Rahul Patel officially assumed the role of Chairman of the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) at the conclusion of AAHOACON26, the association’s annual convention and trade show, held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia.

Patel’s leadership theme, “Strong Roots, Stronger AAHOA,” emphasizes strengthening the association’s foundation through deeper member engagement and shared experiences. His priorities include protecting members’ profitability, advocating for solutions to rising insurance costs, expanding AAHOA’s educational offerings to support stronger financial and operational decision-making, and ensuring fairness in franchise relationships by addressing burdensome regulations and mandates that impact hotel owners.

“As chairman, my focus is simple: strong roots and an even stronger AAHOA,” Patel said. “That means deeper member engagement, greater accountability, and ensuring every resource we build delivers real value to the people we serve.”

Patel’s appointment marks the culmination of a leadership journey that began with his election as secretary in 2023.

“On behalf of AAHOA, I congratulate Rahul as he begins his term as chairman,” said Laura Lee Blake, President and CEO of AAHOA. “Rahul is a thoughtful, collaborative leader with a strong focus on member engagement and building meaningful connections across our association. I look forward to working closely with him to strengthen AAHOA’s advocacy efforts, deepen member involvement, and continue advancing an organization that truly reflects the strength and diversity of America’s hotel owners.”

New Secretary and Board of Directors Announced

During AAHOACON26, AAHOA also announced its Board of Directors for the 2026–27 term, including newly elected Secretary Dhiren Masters.

“As we welcome our new board of directors for the 2026–27 term, I’m excited to work alongside leaders who are deeply committed to engaging our members and strengthening the AAHOA community,” said Chairman Rahul Patel. “Our focus is on listening, connecting, and ensuring every member understands the value of their involvement as we work together to advance the interests of hotel owners and the industry.”

Blake added, “I’m proud to welcome our new board of directors and congratulate our newly elected secretary on this important leadership role. The experience, perspectives, and dedication of our board members are essential to AAHOA’s success, and their leadership will help drive meaningful advocacy, member support, and growth for our association in the year ahead.”

Masters expressed enthusiasm for his new role, stating, “I’m ready for the new generation to come into AAHOA and help guide the industry and the association, bringing new ideas and elevating AAHOA to the next level. This election signifies that members trust me to do the right thing for the association and its membership, and I will work hard to fulfill that responsibility.”

Masters most recently served as AAHOA North Texas Regional Director and brings nine years of leadership experience within the organization, including six years on the Board of Directors. His service includes roles with the Texas Hotel & Lodging Association and multiple AAHOA committees, including Strategic Planning, Education & Professional Development, E-Commerce, Technology and Innovation, and the Young Professionals Focus Group.

Newly Elected Board Members

AAHOA members elected the following individuals to serve as Regional and Specialty Directors:

• Arkansas Regional Director: Animesh (Andy) Patel

• Central Midwest Regional Director: Jignesh (Jig) Patel

• Georgia Regional Director: Nilesh (Nelly) Patel

• Greater Los Angeles Area Regional Director: Ghanshyamsinh (GJ) Zala

• Gulf Regional Director: Mayur (Mack) Patel

• North Central Regional Director: Bhavin N. Patel

• North Pacific Regional Director: Ankit Panchal

• North Texas Regional Director: Anant (Andy) Patel

• South Florida Regional Director: Meghna Patel

• Women Hoteliers Director, Eastern Division: Purnima Patel

• Young Professional Director, Eastern Division: Moon Patel

Industry Partner Appointments

The AAHOA Board also welcomed three industry partners for the 2026–27 term:

• Fahem Khan, Executive Director – Head of Lodging & Hospitality SMB Payments, JPMorgan Chase & Co.

• Nil Kumar, President/Chief Product Officer, Anand Systems Inc.

• Kevin Sloan, Managing Partner, Gauthier, Murphy & Houghtaling LLC

  
  

Who are AAHOA

The Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) is the largest hotel owners association in the world, representing the interests of hotel owners across the United States through advocacy, education, and community engagement.