MERRILLVILLE, Ind., Jan. 12, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- White Lodging of Merrillville, IN is pleased to announce the appointment of Andy Crowel and Amber Thomas to key positions at the new Courtyard Fort Wayne Downtown.

Crowel, the General Manager of the new property, has been with White Lodging for 18 years, and brings extensive experience to his new role. A graduate of Purdue University, Crowel most recently served as the General Manager of the Marriott Austin South. He began his career with White Lodging as a Restaurant Manager, and throughout the years has continued to work his way up through various positions within the organization.

He has received numerous awards including White Lodging General Manager of the Year, and Marriott Regional General Manager of the Year, and has consistently delivered exceptional guest satisfaction scores and revenue improvements. In addition to his work with White Lodging, he has also served on the Board of Directors with the Goodwill Industry of Central Texas for 10 years.

Amber Thomas joins the team as the Director of Sales. Thomas who has been with White Lodging since 2006, comes to Fort Wayne from her most recent position as Director of Sales for the Hilton Garden Inn St George, Utah.  With more than 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Thomas brings a vast knowledge of the convention business.  

"White Lodging is very excited to have the caliber of Andy Crowel and Amber Thomas leading our sales efforts at this exciting new project in Fort Wayne," says John Randall, Regional Vice President for White Lodging.

This hotel, expected to open in September 2010, is part of the new developments in downtown Fort Wayne and Harrison Square.  Introducing the new Courtyard concept of "Refreshing Business" with cutting edge technology, the property and services will be smart, energizing and offer choices.  The Courtyard by Marriott Fort Wayne Downtown at the Grand Wayne Center will be complimented by a Champions Restaurant and Sports Bar.

For advance sales information regarding the Courtyard please call (260)490-3629 Employment inquiries should be directed to careers.whitelodging.com or call the White Lodging  home office at 219-769-3267 ext. 4376.