Bryan Griffin Tapped to Lead Visit Florida
By Jonathan Trager
The Board of Directors of Visit Florida has approved the selection of Bryan Griffin, Communications Director for Gov. Ron DeSantis, as the next President & CEO of Visit Florida.
DeSantis recommended Griffin on July 25 to succeed former Visit Florida leader Dana Young, who stepped down
in February. Griffin had joined the governor’s office in March 2022 and served as press secretary on DeSantis’ presidential campaign.
“Bryan has led the charge in communicating the message of the Free State of Florida for the past three years from my office,” said DeSantis.
“I am confident that he is the best candidate for this role, and that he
Travel Tech Backs Bill to Support Travel to Mega Sports Events
By Todd McElwee
Less than a year out from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Travel Technology Association (Travel Tech) has gotten behind the Transportation Assistance for Olympic and World Cup Cities Act of 2025 (S.1218). In a July 29 letter to Senate Committee Commerce, Science and Transportation leadership, Travel Tech spelled out its support for the bipartisan legislation.
The bill provides federal funding to enhance transportation systems in cities set to host global events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Olympic Games, and the Paralympic Games. Sens. Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) introduced the bill in April. It creates a grant program administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to provide host cities with funding for projects improving regional
will well-articulate the case for visitors from across the nation and the globe to Visit Florida. He has been an invaluable member of our team in the Executive Office, and we will greatly miss his presence and service from the Capitol.”
A native of Tampa, Florida, Griffin noted that tourism is a critical part
3
ASAE Welcoming “New-Bees” to Annual Meeting
Page 6
HSMAI Accepting Nominations for 2025 Adrian Awards
Tennessee Governor Announces Construction of Music City Loop in Nashville
By Jonathan Trager
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee has announced the Boring Company’s intent to build the Music City Loop, a private transportation project that will bring the company’s innovative underground Loop system to Nashville.
The 10-mile transit tunnel will shuttle passengers on electric vehicles between downtown Nashville and the airport in just eight minutes. Lee announced the project at the Hilton Hotel at Nashville International Airport on July 28.
The governor emphasized the cost of the Music City Loop will be borne entirely by Elon Musk’s Boring Company, not taxpayers, and is indicative of how the state “continues to lead the nation in finding innovative solutions to infrastructure challenges.”
“By leveraging the innovation of private sector companies like The
AHLA Foundation Hosts Annual NRFT Summit, Announces Grant Recipients
By Jordan Bradley
The American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) Foundation hosted the 2025 No Room for Trafficking (NRFT) Summit on July 29 at the Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C.
The annual event—coincided with the United Nations World Day Against Trafficking in Persons—hosted panels and keynotes on best practices when it comes to combating human trafficking in hotels and supporting survivors after they
escape trafficking.
As part of the fourth annual summit, attendees heard insights on lived experiences of human trafficking survivors that highlight the “complexities of survivor employment,” which can be made more challenging due to the nature of trafficking, the AHLA Foundation said. Survivors are often coerced into other crimes during their trafficking, leaving them with criminal records and barriers to gainful employment.
Since 2020, the foun -
Kevin Carey (back row, center, blue tie), President and CEO, AHLA Foundation, and Eliza McCoy (behind podium in blue blazer), Vice President of Programs and Impact, AHLA Foundation pose with awardees of the AHLA Foundation’s No Room for Trafficking (NRFT) Survivor Fund at the foundation’s annual Summit on July 30 at the Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C.
Two Learning Tracks Added to IMEX America’s Educational Slate
By Todd McElwee
IMEX America’s full education program is coming online in August. And organizers have announced the event’s nine learning tracks, including a pair of new options—community builders and leadership and culture— prior to the official launch.
Taking place October 7–9, the show will include 150-plus educational sessions during its run at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas. Smart Monday, powered by MPI, is October 6.
Tahira Endean, Head of Programming, IMEX, explains: “Whether we’re bringing together employees, clients, brand ambassadors, fans or followers, we’re all in the business of building communities through our events. All our tracks have an emphasis on ‘show and tell’ with an international roster of experts from across our industry, and beyond, who’ll share what works, what doesn’t work—and why.”
In community builders, media entrepreneur David Adler will look at connection and how to spark engagement in event design. Entrepreneur Andrea
Driessen is set to explore feeling seen and more during her sessions.
