The Hunter Hotel Investment Conference (“HUNTER”) is thrilled to highlight the past and future icons of our industry with a session devoted to legacy as the event celebrates its 35^th anniversary this coming March. The session will showcase a captivating fireside chat with Anthony Capuano, President and CEO of Marriott International, interviewed by Mitch Patel, CEO of Vision Hospitality Group. This intimate discussion, which combines the perspectives of a major brand leader with a seasoned hotel owner and developer, is one of the many additions to HUNTER’s 2024 program.

Taking the HUNTER stage for the first time as CEO, Capuano will pay tribute to trailblazers in the industry while also discussing the pressing topics in hospitality today and his vision for the future. Capuano will delve into the intricate story of Marriott International's history, paying homage to the enduring legacy of the Marriott family while honoring the impactful contributions of the late Arne Sorenson, his predecessor. The session promises to highlight the delicate balance between preserving tradition and pioneering innovation within the hospitality industry.

Joining Marriott in 1995, Capuano has had a front-row seat to the company's remarkable evolution. Having once received a rejection letter from Marriott as a fresh college graduate, Capuano will reflect on the pivotal mentors who led him to fill the biggest shoes at the company today. His journey within Marriott, from various leadership positions to overseeing global development, design, and operations, reflects commitment to building a lasting impact in the industry. With extensive experience in market planning, feasibility analysis, and hotel development, Capuano ensures Marriott remains a global leader in hospitality.

“HUNTER never fails to provide a thought-provoking forum for our industry to come together and share ideas. I’m looking forward to seeing what this year holds and sharing the stage with Mitch, a long-time colleague and friend,” says Capuano. “Over the past few years, we’ve seen the proven power and resilience of travel, and I couldn’t be prouder to work in this industry alongside such innovative and creative minds.”

Mitch Patel founded Vision Hospitality Group in 1997 with the aim of creating a company dedicated to excellence with a focus on community and family. On top of an impressive career with over 60 hotels developed, 15 hotels in the pipeline, and 42 hotels in their portfolio, Patel is passionate about building a lasting impact on the industry, with a focus in his hometown of Chattanooga, where he maintains his presence on boards of local organizations that support education, economic development, and ending human trafficking.

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"This 35th year of the HUNTER Conference marks a milestone, providing a platform for meaningful discussion that shapes our industry and facilitates partnerships," Patel expresses. "I'm honored to have this exciting dialogue about legacy in hospitality alongside Tony, our brand partner, my friend, and one of our industry's greatest leaders."

Attendees can expect to gain invaluable insights into the visionary strategies shaping the future of the industry, as Capuano and Patel engage in a thought-provoking dialogue on navigating challenges, seizing opportunities, and building upon their own legacy while honoring the past. The session is set to take place on HUNTER’s main stage at 10:15 a.m. ET on Wednesday, March 20^th.

"We are thrilled to commemorate the 35th anniversary of HUNTER by honoring the stories of those who have paved the way for us," said Lee Hunter, Chairman of the Hunter Hotel Investment Conference. "At its core, HUNTER is a conference for hotel owners, developers, franchises, and investors. I am confident that our attendees will resonate with the stories, values, and goals that Tony and Mitch will share.”

For more information about HUNTER and to register for the event, visit www.hunterconference.com.

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