Cultivating the Next Generation of Hospitality Leaders
Recently, Newport Hospitality Group had the privilege of hosting a dynamic group of leadership trainees at our Williamsburg corporate office as part of LEAP — the Leadership Excellence Advancement Program.
Over the course of three immersive days, participants dove deep into nine modules of AHLA’s Supervisory Skill Builders series, sharpening their expertise in communication, coaching, motivation, and team leadership.
The program culminated with certification exams—and a perfect finish. Every single participant passed with honors, earning their Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS) designation.
Lizz Chambers, Newport’s Vice President of People Services, shared,
“Watching these future leaders lean into the challenge, support one another, and rise to the occasion was nothing short of inspiring. They didn’t just complete a program—they stepped into their potential. The hospitality industry is in good hands.”
Lori Haas, who co-facilitated the sessions, added that the group’s energy and openness set a new benchmark for what leadership development at Newport looks like: practical, personal, and built on a culture of care.
Beyond the classroom, LEAP participants spent valuable time connecting with the full Newport leadership team over dinner—sharing stories, laughter, and a sense of camaraderie that reflects the heart of Living Hospitality.
Congratulations to:
Todara Belton, Hilton Garden Inn Columbia/Harbison, SC
Angel Snape, The Suites at Yale New Haven, CT
Patrick Wheeler, Holiday Inn Asheville East–Blue Ridge Parkway & Woodfire Bar and Grille, NC
Gianna Marcelli, Wingate Altoona & Tōst at Market Square, PA
Robert Baldwin, Comfort Inn & Suites Orlando North (Sanford), FL
Carla Thomas, Fairfield Inn & Suites Charlotte Matthews, NC
Nate Monahan, Microtel Inn & Suites Altoona, PA
A special shout-out to Robert Baldwin for attending and contributing to the sessions even after already earning his CHS—proof that true leaders never stop learning.
LEAP continues to be one of Newport’s most meaningful investments—growing confident leaders who embody the company’s mission of enriching lives through such high levels of service and value creation that together, we redefine the standards of excellence in hospitality.
About LEAP and Newport Hospitality Group
The Leadership Excellence Advancement Program (LEAP) is Newport Hospitality Group’s signature leadership development initiative designed to cultivate emerging talent across its hotel portfolio. By combining industry-recognized certification through the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) with Newport’s people-first culture, LEAP equips rising leaders with the tools, confidence, and perspective to excel in today’s hospitality landscape.
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