AAHOA is proud to recognize AAHOA Member Rhea Patel for her recent appointment to the Ohio Hotel & Lodging Association's Emerging Professionals Committee.

This committee brings together rising leaders in hospitality across Ohio, and Rhea’s involvement is a great example of how young professionals, especially women, are stepping up, getting involved, and forging their own paths in what has long been a male-dominated industry.

“Getting involved in different industry organizations as a young professional has meant so much more than just networking for me,” Rhea shared. “These platforms have given me the chance to invest in my future in hospitality — through learning opportunities, leadership growth, and connecting with mentors who've helped me build the confidence to keep growing and pushing forward as a young woman in the industry.”

Rhea has served on the AAHOA Women Hoteliers Committee and the AAHOA Young Professionals Committee and received an AAHOA HYPE (Helping Young Professionals Evolve) 35 Under 35 Award at AAHOACON25 this past April. 

Rhea’s story reminds us of the value of showing up, seeking growth, and building relationships. We’re excited to see her continue making an impact and to see more young professionals follow her lead.