Texas businessman and hotelier, Suresh Patel, has earned the title of P&G Professional’s “2014 Family Hotelier of the Year,” presented in conjunction with the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA), the company has announced. Patel was recognized during the 2014 AAHOA Annual Convention and Trade Show awards presentation at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia.

The Family Hotelier of the Year Award recognizes AAHOA members who contribute to their communities and have the highest levels of skill, determination and sacrifice necessary to successfully run family hotel businesses, the company said.

“The dedication displayed by these individuals to their families, employees and communities shows an extraordinary level of commitment to excellence,” said Alan Tomblin, North American sales manager, P&G Professional. “We want to congratulate Mr. Patel and all of the finalists and entrants on their accomplishments and enthusiasm to go above and beyond.”

A resident of Dallas, Patel is the owner of nearly 50 properties in Texas, Tennessee and New York. In addition to have served on the board of directors for several organizations within his community, including, Leuva Patidar Samaj of USA (LPS), Gujarati Cultural Society (GCS) and the AAHOA Texas Region, Patel has been instrumental in helping his large family live out their dreams by either employing or partnering with immediate and extended family members at more than half of his properties.

“It is truly an honor to receive this prestigious AAHOA Family Hotelier of the Year award,” says Patel. “As I reflect back on the past 30 years of my career and think of all my accomplishments, the one thing that comes to mind is gratitude and appreciation for all the family, friends and business associates who have always given me their continued support throughout the years. It has been a great journey so far and I am truly blessed to be a part of such a great community.”

All 2014 finalists are AAHOA members in good standing who were nominated by themselves, family, colleagues or members of their community. Five finalists were chosen by a team of P&G Professional executives and the grand-prize winner was determined through online voting.

The five finalists included (in alphabetical order):
    •    Devendra Patel – South Holland, Illinois
    •    Dipak (Danny) Patel – Houston, Texas
    •    Hemant Patel – Miami, Florida
    •    Raman (Raju Patil) Patel – Dallas, Texas
    •    Suresh Patel – Irving, Texas

The grand prize included $10,000 – $5,000 toward a four-day, three-night trip for up to four family members to attend the 2014 AAHOA Annual Convention and Trade Show, an additional $5,000 in prize money and a commemorative plaque.