Leadership and culture will include Duncan Fisher, Chief Show Operations Officer of Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, and his session, How to Run Your Global Business Like a Circus
“In my experience, the circus is a place that runs like clockwork—operated by a team of people from countless nations, speaking different languages, with different backgrounds—and who literally trust each other with their lives,” he said.
IMEX said Dr Ferron Gray, President & Founder of the Grae Matta Foundation, has made it his life’s mission to improve access to mental health services within the workplace and higher education. In his session How to Lead With Impact in Extreme Times, he’ll delve into some of the wisdom he shared in IMEX’s recent report of the same name.
The other education tracks are:
• Event logistics will look at the entire planning and implementation of events
• Experiential event design will include expert guidance on neuro-inclusion, unconscious bias, sober-curious events, sports events, festivals, transformational experiences and more
• Impact covers environmental, social and governance, corporate social responsibility and more
• Marketing and engagement includes sessions on communication, persuasion and sales skills to convert audience reach into real engagement
Tech innovation and AI features all the tech advances in one place with sessions for AI beginners plus sessions for more experienced users
• Trends and research is designed to get participants future ready with information on the big market shifts plus micro-learnings about personas, generations and personality types
• Well-being will cover social health, psychological safety and attendee anxiety.
Find more information at imexamerica.com
Study Finds Benefits of Hotels Hiring Employees with Intellectual Disabilities
By Jordan Bradley
A team of researchers at the Penn State University School of Hospitality Management found that hotels hiring individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities saw benefits across the board.
Acknowledging the challenge of labor shortages increasing throughout the hotel industry—an industry already prone to higher turnover—the team of researchers sought to discover whether employing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities could help address labor shortages and reduce turnover.
When provided support, the Penn State researchers found through analyzing existing research on the topic, hotel employees with intellectual disabilities can help strengthen their teams overall, leading to a work environment where team members “are more thoughtful about communication, are more patient with one another and build a stronger sense of community,” the university said.
The study, called “Exploring the Untapped Workforce Potential of Employees with Intellectual and Development Disabilities int he Hotel Industry: Where to Start,” also noted that guests “may notice when a hotel is welcoming to everyone,” which could lead to increased customer loyalty.
The researchers noted that tailored
support such as clear team communication, intentional job design, and training was key to this strategy being successful. Job design for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities “should include autonomy, meaningful work, and social support from coworkers and supervisors,” the researchers said.
“Hiring someone with an intellectual disability is a great first step but supporting them well when they are on the team is just as important,” said Phil Jolly, an associate professor at Penn State and member of the research team. “That can mean adjusting communication approaches, setting up tasks in a clear and consistent way or making sure there is a support system in place. When organizations put thought into these things, it is not just the employee with a disability who benefits—the whole team gets stronger.”
The researchers also found that community partners, like job coaches, could help hotels to support employees with intellectual and development disabilities find long-term success working in hospitality.
“Community partners can help provide support to individuals with intellectual disabilities, so they do not have to find jobs alone,” said Michael Tews, an associate professor at Penn State and member of the research team.
Tews noted: “Effective training and
development are crucial to ensuring individuals with intellectual disabilities thrive in their roles.”
Mike Shugt, a graduate of Penn State’s School of Hospitality Management and founder of INNclusivity, a nonprofit dedicated to helping adults with needs find meaningful employment in the hospitality industry, said when hotels hire employees with intellectual and developmental disabilities, it’s important that they make sure the management staff is working adjusting job roles with intentionality to ensure
individual employee success.
“While there are training programs and orientation processes that can be developed and are important, the real key is to know the individual and customize a work experience for them to allow them to thrive,” said Schugt. He added: “It is all about being open to hiring individuals with intellectual disabilities. Everyone comes to the table with certain abilities, and hotels can bend further and help this audience receive meaningful employment.”
ALHI Earns Two Spots on
Inc.’s
2025 ‘Best of’ Lists
By Jordan Bradley
The Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI) was recognized by Inc. Magazine on two of its ‘Best of’ lists, the association announced in late July.
Based in Plano, Texas, ALHI was recognized on the magazine’s list of Best Workplaces of 2025 and ranked 73rd out of 137 on the magazine’s list of companies making “an outsized impact” in the Southwest region of the United States.
