At its annual convention and trade show in Houston, Texas, last week, the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) honored Nancy Johnson, Carlson Rezidor executive vice president of Development, as its 2012 Outstanding Woman Hotelier of the Year.

AAHOA’s Woman of the Year award is presented to outstanding individuals who have demonstrated strong leadership qualities, a commitment to lodging excellence, and made significant contributions to the industry and her community. Nancy shares the 2012 honor with Priti Patel of Atlanta, Ga.

“I am proud of Nancy’s accomplishments in the industry,” said Bob Kleinschmidt, chief development and financial officer, Americas. “She has a reputation that precedes her, and no matter where we go, she is known and loved. She inspires us all.”

A 25-year veteran of Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, Nancy’s career in hospitality has taken her from hotel line staff, to chair of the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AH&LA) in 2012. Her work over the years to found AH&LA’s Women in Lodging (WIL) Council, which now has chapters in more than 25 states, is a living legacy to her commitment to the personal and professional development of  women and aspiring hospitality students throughout the industry.

“Our award winners symbolize the drive, determination and dedication that are the basis for AAHOA’s mission,” said AAHOA Chairman Mehul Patel. “These are not only men and women of business, they are men and women of character— and we salute them for their powerful contribution to our industry and to their communities.”

“One of the important, intangible resources of AAHOA is the character of our members,” added Fred Schwartz, president of AAHOA. “These award winners underscore the special qualities which are the basis for their success in business and in their communities.”

Please join in congratulating Nancy on this well-deserved honor. To view the entire list of awards presented at AAHOA, click here.

Pictured at right (L-R): AAHOA's Chairman Mehul Patel; Immediate Past Chairman Alkesh Patel; Nancy Johnson; Treasurer Jay “Jimmy” Patel; President Fred Schwartz; and Vice Chairman Pratik Patel.