Nancy Johnson Inducted as 2012 AH&LA Chair

As the founder of Women in Lodging (WIL), Johnson told the gathering of industry leaders, "When I looked at the hotel industry, I knew there were many accomplished women executives, the problem was they were not visible. I believed if we did not set up role models for our women employees and hospitality students, they would not look at the hotel industry as having potential for a long-term career and the industry would be deprived of valuable intellectual capital."

She asked her industry peers "Are we as an industry and organization doing what we should to prepare and shape our future in a positive way? During the next 12 months we will be looking at how AH&LA can restructure to better meet the needs of an ever-changing industry and workplace, putting razor like focus on what matters most to our members."

She stressed she'd like her term to be about putting programs in place for growth and opportunity for young people about to begin their careers and those who will soon be seeking careers. Another key item on her platform is the importance of industry involvement on Capitol Hill. "Our voice has been heard loud and clear in Washington on almost 30 separate issues that will shape our future, but I would consider one of the most important accomplishments to have happened behind the scenes – the creation of the Discover America Partnership."

Johnson oversees business development efforts for Carlson Hotels' select service hotel brands in the Americas including, Country Inns & Suites By Carlson^SM and Park Inn by Radisson. In addition to her many years of leadership in development for Carlson Hotels, she previously led Franchise Operations for full-service hotels and has served as executive vice president and brand leader for the company's select service brands. Carlson's other lodging brands include Radisson® and Park Plaza®.

Before joining Carlson, Johnson was vice president and chief operating officer at Hospitality Development Corporation, and was employed with Brutger Companies, Inc., where she held various leadership positions.

Johnson is a member of several AH&LA committees, including the Economy Lodging Council, the Governmental Affairs/HotelPAC Committee, and the Women in Lodging Executive Council, as well as the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Foundation board of trustees. Johnson also serves on the board of directors of the International Hotel & Restaurant Association and on the board of directors for The Travel Partnership Corporation (TTPC), a consortium of travel industry organizations representing all key segments of the industry.

The inaugural gala is presented by American Express along with Carlson, France 24, Heartland Payment Systems, and Sealy, Inc.

In addition to Johnson, 2012 AH&LA officers Vice Chair Ronald Vlasic, regional vice president of hotels, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants; and Immediate Past Chair John Campbell, general manager of the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, La Jolla, California. These hoteliers are led by AH&LA President/CEO Joseph A. McInerney, CHA.