“These recognitions mark another milestone in ALHI’s continued growth and commitment to excellence in hospitality, service and culture,” ALHI said.
The regional recognition highlights the most successful independent small businesses, ranking them according to their revenue growth from 2021 to 2023.
According to Inc. Magazine, the companies named on their 2025 Best Workplaces list “underwent a monthslong, rigorous review process” conducted by the publication’s partner, Quantum Workplace. The process includes polls of company benefits and employee surveys.
ALHI was named to Inc.’s Best Workplaces list this year and last and rose three spots on the regional
Tahira Endean
HOTS On the Moo-ve… A herd of dairy cattle at Michigan State University moo-ved into some new digs on July 28 and 29, the Associated Press reports. Between the two dates, 260 cows hoofed it to the newly built Dairy Cattle Teaching and Research Center. According to George Smith, head of the university’s AgBioResearch Department, the move was conducted thanks to crews who erected fence between the former bovine abode and the new. Using claps, calls and whistles, the crews herded the cattle in what Smith called a “21st century cattle drive.” The old structure was able to hold a herd of 250 cattle, while the new facility can hold 680. According to Smith, the state
USAE
Publisher & Executive Editor 1982 – 2021 Anne Daly Heller
Publisher-Emeritus Ross E. Heller ross@usaenews.com
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
Graphic Designer Danielle Erbe
Marketing & Circulation
To
Christy Pumphrey christy@usaenews.com usaenews.com
dept. at christy@usaenews.com.
HOTS HOTS
of Michigan’s dairy industry produces the most milk per cow in the nation, and dairy is the top contributor to the state’s agricultural economy. The university’s new facility includes a 165,000 square feet of modernized cattle barns, and state of the art feed centers, milking parlors and labs. “Our old facility didn’t have the technical capabilities to be able to train our students for what to expect when they graduated, what dairy cattle production looks like today,” said Kim Dodd, dean of MSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Smith pointed out that dairy cows make ice cream possible. “Who doesn’t love ice cream,” Smith said. “Who can’t get excited about new opportunities in the field of dairy science?” Sorry to our lactose intolerant readers, but HOTS wonders just how much ice cream 680 dairy cattle can make.
HOTS Indonesian UFOs… Many Americans think of Roswell, New Mexico, when they think of UFOs and aliens. The city hosts an annual festival dedicated to tiny green men and their shiny spacecrafts. But Yogyakarta, Indonesia, has a festival spanning the month of July that gives Roswell a run for its money, according to the Associated Press. The country’s UFO Festival began in 2016 and welcomes hundreds of alien enthusiasts from around Indonesia and beyond. The event is free to attend and consists of art installations, experiments, work-
On July 28, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the completion of an expansion and modernization project at Syracuse Hancock International Airport. The facility was awarded $20 million from the governor’s $230 million Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition.
shops for adults and students on a variety of topics including outer-space outerwear (spacesuit construction), and discussions on space science and exploration, the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI), unidentified flying objects, and unidentified aerial phenomena. One installation this year brought a “UFO camp” to life with massive silver alien lifeforms exploring a conceptual Mars. “I think the Indonesian generation needs a platform that can transform and socialize creative ideas, whether from
the perspective of technology, science or even art,” said Venzha Christ, Director of the Indonesia Space Science Study, a co-sponsor of the event. With the way 2025 is going, HOTS is all in on space travel.
ALHI
continued from page 2
‘Best of’ list.
“These honors highlight two pillars of our success,” said Michael Dominguez, President and CEO of ALHI. “Our growth, reflected in a 93% increase over the past two years, underscores our strategic focus. And being recognized for our workplace culture, again, sends a powerful message: we’re building success through people—our team, Members and partners.”
ALHI was established in 1986. It offers experiences and partnerships to the meetings and events industry with an exclusive global portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts.
ASAE Welcoming “New-Bees” to Annual Meeting
By Todd McElwee
In Los Angeles, ASAE will welcome “new-bees” to the Hive and throughout its Annual Meeting & Exposition.
First-time attendees can add “new-bee” stickers on their badges with the First Time Attendees tab on the event’s website. The page provides information to help rookie participants make the most of their time in Southern California.
