THE AHLA FOUNDATION, is re-launching its ForWard program, created to advance women in leadership and ownership within the hotel industry, and plans to
integrate the program with the recently acquired Castell Project, an organization focused on promoting women in hospitality leadership. Also, the foundation
presented the 2023 Peggy Berg Castell Award to Julienne Smith, IHG Hotels & Resorts' chief development officer for the Americas.
The integration of ForWard and the Castell Project will result in a unified platform offering resources, events, professional development, and community-building
opportunities, the AHLA Foundation said in a statement.
"There is tremendous opportunity for us to do more to celebrate, champion, and create community for women," said Anna Blue, president of AHLA Foundation, the
charitable arm of the American Hotel and Lodging Association. "AHLA Foundation is uniquely positioned to collaborate across industry and invest in the women who
are advancing hospitality."