Broussard, LA (April 17, 2025) – Vimal “Ricky” Patel, a veteran hotelier and active industry advocate, has been elected Secretary of the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) for the 2025-2026 term. The announcement came during AAHOA’s Annual Convention & Trade Show in New Orleans.
AAHOA members elected Patel to the association’s Secretary position, the first step in AAHOA’s four-year officer progression that culminates with the chairmanship.
“I am deeply honored to serve as AAHOA’s Secretary during this critical time for our industry,” said Patel. “As someone who began my journey cleaning rooms in my first motel and continues to operate hotels today, I understand firsthand the challenges our members face. My focus will be on delivering measurable results that protect our members’ investments and improve their bottom line.”
Patel brings more than two decades of hotel ownership and operations experience to his role. His advocacy work has previously resulted in significant wins for hoteliers, including securing property tax reductions, COVID-relief grants, and defeating harmful occupancy taxes.
“Our industry is at a crossroads, facing challenges from increasing brand mandates, rising insurance costs, and economic pressures,” Patel added. “I’m committed to bringing members together to address these issues with practical solutions that work for hoteliers of all sizes – from independent operators to owners of multiple branded properties.”
Patel’s key initiatives will focus on financial accountability, advocacy effectiveness, and creating inclusive programs for independent hoteliers, women in hospitality, and young professionals entering the industry.
The new Secretary will begin his term immediately, serving alongside the association’s 2025-2026 Officers and Board of Directors.
About AAHOA
AAHOA is the largest hotel owner’s association in the United States, with nearly 20,000 members who own more than 60% of all hotels in the country. AAHOA’s more than 36,000 member-owned hotels employ over one million people nationwide. AAHOA members are essential economic pillars in virtually every community, embodying the spirit of entrepreneurship and representing a prominent modern-day example of achieving the American Dream.