ASAE’s First Timer Tips:
• Create an agenda of sessions to attend via the app.
• Engage with other attendees via
the app. The activity feed is particularly popular with attendees.
• The Hive is a great space to network or take a break.
• If a session is particularly important for you, arrive early. Some rooms will reach capacity quickly and arriving late could mean you won’t get access.
• Chat with KellyBot to get quick answers.
Meeting hosts also recommend first time attendees take to time to peruse the Connect area of the event’s website to learn about networking opportunities onsite. Stopping by the Hive to meet other first-timers, young professionals,
volunteers, ASAE staff and more is recommended as well.
“While we put a lot of work into these initiatives for our first-timers, we still need your help as an ASAE Annual Meeting veteran! The best way for you to help is simply to connect,” ASAE said. “If you see a first timer, say hello, introduce them to some of your contacts, sit by them in a learning lab, or simply stop by The Hive! Not only will you help the first timers, but you’ll grow your own network and likely make a great new friend!”
Find more information at annual.asaecenter.org.
Association Forum Launching Men’s Leadership Conference
By Todd McElwee
Building off initiatives such as the Women’s Executive Forum and Welcoming Environment, Association Forum announced on July 30 it is launching a new leadership experience for men in summer 2026. The initiative will focus on purpose, connection, and growth.
“As a lifelong feminist, this is not about giving men more power,” said Artesha Moore, FASAE, CAE, President & CEO of Association Forum. “It’s about giving men permission to lead with authenticity, vulnerability, and a renewed sense of belonging. This is what it means to live our Welcoming Environment® values.”
Association Forum said this new gathering will be designed by men for men. The event will focus on connec-
AHLA
continued from page 1
dation’s NRFT program has helped to provide more than two million specialized anti-trafficking trainings to hospitality industry employees, according to its website.
“For years, the No Room for Trafficking initiative has leveraged our resources to unite the hotel industry against human trafficking,” said Kevin Carey, President and CEO of AHLA.
tion, comfort and encourage genuine conversation. It will welcome men from all backgrounds, promoting connection, camaraderie, mentorship, and meaningful dialogue.
Shawn Boynes, FASAE, CAE, a tenured association leader and advocate for inclusive and authentic leadership, said: “Creating a space where men can be real, be supported, and build authentic relationships is a powerful step forward to improving mental wellness. This leads to stronger leadership because in the current sociopolitical environment, we need less exhaustion and more nourishment.”
Association Forum said the initiative was inspired by Adam “Smiley” Poswolsky, the 2024 Holiday Showcase keynote speaker and a workplace belonging expert whose
“The NRFT Summit serves as a powerful call-to-action, bringing together the industry and our partners to strengthen our commitment and drive meaningful change.”
The foundation also announced the recipients of the 2025–2026 NRFT Survivor Fund grants awarded to community organizations helping survivors to reintegrate into their lives and find paths forward.
The NRFT Survivor Fund this year was awarded to 3Strands Global,
research emphasizes the importance of human connection for effective leadership.
Michelle Mills Clement, FASAE, CAE, RCE, Association Forum Board Chair and CEO of the Chicago Association of REALTORS, said: “This initiative is a reflection of the bold, forward-thinking leadership of our Board of Directors. As we expand our Welcoming Environment, we are intentionally creating room for all leaders to grow through connection, courage, and authenticity.”
The association said the data underscore the urgency:
25% of U.S. men age 15–35 report feeling lonely for much of the previous day. (“State of Global Wellbeing and Loneliness Report,” Gallup 2025)
15% of men report having no close friends—a fivefold increase since
Coalition to Abolish Slavery & Trafficking, Empowered Network, Hoola Na Pua, New Friends New Life, Rebecca Bender Initiative, Restore NYC, Safety Compass, Salt & Light Coalition, UMD Safe Center, Wellspring Living, and WillowBend Farms.
“The organizations supported through the No Room for Trafficking Survivor Fund are doing critical work to prevent human trafficking and support survivors on their path forward,” said Joan Bottarini, CFO of Hyatt and Chair of the NRFT Advisory Council.
Travel Tech
continued from page 1
transportation during World Cup or Olympic games. Grants would support permanent transportation projects— building new roads, expanding light rail, purchasing new buses, creating bike lanes, improving existing roads or highways, or making airport terminal improvements.
