Business Details
Your Voice in Louisiana's Hotel Industry
Established in the mid-1920s, our organization serves as the recognized ambassador of Louisiana's hotel industry. We advocate for the hospitality sector at state and federal levels, driving legislative and regulatory progress that benefits hotels, tourism, and economic growth. Our government affairs team maintains strong relationships with elected officials and agency leaders, ensuring the industry's voice is heard in Baton Rouge and Washington, D.C. Through educational initiatives, we've developed hospitality programs at universities, community colleges, and high schools statewide to cultivate workforce talent.Our networking platforms connect industry professionals to share best practices and address operational challenges. As a trusted advocate, we've positioned Louisiana's hotel industry as one of the nation's least regulated while maintaining strong labor and employment guidance partnerships. Our leadership extends beyond membership services to shaping policies that impact tourism, economic development, and workforce training across Louisiana.
Services
Government Advocacy
Educational Programs
Membership Benefits
Networking Events
Industry Resources
Highlights and features
- Decades of legislative advocacy shaping Louisiana's hospitality policies
- Industry-leading educational programs from high school to graduate levels
- Established relationships with state and federal decision-makers
- Comprehensive workforce development initiatives across Louisiana
- Proven track record of reducing regulatory burdens on hotels
Services
Government Advocacy
Our dedicated advocacy team represents Louisiana's hotel industry at state and federal levels. We maintain relationships with elected officials and agency leaders to shape legislation and regulatory frameworks. This includes direct lobbying efforts during legislative sessions and ongoing administrative advocacy to protect industry interests.
Educational Programs
We develop hospitality education initiatives from high school through graduate levels. Our programs include curriculum development, industry certifications, and professional development workshops. Partnerships with universities and community colleges create career pathways for Louisiana residents in the hospitality sector.
Membership Benefits
Members receive exclusive access to legislative updates, regulatory guidance, and networking opportunities. We provide specialized resources including legal consultations, operational best practices, and workforce development tools tailored to Louisiana's hospitality businesses.
Networking Events
Our events connect hotel professionals across Louisiana to share industry insights and business strategies. These gatherings feature expert speakers, policy discussions, and opportunities to build relationships with peers and service providers within the hospitality sector.
Industry Resources
We offer comprehensive resources including labor law updates, regulatory compliance guidance, and market research specific to Louisiana's hospitality industry. Our members gain access to specialized training materials and industry-specific tools to enhance business operations.
People
Delton Smith
President
President of Smith Management Co. in Shreveport, LA, with extensive hospitality management experience leading Louisiana's hotel industry advocacy efforts.
Gary Jupiter
First Vice President
Courtyard by Marriott executive in Baton Rouge, LA, bringing decades of hotel operations expertise to leadership roles within the association.
Ben Roberts
Second Vice President
Homewood Suites manager in New Orleans, LA, with proven leadership in hospitality operations and industry representation.
Amy Hudson
Secretary/Treasurer
Hampton Inn executive in Hammond, LA, managing financial operations while advancing membership services for Louisiana hotel professionals.
Bret Chittenden
Chairman of the Board
Expotel Hospitality leader in Metairie, LA, providing strategic direction for the association's statewide initiatives and industry partnerships.
Questions
What does the Louisiana Hotel & Lodging Association do?
We advocate for Louisiana's hospitality industry through government relations, educational programs, and workforce development initiatives.
How does the association support hotel professionals?
We provide legislative advocacy, networking opportunities, and educational resources to help members navigate industry challenges.
What educational programs do you offer?
We've developed hospitality curricula at universities, community colleges, and high schools statewide to cultivate industry talent.
How can I get involved with the association?
Membership provides access to networking events, advocacy resources, and industry-specific educational programs.
What areas of Louisiana do you serve?
Our advocacy and educational programs cover all regions of Louisiana, supporting hotels statewide.
How does the association influence policy?
Our experienced lobbyists work with state and federal officials to shape legislation benefiting Louisiana's hospitality industry.
