlighted during the Summit Awards Dinner on September 25 at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C.
The 2025 Summit Award Recipients are the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), American Society of Hematology (ASH), American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) of Greater Los Angeles, Florida Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (FAFCC), and National Adoption Association (NAA).
“This year’s Summit Award recipients are tackling some of the most urgent challenges of our time—from global health equity and wildfire recovery to mental health access and family well-being,” said Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE, President &
Destinations International (DI) and TravelAbility, the leading conference and media organization dedicated to accessible travel, have released an updated and expanded edition of the Accessibility Playbook for 2025.
First introduced in 2023, the comprehensive toolkit now includes curated resources, technology and service provider recommendations, actionable strategies, and an accompanying AI companion to help desti-
nations move from awareness to implementation in serving travelers with disabilities and the older population.
“Accessibility is a critical and growing focus for our members,” said Don Welsh, President & CEO of DI. “The expanded Playbook reflects our continued commitment to supporting our members and partners in building welcoming communities for all. We’re delighted to have TravelAbility as our trusted partner in developing this invaluable resource to help
Hilton’s Waldorf Astoria New York hotel, the flagship property for the Waldorf Astoria brand, opened to guests on July 15. Chris Nassetta, (center in black suit with blue tie) President and CEO of Hilton, celebrated the property’s opening with Waldorf Astoria New York team members. Credit: Hilton
The Upside of Not Venturing Up in St. Louis’ Gateway Arch
By Todd McElwee
“Did you go up in the Arch?”
Right after “How was your trip?” it’s the question I’ve been asked most about visiting St. Louis last month for MPI’s WEC.
Regarding the initial question the answer is always, “Great!” Concerning the Gateway Arch, I reply, “No, and honestly, kind of glad I didn’t.”
An explanation…
The Gateway Arch is ubiquitous with St. Louis. A global symbol, it’s the Eifel Tower for Paris and Statue of Liberty for New York. There’s no confusion about its location. Its image is everywhere in town, even on the red dress socks included in the Explore St. Louis gift bag welcoming me to the Four Seasons St. Louis, which features unobstructed views of the monument.
Riding the tram to the Gateway Arch’s apex was a priority, but three things hindered the plan: no reserved ticket due to procrastination, the considerable crowd queued up prior to the 9 a.m. opening and Explore St. Louis’ thoughtfully crafted media FAM itinerary (expertly facilitated by Rachel Huffman, Content Manager, and Catherine Neville, Vice President of Communications. Thank you to MPI and Mary Prevost, Prevost Partners, as well).
Let’s begin with Explore St. Louis. Visiting the Gateway Arch does not appear to be something one endeavors to do on say a lunch hour. Like the Washington Monument in D.C.—which
despite living 75 miles from the capital for most of my life I’ve never been in—lines are lengthy and probably slow. Perhaps there’s a fast pass like at Disney parks, but I’m not sure.
In my estimation, one should set aside two and a half hours for a proper visit to the Gateway Arch and surrounding national park.
Balancing its FAM agenda with the media’s WEC coverage obligations, Explore St. Louis didn’t have much, if any, time to spare while its guests were in town. Wedging an Arch visit into the well-rounded agenda may have necessitated scratching the brief but enlightening visit to the world class (and free) Saint Louis Art Museum in the exquisite Forest Park or something else.
Food and beverage may, or may not, be permitted in the Arch (I have not looked up the rules). Wouldn’t something from the Golden Arches appropriate? It’s surprising there isn’t a McDonalds at the top.
Nevertheless, whatever dining options are or are not available they’d certainly pale in comparison to the gastro tour of town cooked up by the bureau. I wouldn’t trade a trip to the top for the ribs at Expat, or summer lager pint at Schlafly Tap Room, or the Cloud Cake at Oak and Olive. Each item was authentically St. Louis.
One morning I walked to the Arch, which was located less than a mile from my hotel. A few steps into the national park, the city—Arch included—disappears. Bordered on one side by downtown and the other
by the mighty Mississippi River, it’s a surprisingly quiet place with the sounds of birds only interrupted by the riding professionally sized lawn mower grooming the grounds. Again, for much of the walk through the park, there’s no sign of the Arch.
