The California Hotel & Lodging Association (CHLA) has announced its 2025 Board of Directors, marking a pivotal moment for California's hospitality industry. The election took place during CHLA's annual meeting at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco, showcasing a renewed commitment to leadership excellence and innovation in the state's dynamic lodging sector.
Cormac O'Modhrain, Group Vice President of Asset Management at Sunstone Hotel Investors, has been appointed as the 2025 CHLA Board Chair. He succeeds Dhruv Patel, President and COO of Ridgemont Hospitality, who will now serve as Immediate Past Chair. Alongside O'Modhrain, an experienced team of officers will guide the association's initiatives:
"This team brings invaluable expertise and dedication to CHLA," said Lynn S. Mohrfeld, CHLA President & CEO. "Together, we are poised to strengthen California's hospitality industry, advocate for our members, and address the challenges of 2025."
O'Modhrain expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating, "I am honored to lead CHLA in 2025. Our board is dedicated to engaging our membership and advancing advocacy efforts to ensure a thriving future for our industry."
To further bolster CHLA's mission, the association has welcomed three new board members whose diverse insights will enhance its strategic direction:
In addition to these new appointments, CHLA has renewed the terms of nine key members, reaffirming their continued contributions to the organization:
The 2025 Board represents a cross-section of industry leaders dedicated to addressing California's evolving hospitality landscape.
Founded in 1893, CHLA is the nation's largest state lodging industry association. It serves as the primary advocate and resource for over 6,000 hotels, motels, and boutique inns in California collectively employing more than 235,000 workers. The association works closely with the American Hotel & Lodging Association to address industry-wide challenges and opportunities.
CHLA's leadership emphasizes policy advocacy, workforce development, and innovation aiming to maintain California's reputation as a global leader in hospitality. The announcement of the 2025 Board underscores the association's ongoing efforts to navigate industry challenges while promoting growth and sustainability.
As California's hospitality sector rebounds from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic; new board priorities include addressing labor shortages; enhancing sustainability practices; advocating for policies that support hotel operators and workers alike.
Additionally; with rising alternative lodging options & shifting traveler expectations; CHLA aims providing resources/insights helping members remain competitive.
The association focus on diversity/innovation reflects broader trends shaping industry by fostering collaboration among its members; continues building stronger/more resilient hospitality ecosystem.