“Travel Tech thanks Senators Moran and Cantwell for their leadership and encourages the Senate Commerce Committee to advance S.1218,” said Laura Chadwick, President & CEO of the Travel Technology Association. “Preparing U.S. cities to host high-profile international events is both a logistical necessity and a strategic opportunity to enhance America’s competitiveness in the global travel and tourism economy.”
Signed by Chadwick, the letter was addressed to Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX), Chairman Senate Committee Commerce, Science and Transportation, and Cantwell, the committee’s ranking member.
The letter said: “The benefits of hosting major sporting events are
1990. (“An uphill battle: why are midlife men struggling to make—and keep— friends,” The Guardian, July 10, 2025) Workplace loneliness costs U.S. companies $406 billion annually. (“Loneliness and the workplace,” Cigna, 2020)
Bruce Hammond, CAE, Executive Director, The Society for Pediatric Research (SPR) and American Pediatric Society (APS), Association Forum board member, said: “This new experience shows that we are ready to create new spaces where men can grow in ways that benefit the entire profession.”
Association Forum is asking interested parties to stop by its booth at the ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition in Los Angeles, August 9–12, and to provide feedback via communication channels on associationforum. org
“Their expertise, especially the voices of those with lived experience, continue to shape how our industry shows up as part of the solution to this global crisis.”
The AHLA Foundation’s NRFT’s Survivor Fund was launched in 2023 to support community-based, anti-human trafficking organizations and initiatives. Since its inception, the fund has provided more than $2.35 million in grants to 27 organizations nationwide, the AHLA Foundation said.
well-documented; however, they also come with significant transportation challenges for both visitors and residents,” Travel Tech’s letter said. “These events place substantial pressure on local transportation systems, not only in the cities themselves but also in surrounding areas. For visitors, the tournament brings increased demand for flights, trains, buses, and local transit as fans travel between stadiums, accommodations, and fan zones. For residents, the influx can lead to major congestion, road closures, and frustrating disruptions to daily commutes and at airports. However, with expanded resources, host cities and surrounding areas will be better able to mitigate these issues to the benefit of all. Notably, these enhancements often leave a legacy of upgraded systems that serve residents long after the events conclude.”
Chadwick added that preparing U.S. cities to host high-profile international events is both a logistical necessity and a strategic opportunity to enhance the nation’s competitiveness in the worldwide travel and tourism economy.
Find more information at traveltech.org
In North Carolina, the Greensboro Area CVB (GACVB) hosted a welcome breakfast on July 29 to introduce its new President & CEO, Anthony Cordo (right). He is joined by Kelly Harrill, Chairman of the Greensboro/Guilford County Tourism Development Authority Board and Executive Vice President of Koury Hospitality Hotels.
Music City
continued from page 1
Boring Company, we’re exploring possibilities we couldn’t achieve on our own as a state,” said Lee. “This partnership represents the kind of forward-thinking, fiscally responsible approach that will define the future of transportation in Tennessee.”
The tunnel’s exact route hasn’t yet been finalized, but officials say groundbreaking could happen in a matter of weeks, with a projected two-year construction timeline, according to local station WTVF.
O’Connell wasn’t present at the governor’s announcement and issued a statement that said: “We are aware of the state’s conversations with the Boring Company, and we have a number of operational questions to understand the potential impacts on Metro and Nashvillians.”
Charles Starks, President & CEO of Nashville Music City Center, said the Loop
“will be an innovative, first-of-its-kind mode of transportation, transforming the way visitors travel to downtown and the Music City Center.”
Charles Starks, President & CEO of Nashville Music City Center, said the Loop “will be an innovative, first-of-its-kind mode of transportation, transforming the way visitors travel to downtown and the Music City Center.”
“Establishing seamless access from the airport will create a significant advantage as we work to recruit additional conventions to Nashville, strengthening our position as a premier destination for largescale events and driving continued economic growth,” said Starks.
However, Nashville Mayor Freddie
The Boring Company has been awarded the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Gold Standard Award, signifying the highest level of recognition for safety and emergency preparedness in a transportation system.