And then, it appears. Thankfully, my sunglasses were handy as the monument’s stainless steel outer shell reflected every bit of the early summer sun. It was a beautiful morning and a beautiful sight.
I circled the monument and stared directly up when under it. My photos won’t be in National Geographic, but they are pretty good. The best I took was from the plane flying in. Unlike others, who should be arrested and
sentenced to Windex the entire structure, I did not carve my name into base. Twenty minutes sufficed as I took the long way walking home to spend more time on park grounds.
Regrettably, the mass of people outside of the museum deterred my entry. Honestly, I forget why I did not walk to the Old Court House—I should have visited both.
Who knows if I’ll go up in the Gateway Arch when returning to St. Louis? A visit will be on the list—but not at the top.
What’s for certain is that—despite not going to the top—during my visit I saw, experienced and enjoyed St. Louis much more than I would have from roughly 630 feet in the air.
Hard Rock to Open New REVERB Hotel in Alabama
By Jordan Bradley
Hard Rock International will develop a new Reverb by Hard Rock upscale lifestyle hotel in Florence, Alabama, the company announced earlier this month.
Launched by Hard Rock in November 2018, the Reverb brand concept continues the Hard Rock ethos of celebrating music, selecting each hotel location for its music history. The first hotel to open for the brand of hotels debuted in downtown Atlanta in February 2020.
Florence is near the Muscle Shoals region, a hub for recording studios that eventually led to the region’s reputation as “The Hit Recording Capital of the World,” according to the City of Muscles Shoals’ official webpage. Legendary musicians such as Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett, The Rolling Stones, Otis Redding, Paul Simon, Jimmy Cliff, and Willie Nelson recorded albums at local studios.
Alongside prioritizing the musical history of a region, the Reverb brand aims to create opportunities for connection, the company said.
Hard Rock has partnered with Sak Capital Partners to manage the development of the 155-room property.
“This project is a tribute to the area’s historic music scene and will be a significant boost for our local economy,” said Tucker Sigle, Project Manager at Sak Capital Partners. “We’re excited to partner with Hard Rock as we create a lively hotspot that will draw music lovers from near and far while providing fantastic opportunities for our neighbors right here in Florence.”
The hotel also offers more than 2,000 square feet of meeting space “catering to business travelers and event planners,” Hard Rock said.
Hard Rock expects the Reverb property to bolster the local economy and create jobs, according to officials.
“Hard Rock is thrilled to work with the team at Sak Capital Partners and to watch them develop an incredible new Reverb by Hard Rock property in Florence that celebrates the area’s music legacy while also stimulating the local economy and creating over 200 jobs,” said Todd Hricko, Sr. Vice President and Head of Global Hotel Development at Hard Rock.
Other Reverb by Hard Rock hotels
are in development in Kalamazoo, Michigan; Scottsdale, Arizona; Pensacola and Tampa, Florida; Mazatlán, in Mexico’s Sinaloa state; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. When completed, the Florence Reverb property will join existing hotels in Atlanta, Georgia, and Hamburg, Germany. Hard Rock expects to open the Florence Reverb by Hard Rock in early 2028.
Todd McElwee at the Gateway Arch
HOTS $5M Mars Rock… The largest piece of the planet Mars ever to be found on our dear Earth has been sold for $5.3 million at auction on July 16. The more-than-54-pound rock was found in the Sahara Desert in Niger in November 2023 by a meteor hunter, according to the Associated Press. Sotheby’s, the auction house handling the item, said the rock—named NWA 16788—was blown off of the red planet by a massive asteroid strike. The name of the buyer has not yet been disclosed. Sotheby’s told AP the meteor is the most valuable piece of
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
space rock to land on the blue planet. HOTS can think of several other ways to spend $5 million, but whatever floats the buyers boat!
