Board of Directors: Chairman

Miraj S. Patel, MBA, CHIA, CHO, serves as the Chairman of AAHOA, the youngest serving in the position in the association’s 35-year history. AAHOA is the world's largest hotel owners association with 20,000 members that collectively own 60 percent of the hotels in the United States and are responsible for 1.7% of the nation’s GDP.

Miraj is a second-generation hotelier who began his career in hospitality from a young age growing up in his family’s first 30-room independent property. Today, Miraj is President of Wayside Investment Group, a Texas-based company that specializes in making opportunistic investments in the lodging and hospitality real estate sector. He has spoken at several prestigious and high-profile business, educational, social, and legislative conferences; while being recognized in various trade magazines.

Over the years, Miraj has exemplified a strong track record of leadership in the industry. Currently, he serves as a Director at Large of Texas Hotel & Lodging Association, the nation's largest state hotel association with over 5,000 members representing every aspect of the lodging and tourism industry. Miraj has previously served on the Red Roof Brand Council and the Best Western Texas Co-op. Aside from his devotion to the hospitality industry, he is a firm believer in giving back to the community. He serves on various industry associations and charitable organizations, and continues to seek opportunities to make a positive difference.

Miraj earned his Master's in Business Administration, and his Bachelor of Science degree in Hotel and Lodging Management from Johnson and Wales University in Miami, Florida.