“The Boring Company is excited to bring our world class tunneling and transportation capabilities to Tennessee,” said Steve Davis, President of The Boring Company. “We are appreciative and grateful for the continued support and collaboration from the State of Tennessee, and local Nashville community and business leaders.”
The Las Vegas Loop has been operating since 2021, with the system using Tesla Model Y vehicles to shuttle passengers among five stations. The Boring Company has also canceled or postponed planned tunnels in Chicago, Fort Lauderdale, and Los Angeles.
Bryan Griffin
continued from page 1
of the state’s economy and “instrumental to Florida’s continued low tax burden.”
“I look forward to working closely with the board, our local partners, the tourism industry, and the Visit Florida staff to promote the shared values and unique features of the Free State of Florida, including our world-class amenities, unmatched natural and historical sites, and our commitment to public safety and order for all who visit,” said Griffin. “I hold tremendous respect for the state, regional, and local partnerships that embody Visit Florida and will work hard to enhance and grow them.”
Griffin previously worked for the London Center for Policy Research and the Maccabee Task Force. He holds a law degree from the University of Florida and pursued a master’s degree in international affairs, economics, and political development at Columbia University.
“I’m
proud to support Bryan Griffin in his new role leading Visit Florida,” said Dover.
“On behalf of the Board, we warmly welcome Bryan Griffin in his new role with Visit Florida,” said Eric Marshall, Sr. Vice President of Destination Sales, Universal Orlando Resort, and Chair of Visit Florida. “Bryan’s experience, commitment to public service, and extensive experience in marketing and communications will ensure Florida continues to be the #1 tourism destination.”
Griffin must still negotiate a start date and salary. Visit Florida board member Carol Dover, President & CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, said she hopes the contract can be worked out before the Governor’s Conference on Tourism on August 27, according to Orlando Weekly
“I’m proud to support Bryan Griffin in his new role leading Visit Florida,” said Dover. “Throughout his time with Governor DeSantis, Bryan has been a passionate advocate for Florida’s hospitality and tourism industry, and I look forward to continuing the strong partnership between our organizations.”
Bryan Griffin
NEWS NEWS
HSMAI Accepting Nominations for 2025 Adrian Awards
By Jordan Bradley
The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) announced on July 29 that it is now accepting entries for its annual 2025 Adrian Awards. Entries must be submitted by September 9. The awards recognize excellence in the spheres of hospitality and travel marketing. The 2025 theme is “The Exceptional Experience,” which “is a tribute to the powerful, personal, and transformative moments travel marketing creates,” the association
said.
Alongside the opening of nominations for the award, HSMAI announced it has “refreshed” the competition format to reflect “the evolution of hospitality and travel marketing in today’s dynamic media landscape.”
The 2025 theme is “The Exceptional Experience,” which “is a tribute to the powerful, personal, and transformative moments travel marketing creates,” the association said.
In the awards’ 69th iteration, hospitality and travel sales and marketing teams will be able to submit to one of 30 categories aligned with the latest platforms, tools, and strategic approaches, the association said. Categories also differentiate between paid,
Hospitality Software Company Launches Free Hotel Data Resource
By Jordan Bradley
A hospitality software company specializing in maximizing hotel operation efficiency has launched a new website that provides free data to help hoteliers plan better budgets.
Using its proprietary hospitality data, Actabl introduced HotelData. com on July 21 in an effort to provide insights and benchmarks for hoteliers that are rooted in real world hotel performance data instead of predictive data models.
“HotelData.com’s mission is to empower the people who power hospitality by making data both accessible and actionable,” said Sarah McCay Tams, Head of Editorial, Actabl.
Just a handful of days prior, Actabl released its inaugural budget planning guide for hoteliers.
“Closing the Budget Gap: A Hotelier’s Guide to 2026 Planning” focuses on key hotel industry metrics, including labor costs, revenue per available room (RevPAR), average daily room rate (ADR), and gross operating profit (GOP). The guide also offers hoteliers strategic recommendations to improve efficiency across those metrics in order to better plan 2026 budgets.
As part of the data, the guide also shows what hotels actually budgeted for their 2025 fiscal years, how forecasts have changed and real hotel performance.
“Hotel leaders often rely on guesswork or outdated benchmarks when planning. HotelData.com changes that,” McCay Tams said. “Using Actabl’s aggregated hotel data, it provides a snapshot of actual market
earned, owned and multi-channel/ integrated media acknowledging “the rise of integrated, cross-platform campaigns,” HSMAI said.