g g g g g
HOTS Attack of the Ground Squirrels… A North Dakota city is under siege by a robust population of native ground squirrels, the Associated Press reports. The 50,000 residents of Minot, North Dakota, the state’s fourth-largest city, have been waging the battle against the Richardson’s ground squirrel for two decades. With a plethora of vacant lots in the middle of town, the burrowing animals have built an extensive underground network—a city unto itself, according to Joshua Herman, the pest control professional at the helm of the city’s uprising. Herman told AP the solution to the high population of Richardson’s is not easy. “If I’m trapping by my neighbor isn’t, well then, we’re really not going to get anywhere with it long-term,” Herman said. The city’s street department superintendent Kevin Braaten told AP that while
it’s not completely clear how many ground squirrels live within city limits, he estimates it’s close to or more than the city’s human population. “I don’t see the population ever going to zero,”
Braaten said. “I mean it’s almost impossible by the numbers that we have.” HOTS is wishing this North Dakota town much skill and luck in the ongoing battle against these groundlings.
Historic Grand Canyon Lodge Burns for Second Time in Wildfires
By Jordan Bradley
The historic Grand Canyon Lodge on the north rim of the Grand Canyon has been destroyed by the still-raging wildfires for the second time in its nearly 100-year history.
The lodge is one of several structures impacted by the Dragon Bravo Fire started by a July 4 lightning strike. The fire had devastated more than 11,000 acres on the Grand Canyon’s North Rim as of July 17, according to data from the Incident Information System.
“We are devastated by the loss of the Grand Canyon Lodge and historic buildings on the North Rim,” a statement on the lodge’s booking website reads. “All guests and staff are safe. Guests with upcoming reservations will hear from us soon.”
This is not the first wildfire to devastate the lodge, according to its official website. The original structure was built in 1928 with native stone
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destination organizations and travel businesses worldwide advance accessibility in their local communities.”
Tailored specifically for the travel and tourism sector, the Accessibility Playbook is designed to position des-
and timber, but a wildfire destroyed it almost completely in 1932. In 1936, the structure was “lovingly rebuilt,” according to the Grand Canyon Lodge’s website.
Prior to the fire, the property also boasted 120 cabins, according to the National Park Service (NPS). The service did not specify how many cabins had been lost in the wildfire.
A second wildfire, the White Sage fire, has also been raging along the Grand Canyon’s North Rim, threatening other historic lodging, including the Jacob Lake Inn, a lodging site offering hotel and motel rooms, and rustic cabins.
According to the inn’s website, it was spared from the wildfire as of July 16. However, personnel and guests had been evacuated when the White Sage fire moved within two miles of the inn, and the property has canceled reservations through July 23 out of an abundance of caution.
Jacob Lake Inn owner Melinda Rich
tination organizations as “accessibility subject matter experts,” according to DI and TravelAbility. It’s applicable for use at city, regional, state/provincial and national levels.
“This year’s refresh of the Accessibility Playbook delivers what the industry has been asking for: practical steps, vetted tools and real-world success stories,” said Jake Steinman, founder
Marshall said her family has operated the inn for its entire 102-year history in an interview with local news outlet KSL. She said the destruction of the Grand Canyon Lodge and the closeness of the White Sage fire to her inn’s property emphasized the importance of both structure’s histories.
“The loss of the lodge at the North Rim is heartbreaking. It’s part of the North Rim history just like our lodge is, so I think it puts things into perspective for us, just how unpredictable fire is,” Marshall said. “This is our second major catastrophic fire in five years that we have been dealing with, and we really just started to recover from that one.”
According to the NPS, 50–80 structures have been lost to the wildfires, including the lodge, and NPS administrative buildings and other visitor structures as of July 13.
The North Rim of the national park will remain closed for the rest of the Please turn to page 6
& CEO of TravelAbility. “We’re proud to provide a one-stop resource that destination organizations can use— and share—to raise the accessibility standards for visitors and residents alike, helping destinations move from compliance to a competitive edge.”
For more information, visit destinationsinternational.org/accessibility-playbook
More than 150 Delta Air Lines and local community volunteers recently came together to build Delta’s 44th KABOOM! playground and the fourth in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul (MSP) area.
