WASHINGTON (March 18, 2024) – AHLA Foundation, the charitable arm of the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA), today announced its 2024 officers and Board of Trustees, further diversifying the board’s representation of industry segments. 

Julienne Smith, Chief Development Officer, Americas at IHG Hotels & Resorts was appointed Chair of the Board, succeeding RLJ Lodging Trust Chief Operating Officer and EVP Tom Bardenett. Bardenett will remain on the 2024 Board as Immediate Past Chair, serving with President and Global Head of Hilton Supply Management Anu Saxena as the board’s Vice Chair and Summit Hotel Properties President & CEO Jonathan Stanner as the board’s Secretary/Treasurer. 

“I am thrilled and honored to step into the role as Chair of the AHLA Foundation,” said Julienne Smith. “The Foundation’s work focuses on the single most important thing in our industry – supporting our people, who are the heart of our hotels and who make hospitality a fantastic career path.” 

AHLA Foundation welcomed three new members to the Board of Trustees: Amber Asher, CEO, Standard International; Kevin Osterhaus, President, Graduate Hotels; and Harry Javer, Founder & President, The Conference Bureau. 

“Supporting the hotel workforce, the people at the heart of this industry, is at the center of AHLA Foundation’s work,” said AHLA Foundation President Anna Blue. “Our Board plays a vital role in advancing our mission, and the leadership and guidance of these industry leaders will set the stage for deeper impact and even greater reach.” 

See the full list of AHLA Foundation Board of Trustees here. 

About AHLA Foundation 

The AHLA Foundation, the charitable arm of the American Hotel & Lodging Association, works to support the hotel and lodging industry’s greatest asset – our people. By connecting employees, employers, and their communities, we seek to continuously nurture a culture of professional growth and belonging. When the people who work in our industry thrive, the industry thrives along with them. The Foundation is funded by grants and charitable contributions from generous individuals and organizations who want to support individuals seeking opportunities to thrive in the hotel and lodging industry. Learn more at www.ahlafoundation.org.