The Adrian Awards’ 2025 categories include: affiliate marketing; app; artificial intelligence (AI); artificial intelligence (AI) video; broadcast: audio; broadcast television: traditional TV, cable or streaming; broadcast integration; business-to-business/trade campaign; consumer brand campaign; community & culture impact; content marketing; contest/sweepstakes; experiential marketing; feature placement trade media; feature placement consumer media; influencer/content creation; innovation; new opening/ launch; print collateral; purpose-driven campaigns; relaunch of existing property or product; reputation management; search marketing; social media; social media channel growth; special event; technology; video; virtual reality, Metaverse, gaming, NFT; and website.
marketing today,” said Brian Hicks, President and CEO of HSMAI. “From AI-generated content to purpose-driven and experiential campaigns to immersive technologies, the Adrian Awards continue to evolve with the industry—while remaining grounded in what has always mattered: strategy, storytelling, and results.”
Entries will be judged by the Adrian Awards Judging Academy, a panel of veteran professionals from the hospitality, media, digital marketing, and communications sectors. The judges will independently review each entry and score it across five criteria—objectives, strategy, creativity, execution, and results, HSMAI said.
performance, giving hoteliers clear and timely insights they can trust to build budgets, optimize staffing, validate investments, and navigate an increasingly complex market with confidence.”
Actabl’s 2026 budget planning guide found that though RevPAR “underperformed,” ADR stayed “relatively steady, suggesting pricing discipline despite softer demand.”
The guide also found that labor costs have continued to rise this year when compared to 2024, but hotels included in the data set maintained GOP levels close to their budgets. Labor costs also varied “significantly” by property type in the first half of 2025, Actabl found.
Actabl said as the hospitality industry evolves, it “will continue to expand” and update HotelData.com regularly to ensure that hoteliers have access to the latest insights “on top-line performance metrics, bottom-line profitability, and key operational drivers across labor efficiency, staffing productivity, and cost trends.”
“A strong hotel budget should be forward-looking but context aware,” the 2025 planning guide reads. “This year’s expected performance is the most important input, as it drives operational decisions and resource planning. However, comparing to last year adds valuable perspective, especially when communicating with stakeholders and measuring progress.”
For more information, visit hoteldata.com.
To view the planning guide, visit www.hoteldata.com/ hotel-budget-guide
“This year’s expanded category set reflects the creativity, complexity, and innovation that define hospitality
Entries will be recognized in three categories: small, medium, and large budget tiers. The top entries in each budget tier will be considered for the awards’ “Best in Show” recognition. Winners will be celebrated at the HSMAI Adrian Awards Celebration on February 18, 2026, in New York City. To submit entries and see the full list of categories, visit adrianawards.hsmai.org
Raleigh Convention
Center Receives IAVM’s 2025 Venue Excellence Award
By Jonathan Trager
The Raleigh Convention Center received the 2025 Venue Excellence Award from the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM) at its VenueConnect event, the North Carolina facility announced on July 29.
The Venue Excellence Award was presented at the event in New Orleans held from July 28–31. The award recognizes five IAVM venues of any type within the membership that demonstrate excellence in the management and operation of public assembly venues.
“We’re thrilled to be recognized by our peers as an industry-leading venue,” said Raleigh Convention Center General Manager Mara Craft.
“The Raleigh Convention Center team is full of exceptional people who care about making everyone who comes through our doors feel special. This award embodies what we’ve worked toward for the more than 20 years I’ve been here, creating a venue where excellent moments happen.”
The Raleigh Convention Center,
which is LEED Silver certified, has welcomed more than 6.5 million guests since opening in 2008 and hosted 163 events in the last year. Staff are trained in crowd safety and accessibility for neurodiversity and is currently undergoing an expansion that will add an additional 350,000 square feet to the facility.
Kerry Painter, Executive Director of the Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex, said receiving the award “is so special during what’s already such an exciting time for the Raleigh Convention Center.”