Grand Hyatt Kaua’i Launches Scholarship Program for Employees
By Jordan Bradley
The Grand Hyatt Kaua’i Resort & Spa in Koloa, Hawaii, has launched a scholarship program to support its employees and their family members pursuing academic and professional goals.
The 605-room luxury oceanfront resort awarded $2,500 scholarships to 13 employees and their dependents, the hotel said.
To celebrate the first annual distribution of the scholarships, the hotel hosted a recent event where the scholarship monies were distributed.
“We are deeply committed to investing in our team and supporting their professional development,” said Michael Murphy, General Manager at Grand Hyatt Kaua’i Resort & Spa. “At Hyatt, we care for people so they can be their best. This scholarship program reflects our culture of care, learning and advancement for our
team, and we’re honored to help empower our hotel ohana as they take the next step in their educational journeys.”
Recipients of the scholarship will use the funds to pursue educational pursuits in aesthetics and nail care at the Honolulu Nails and Aesthetics Academy; nursing and culinary arts at the Kaua’i Community College; pre-medical imaging technology at the Oregon Institute of Technology in Wilsonville, Oregon; combination welding at Maysville Community and Technical College in Maysville, Kentucky; environmental studies at Colorado College in Colorado Springs, Colorado, representatives of the resort shared with USAE
Grand Hyatt Kauai officials also said the funds for the scholarships were raised through a series of fundraising events that the resort hosts throughout the year, including banana bread and Valentine’s Day flower sales, events such as the Colleague Golf Tournament, The Great Ball Drop, and the Annual
Destinations International Partners with American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association
By Jonathan Trager
Destinations International (DI) and the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA), the only national organization dedicated to advancing cultural heritage tourism in native nations and communities across the United States, have announced a two-year strategic partnership to jointly promote and deliver programs, products, and services that benefit both organizations.
The partnership announcement on July 15 comes after the agreement was signed at the DI 2025 Annual Conven-
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CEO, ASAE. “Their work is proof that associations don’t just serve their members—they are making the world a better, safer, and more inclusive place to live. This is the Power of Associations in action.”
AAMFT’s is being honored for the Jobs of Tomorrow – Marriage and Family Therapy docuseries. The association said the six-part series offers an exploration of how marriage and family therapists are poised to shape the future of behavioral health care.
The Consortium on Newborn Screening in Africa (CONSA) is an international network that seeks to demonstrate the benefits of newborn screening and early interventions for
tion last week in Chicago.
“We are proud to partner with AIANTA to help ensure that travel and tourism serves visitors and honors the values and interests of Indigenous communities,” said Don Welsh, President & CEO of DI. “Our partnership with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) in recent years has been and continues to be meaningful, and we are excited to deepen our efforts around Indigenous tourism in North America through this important and impactful partnership with AIANTA.”
For more than 26 years, AIANTA
children with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) in sub-Saharan Africa, ASH noted of its highlighted effort.
The HEAR program marks the second collaboration between ASHA and Bright by Text on a specialty texting track. The association said the first, the TALK program, was introduced in 2021 and is designed for parents of children ages 2–6 years with a suspected or diagnosed speech-language delay or disorder.
“ASHA is incredibly honored to be recognized by ASAE with the 2025 Summit Award for our HEAR and TALK text messaging programs,” ASHA CEO Vicki R. Deal-Williams, FASAE, CAE, told USAE . “These programs, with content designed by audiologists and speech-language pathologists, are meant to support and empower caregivers of children with trusted
has worked to address inequities in the tourism system and has served as the national voice for American Indian, Alaska native, and native Hawaiian nations engaged in cultural tourism. The association also provides technical assistance, training and capacity building to native nations and communities and native-owned enterprises engaged in tourism, hospitality, and recreation.
American Indian, Alaska native, and native Hawaiian-owned hospitality businesses contribute $11.6 billion in annual sales to the tourism and hospitality sector in the United States,
information, helpful resources, and local connections. By using technology and leveraging partnerships, we have been able to develop and deliver programs that families tell us are making a positive difference in their lives. It is so gratifying that the ASAE awards committee recognizes the value of the programs as well.”
