Washington, D.C. – May 10, 2013 – The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) applauds the appointment of Trudy Rautio, president and CEO of Carlson, to the U.S. Department of Commerce Travel and Tourism Advisory Board (TTAB).  The announcement was made today by Deputy Secretary of Commerce Rebecca Blank.

Established by the Commerce Department in 2003, TTAB provides advice and guidance to the Secretary on travel and tourism issues, including those facing the lodging industry.  Members also provide critical input on the National Travel and Tourism Strategy and track and report on the progress of President Obama’s January 2012 Executive Order pertaining to travel and tourism.

Rautio has been on the senior executive team of Carlson for 15 years, having previously served as executive vice president and chief financial and administration officer.  She also served as president of Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, Americas, with overall responsibility for the operation and growth of the company's four hotel brands in North and South America.  Her appointment continues a longstanding relationship between the Commerce Department and Carlson, an active member of TTAB for several years.

“Trudy is an outstanding choice for a seat on the Travel and Tourism Advisory Board,” said Katherine Lugar, AH&LA president and CEO.  “The travel and tourism industry is one of the main drivers of our national economy, and one of the largest employers and a top 10 industry in 48 of the 50 states.  With her experience, Trudy brings an invaluable first-hand perspective on the issues facing American business, views which will be of tremendous importance in her role as advisor and advocate for the lodging industry.”

“This is a tremendous honor for Trudy and her colleagues at Carlson, and we look forward to assisting her in this new role,” continued Lugar.

About the AH&LA
Serving the hospitality industry for more than a century, AH&LA is the sole national association representing all sectors and stakeholders in the lodging industry, including individual hotel property members, hotel companies, student and faculty members, and industry suppliers. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., AH&LA provides members with national advocacy on Capitol Hill, public relations and image management, education, research and information, and other value-added services to provide bottom line savings and ensure a positive business climate for the lodging industry. Partner state associations provide local representation and additional cost-saving benefits to members.

For more about AH&LA, visit www.ahla.com