"I appreciate all of the work you have done to make AHLA a leading association which helps all of the hotel brands with many of the issues impacting our industry.  Your team has helped us with important legislative issues that have affected hotels across the country."

Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board, Marriott International, Inc.

"Through the years our paths have crossed and I have admired your skill, your integrity, your kindness, and your passion for out industry and for those you work with and are with.  . . .   Joe - you 'know' a lot, but most importantly you 'care' greatly."

SVP, Owner & Franchise Services - Starwood Hotels and Resorts

“I have known Joe since the mid-seventies and worked both directly and indirectly with him in all of his professional incarnations in North America and in Asia.  He is a true professional but more, a truly good, compassionate and empathetic family man and, above all, friend.  Joe has the broadest swath of professional and industry association skills of any person I know.”

Founder of Strategic Hotels and Resorts

“Your leadership of the association and numerous other contributions to our industry have been instrumental in position AH&LA as a tier one group in Washington, DC and throughout the States.  When I look back at the incredible success that you have achieved, I think about the early days at Sheraton when you and I were just cutting our teeth.  It is a long way from the front desk of the Sheraton Chicago to 60 State Street to walking the halls of Congress.”

Chairman of Interstate Hotels & Resorts

“As an industry executive, I thank you for the great things you did to advance the interests of our industry.  We will enjoy the fruits of your efforts for years to come.  Your leadership and sincere advocacy had powerful impact on all who had the benefit of working with you.”

President and CEO of Hyatt Hotels Corporation

“We also cannot thank you enough for your commitment to the long range sustainability of the AH&LA.  Your selfless dedication to seeing through, not just an incremental change, but a revolutionary way forward so that we can serve our hotels, our employees and our industry for years to come.”

President of The Americas InterContinental Hotels Group

“The example you have set at AH&LA has been invaluable to me and I thank you for it.  There have been a few times here at the National Restaurant Association; as we’ve set a new strategic plan in action fine-tuned the mission of our Foundation, looked at our existing membership model, when I’ve thought, ‘Now what would Joe do?’”

President and CEO of National Restaurant Association