BOMA of Greater Los Angeles is being highlighted for the Second Wave Support: Fire Recovery Donation Drive. The initiative was designed to address relief needs after the initial response to the Southern California fires.
ASAE is honoring FAFCC for the State Funds Grant Program. The initiative is funded by the State of Florida’s Department of Health and provides financial support to free and charitable clinics that serve uninsured
according to the Economic Impact of U.S. Indigenous Tourism Businesses Report, produced by AIANTA in partnership with Honolulu-based SMS Research.
“AIANTA’s partnership with Destinations International marks a pivotal moment for Indigenous tourism,” said Sherry L. Rupert, CEO of AIANTA. “This collaboration will undoubtedly elevate Indigenous perspectives within the global tourism industry. Through this collaboration, we look forward to sharing knowledge, building stronger relationships, and creating tools that
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and economically disadvantaged patients.
NAA’s Summit Award was earned for its involvement with the Ujima Collective. NAA said its Ujima Black Family Program seeks to transform the mindset and deepen the consciousness of professionals working in (or with) child welfare, focusing on the “importance of maintaining Black family connections.”
In addition to the Summit Award honorees, 12 organizations have been recognized with Power of Associations Gold Awards and 38 associations earned Silver Awards. All recipients were selected by the Power of Associations Awards Committee, chaired by Victoria Forlini, CAE, Director of Meetings, AGU.
For a full list of award-winning programs, visit asaecenter.org
Grand Hyatt Kaua’i Resort and Spa General Manager Michael Murphy (far left) is pictured here with some of the 2025 scholarship recipients at a recent event where the scholarship monies were distributed.
Bon Dance sponsored by Hyatt’s Asia Pacific Islander Colleague Chapter.
By Jordan Bradley
Marriott CFO Leeny Oberg to Retire in 2026
Marriott International CFO and EVP of Development Leeny Oberg will retire on March 31, 2026, the company announced on July 15.
Marriott veterans Jen Mason and Shawn Hill will take over as CFO and Chief Development Officer, respectively, Marriott said.
Oberg stepped into the role of CFO at Marriott on January 1, 2016, but had worked with the company in various other finance roles since 1999, according to Skift. Oberg was named the 2023 Strategic Leader by StrategicCFO360 during its inaugural CFO Leadership Awards, Marriott said.
Prior to her role as chief financial officer with Marriott, Oberg served as CFO of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company.
In reflecting on her time with at Marriott, Oberg said she was “most proud” of the accomplishments of Marriott team.
“It has been an honor to be part of the Marriott team, and a privilege to serve as the company’s CFO for the past decade and the leader of the Development organization over the past few years,” said Oberg. “Reflecting on my tenure, I am most proud of my teams and what we have accomplished together.”
Marriott President and CEO Anthony Capuano said Oberg’s “focus on value creation is evident in everything she does.”
“Leeny embodies our values and helped guide our culture throughout her career, and I am grateful for her leadership. She will be missed.”
Waldorf Opening
York offers three restaurants, all open to for reservations: Peacock Alley, a returning bar concept; Lex Yard, an American brasserie featuring a cocktail menu curated by award-winning mixologist Jeff Bell; and Yoshoku, a new kaiseki-inspired restaurant in the hotel’s lobby.
“Waldorf Astoria New York is a beacon of timeless elegance—‘The Greatest of Them All,’ as Conrad Hilton once described,” said Dino Michael, Sr. Vice President and Global Head of Luxury
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planned for 2028.
“Not only are we proud to expand hospitality offerings for guests and visitors of this iconic city, but we are
He continued: “Whether it was navigating the pandemic successfully, enhancing the company’s cost competitiveness or having a disciplined and strategic approach to investing in growth, her impact on Marriott is long lasting.”
Capuano described Oberg as warm, reliable and dedicated in her work, and he noted she had built a talented
Brands at Hilton. “We take that north star—‘The Greatest of Them All’—and we like to manifest that ambition at every new hotel we open across the globe. In every Waldorf Astoria, we have tributes to the original. The intent is they inform our history, they give a guiding nod to the past, but also allow us to reinterpret them for the future.”
