USA, Columbus, Ohio. January 17, 2022

The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) has announced that Jim Merkel, CEO, Rockbridge has joined its Board of Directors.

AHLA's Board represents leaders from all sectors of the lodging industry, including brands, owners, and real estate investment trusts (REITs), management companies, independent hotels, and state associations. Jim will be part of vital discussions concerning a broad range of industry- and association-related issues at a pivotal time for the industry's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Coming on the heels of record membership and engagement over the past two years, AHLA is launching a new strategic plan to guide the future of the association.

"Over the course of my 25-year career in hospitality, the AHLA has never been more important to our industry by providing a strong, united voice in our communities, in Washington, and nationwide. It's why I'm excited to join the AHLA Board of Directors," said Jim Merkel, CEO, Rockbridge. "I'm honored to have the opportunity to help further the efforts of the AHLA, working in collaboration with such a strong group of industry peers."

"I am pleased to welcome Jim to the AHLA Board," said Chip Rodgers, president and CEO of AHLA. "We are grateful to members such as Jim who volunteer their time and energy to ensure that AHLA and our industry are successful.

"As we look ahead to 2022 and beyond, I'm incredibly proud of the diversity and depth of experience our Board members bring to the table at such an important time for hotels. Our collective voice as an industry is stronger than ever in both Washington, D.C. and in city halls and state capitols across the country. There's no doubt that Jim's leadership and experience will serve our industry well as we move our policy agenda forward," said Rogers.