By Laura Lee Blake, ESQ., AAHOA President & CEO

Building a Legacy of Leadership
In mid-September, hundreds of AAHOA Members traveled to Washington, D.C., for our Fall National Advocacy Conference (FNAC). Together, we met with policymakers, shared our stories, and advocated for the best interests of America’s hotel owners. The presence of Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Kelly Loeffler was a reminder that small business owners – hoteliers like you – are a driving force of the U.S. economy.
This event was not just about a few days in Washington. It was about building a lasting legacy. President Theodore Roosevelt once said, “Far and away the best prize that life has to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.” Advocacy is that kind of work. It is the foundation on which we protect our businesses, create opportunities, and secure a brighter future for future generations.
Advocacy as a Call to Action
Our members’ presence on Capitol Hill demonstrates the strength and influence of AAHOA. When we tell our stories, we bring a face to the challenges of small business ownership. We remind lawmakers that behind every hotel is a family, a workforce, and a community.
Advocacy is not a once-a-year activity; it is a mindset. It is our responsibility to remain engaged, informed, and united. At AAHOA, we are committed to amplifying your voice and ensuring every hotel owner has a seat at the table where decisions are made.
As we reflect on FNAC, let us carry that energy forward. Together, we are shaping the future of our businesses and strengthening the very fabric of the American Dream.
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