The original Waldorf Astoria opened in 1931 and is credited with being the first hotel to provide in-room telephones and modernized 24-hour room service. It was also the first hotel to employ female cooks in the hotel kitchen.
immensely proud to be part of the revitalization of this district and Cincinnati’s continued growth,” said Lisa Sexton, Marriott International Sr. Vice President, Full-Service Brands, U.S. East Region & Canada.
The hotel is one element of the $828 million transformation of
“I am grateful to Leeny for helping to position the company so beautifully for this transition and for her many years of leadership and friendship,” Capuano said.
According to J.W. Marriott Jr., Chairman Emeritus at Marriott, Oberg “has made substantial contributions to Marriott” during her tenure, including the company’s recent acquisition of global luxury hospitality company Starwood Hotels.
“Since she became CFO on January 1, 2016, the company has seen a significant increase in shareholder value, with the stock meaningfully outperforming the S&P 500,” said Marriott Jr. “Leeny embodies our values and helped guide our culture throughout
“In many ways, Waldorf Astoria New York is the most important hotel in the world. It is the original luxury property and the place where luxury service was perfected. It not only holds a special place in Hilton’s history, but also in modern history,” said Chris Nassetta, President and CEO at Hilton in a July 15 release. “Today, we build on this legacy as we mark the start of a new chapter for this iconic property. We look forward to once again welcoming guests to experience its timeless charm and modern enhancements, as this hotel and Waldorf Astoria properties around the world set the standard for luxury stays.”
the downtown convention district. Also included are a $264 million renovation of the convention center and $28 million for a convention center garage that’s already under construction.
“We look forward to working alongside Marriott, Portman and our local
her career, and I am grateful for her leadership. She will be missed.”
Marriott said Oberg will remain with the company until Marriott files its 2025 annual report in order to ensure a smooth transition.
“While it’s never easy to leave a company and job you love, I have the utmost confidence in the leaders who will assume these roles and am very optimistic about the strategic path Marriott is on,” Oberg said. “I look forward to working collaboratively with them to ensure a smooth transition for the company.”
Following the transition early next year, Mason and Hill will serve on Marriott’s executive leadership team and both will report to Capuano, Marriott said.
Today, the Waldorf Astoria NYC is managed by Hilton. In 2014 it was purchased by China’s Anbang Insurance, which closed the iconic hotel in 2017 to restore it to its historical glory and transition half of the property’s 1,400 guest rooms into 372 residences and 375 expanded guest rooms and suites.
The property was originally expected to reopen in 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic delayed that timeline. The project was then delayed another four times, in part due to complications in the process as a result of global shutdowns and because Anbang declared bankruptcy.
partners to showcase everything Cincinnati has to offer,” said Julie Calvert, President & CEO of Visit Cincy. “This collaboration will help elevate the city’s profile as a premier destination for large-scale events and create a meaningful economic impact for our community.”
team.
Shawn Hill
Jen Mason
Leeny Oberg
ASAE Research Foundation Announces Recipients of CAE Scholarship
By Todd McElwee
Providing financial assistance to support a diverse workforce of association professionals in pursuing the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential, the ASAE Research Foundation has announced the 2025 recipients of the CAE Scholarship.
Recipients receive a $500 award that may be used toward the CAE application fee or applied to exam preparation resources such as reading materials, courses, or study groups.
“The CAE credential is a meaningful step in a leader’s journey, and this scholarship ensures that rising professionals from all backgrounds have a chance to pursue that path,” said Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE, President & CEO, ASAE. “Through the generous support of CAE Scholarship donors, we’re investing in the future of our profession.”
The scholarship provides financial assistance to individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to advancing their careers in association management. It must be used within one year. Additionally, recipients who are not already ASAE members will receive a one-year complimentary membership.