“We’re committed to making excellent moments here, and to making Raleigh recognized as a top-tier global destination,” said Painter. “Receiving the Venue Excellence Award from the International Association of Venue Managers means that all the hard work of our great team is paying off, and the industry is taking notice of Raleigh internationally. We can’t wait to continue that with our upcoming 350,000 sq. ft. expansion that will take our already excellent venue to new heights.”
NEWS NEWS
A Signature Team Offering at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Immersed in soft South Carolina breezes and Lowcountry landscapes, Kiawah Island Golf Resort is an idyllic meetings destination. An island oasis where the lazy rustle of towering palms harmonizes with the chatter of resident dolphins along a ten-mile stretch of stunning shoreline, it’s where energizing sunrises partner with invigorating blue and green spaces to invite a fresh take on collaboration. It’s also home to an exclusive group offering
Between November 1, 2025 and February 28, 2026, your team can stay in a private Villa and gather steps from the ocean at the West Beach Conference Center from $160 per night—with full resort access and world-class amenities.*
Meetings at the West Beach Conference Center offer a refreshing approach to business as usual. Think chic, open-concept layouts, abundant natural lighting and expansive windows peering out to panoramic vistas. Delivering an impressive 23,000 square feet of customizable and inviting space, the conference center has earned the reputation for being the ideal location for all group gatherings, from candid executive sitdowns to formal events of up to 1,000 attendees.
Southern hospitality and attention to detail is at the root of every experience at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, big and small. A conference team and knowledgeable on-site AV professionals help ensure a flawless presentation. Chef-driven menus provide sumptuous offerings to complement the essence of every occasion—from exquisite dinners to the resort’s longstanding traditional Oyster Roast and BBQ held along the
banks of the serene Kiawah River.
The 15 restaurants, cafés and eateries at the resort, known as The Kiawah Dining Collection, feature an array of culinary styles that cater to every palate. Choices range from top-tier cuts of steaks served at the Five-Star Ocean Room to freshcaught seafood delicacies at The Atlantic Room. Casual fare favorites include Tomasso’s hand-crafted pizzas, shrimp and grits at Jasmine Porch, and specialty milkshakes at Beaches & Cream. The Nest Market | Café at Night Heron Park is perfect for grab-and-go fare needed for active island days. Along with this
extensive selection of flavors comes plenty of places to socialize, such as charming seaside pubs, distinguished golf clubhouses and relaxing poolside lounge areas.
At Kiawah Island Golf Resort attendees can explore the wonders of the island at their leisure either solo or with the team. Guided nature tours offer an immersive look at the property’s rich ecosystems. Guests can journey through subtropical forest trails. View native wildlife in their coastal habits. Watch local bird species make their way along the shore and the sky. Loggerhead Sea Turtles, alligators, native plants and butterflies—they all offer an exciting glimpse at the island’s biodiversity. As interesting as the adventures are on land, they are just as rewarding on the water. Kayaking tours, fishing charters, sunset cruises and stand-up paddleboarding provide your team with optimal ways to cool off and have fun along refreshing waterways. Meandering salt marshes, lagoons, the Atlantic Ocean and the tranquil Kiawah River deliver endless possibilities.
Strategic indoor sessions can be followed by energetic escapades. Co-workers can connect during tennis and pickleball matches or while biking, jogging or walking
more than 30 miles of paved trails that wind through the resort’s scenic surroundings. Fitness classes and yoga on the beach for all levels and all ages are other excellent routes attendees can take to recharge and renew.
Golfers and non-golfers alike will be thrilled by Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s five championship golf courses —the famed Ocean Course designed by Pete and Alice Dye, Turtle Point by Jack Nicklaus, Oak Point by Clyde Johnston, Cougar Point by Gary Player, and Osprey Point by Tom Fazio. Meticulously maintained and consistently ranked among the top courses in the nation, they are a salute to awe-inspiring layouts designed by and played by golf’s greatest. Before or after a round, catch up and unwind in golf clubhouses that capture the distinct history of each course.
A stay at Private Villas not only delivers sensational ocean, golf and beach views. It offers comfort, privacy and exclusive resort amenities as well. Guests enjoy access to two pool complexes, preferred pricing and tee times for golf on all five courses, complimentary on-island transportation, and other privileges. Make your next event unforgettable. Host your team on the striking shores of Kiawah Island Golf Resort. *Get complete details regarding this exclusive offer and learn more at MeetAtKiawah.
