The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), the American Hotel & Lodging Foundation, and the BHN Group announced a new award to recognize and honor the transformational leadership of industry icon, Arne Sorenson, former president and CEO of Marriott International, who passed away earlier this year.
The Arne Sorenson Social Impact Leadership Award will be awarded in memory of Sorenson annually during the AHLA Foundation’s premier fundraising gala, the annual Night of a Thousand Stars and during the annual Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS).
Known for his progressive leadership, Sorenson used his platform as the head of a major international corporation to address national and global issues—including, among others, diversity, equity, and inclusion; environmental sustainability; and human trafficking awareness and prevention. The Arne Sorenson Social Impact Leadership Award will be presented to a senior-level executive in the lodging industry who strives to drive change through strong leadership and community engagement, exemplifying these values every day.
The first honoree will be announced in January 2022 at the AHLA Foundation’s Night of a Thousand Stars gala. More information on nominations to follow.