The 2025 recipients of the CAE Scholarship include the following:
• Jason Allen, MS, CCS, Directors of Chapters, Active Minds
• Maisaloon Dias, Director of Centers and Initiatives, Council on Social Work Education
• Dr. McLean Essiene, Ph.D., Executive Director, Global Front Initiative for Development and Empowerment
• Bryan Hibbard, Sr. Editorial Operations Manager, Society of Petroleum Engineers
• Jamie Martin, CMP, Director, Conference and Event Services, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
• Jake Minor, Sr. Manager, Operations & Resources, Council for Exceptional Children
• Sunnie Omeiza-Michael, PHD, Director of Research & Advocacy, Lagos Chamber of Commerce & Industry
• Christopher Otto, RN, Executive Director, Delaware Nurses Association
• Ryan Rosenbaum, Executive Director , Association Industry Matters
• Palash Sanyal, Principal, Governing Water
• Neil Snyder, Director of Public Policy, Hearing Loss Association of America
• Kent Storm, Competitive Events Manager, Future Business Leaders of America
• Vanessa Thomas, CEO, Ionomics Adult and Family Services
Originally founded in 2011, the Foundation’s CAE Scholarship program was reimagined in 2023 with the support of Matthew Gertzog, FASAE, CAE, Deputy Executive Director, American Society Of Hematology, and Lowell Aplebaum, FASAE, CAE, CEO, Vista Cova. ASAE Business Solutions is also a founding donor to the CAE Scholarship program.
U.S. Chamber of Commerce Supports DIGNITY Act
By Todd McElwee
U.S. Rep. María Elvira Salazar (R-FL) and U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar (D-TX) introduced a new version of the DIGNITY Act—the DIGNITY Act of 2025—on July 15. The immigration reform bill has been endorsed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
“The U.S. Chamber of Commerce supports the DIGNITY Act as a constructive step towards providing the necessary resources to strengthen border security that builds on President Trump’s success at the southern border,” said Neil Bradley, Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer, U.S. Chamber of Commerce.” This bipartisan bill offers sensible solutions for the legal immigration system, addresses critical workforce needs for businesses, and advances American innovation and productivity. The U.S. Chamber appreciates the efforts of Represen-
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year due to “damage and losses from the Dragon Bravo Wildfire,” NPS said.
Marshall said the closure will have a significant financial impact on the Jacob Lake Inn’s 2025 business.
“The North Rim is probably 80% of the money that we make,” Marshall told KLS. “We really don’t know how we’re going to make it through. And that’s pretty scary. Truthfully, it really is.”
tatives Salazar and Escobar and looks forward to continued collaboration with all members of Congress who are committed to addressing the security and workforce needs of our country.”
The Dignity Act delivers “secures the border, restores law and order, revitalizes the American Workforce, and allows certain long-term undocumented immigrants to earn legal status, without amnesty or a path to citizenship,” according to Salazar’s website. Twenty members of the House were listed as supporters.
“The Dignity Act of 2025 is a revolutionary bill that offers the solution to our immigration crisis: secure the border, stop illegal immigration, and provide an earned opportunity for long-term immigrants to stay here and work,” said Salazar. “No amnesty. No handouts. No citizenship. Just accountability and a path to stability for our economy and our future.”
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support respectful engagement with Indigenous communities across the United States.”
Native nations and communities looking to start or expand their cultural tourism footprint can fi nd resources at aianta.org. Visitors interested in learning more about indigenous culture can visit Nativeamerica. travel
On July 9, Visit Orlando received the 8th Annual Harris Rosen Philanthropic Award, presented by the International Drive Resort Area Chamber of Commerce during the “Heart of I-Drive” Luncheon. Inspired by the legacy of hotelier and philanthropist Harris Rosen, the award recognizes organizations that demonstrate a deep and lasting commitment to giving back. Pictured here is Visit Orlando President & CEO Casandra Matej (center, pink jacket) surrounded by Visit Orlando employees and partners as well as Orange County officials.
Hit your goals at The Palm Beaches, home to a collection of premier meeting spaces of every size and boasting the latest technology, vibrant communities, and breathtaking natural beauty. Beyond the insights and connections gained within the boardroom, The Palm Beaches take care of the rest with state-of-the-art venues, unique opportunities to connect, and Between-the-Sessions experiences that set meetings apart.
Plan in a destination that knows meetings — and understands how to make yours a masterpiece. Our award-winning team and community partners collaborate with you in planning from day one. Our world-class hotels and state-of-the-art meetings venues shine against the backdrop of a destination that’s unmatched in natural beauty. Our open-air spaces, award-winning dining and entertainment options, inspiring cultural institutions, unique attractions, and unrivaled commitment to service will elevate your event and energize attendees.
Effortless Planning
As America’s First Resort Destination®, The Palm Beaches have been renowned as the warm-weather getaway by discerning guests for more than 125 years. Plan your event in a destination that understands meetings and excels in making yours a masterpiece. The award-winning team and community partners collaborate with you from day one, and our collection of world-class hotels and meeting venues stand out against the backdrop of a destination unparalleled in natural beauty. The Palm Beaches’ welcoming outdoor spaces, dining options to please any palate, exciting entertainment choices, inspiring cultural institutions, incredible attractions, and commitment to service will all elevate your event to be best-in-show and energize attendees.
The Palm Beaches serve as a bustling hub for various industries, including agribusiness, life sciences, finance, and technology. Connect your attendees with innovators and thought leaders who bring expertise and star power to your event.
Diverse Venues for Every Group
Our unrivaled collection of more than 170 hotels offers 19,000+ total rooms within The Palm Beaches, and 1,000,000 square feet of meeting space allows for groups of every size to gather. In West Palm Beach, the centrally located PBCCC offers 350,000 square feet of flexible meeting space and is connected to the Hilton West Palm Beach via an enclosed, air-conditioned walkway, a perfect fit for groups looking for an all-in-one solution. The Palm Beaches have the amenities and offerings to elevate experiences, create best-in-show moments, and bring successful meetings to a whole new level.
Meetings Extended in Unforgettable Settings
This is the locale where meeting spaces of various sizes, equipped with cutting-edge technology, share the spotlight with lively and welcoming communities as well as awe-inspiring natural landscapes. Beyond the boardroom discussions, The Palm Beaches go the extra mile by offering inspiring and eco-friendly venues, unique networking opportunities that turn good colleagues into great teammates, and Between-the-Sessions experiences that make meetings true masterpieces.
Boundless Possibilities
Between-The-Sessions
When it comes to Between-the-Sessions moments, The Palm Beaches are in a league of their own, seamlessly integrating community partners, local charm, and breathtaking natural scenery for world-class meeting experiences. Add excitement to your meetings or events at The Palm Beaches with a little friendly competition and plan an evening team-building event at the world’s largest dedicated croquet facility. You could also organize a group Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program at a renowned sea turtle rehabilitation and conservation facility or even treat guests to a local food tour showcasing the distinctive, award-winning flavors of The Palm Beaches.
In vibrant West Palm Beach, the hub for meetings in The Palm Beaches, productive days in our world-class venues meet inspiring nights taking in concerts, plays, festivals, and museums between-the-sessions. Teammates can walk just steps from the Palm Beach County Convention Center (PBCCC) and its connected hotel, the Hilton West Palm Beach, to the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. Here they’ll find a bustling shopping
and dining scene at CityPlace and the colorful nightlife on Clematis Avenue. When you’re here, your team can explore 47 miles of golden coastline, improve their swing on one of our 145+ golf courses, or recharge and rejuvenate with award-winning spas. From Jupiter to Boca Raton, our 39 coastal cities and towns offer even more to discover: hundreds of inspiring cultural attractions, iconic world-class shopping, and a critically acclaimed culinary scene with award-winning chefs.
Contact The Sales Team at The Palm Beaches sales@thepalmbeaches.com 561-233-3062
https://www.thepalmbeaches.com/ meetings
Catching a show at the Kravis Center
On the water in Montunui Catamaran, West Palm Beach
Poolside at the Amrit Oceanfront Resort, for a one of a kind wellness retreat
