The Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association (IHLA) is a not-for-profit, 501(c)(6) trade association that represents and advocates for the lodging industry in Illinois. IHLA members consist of over 500 hotels and their employees throughout the state as well as related industry partners and suppliers.

- Responsible for member relations, particularly among U.S. Travel's board of directors and executive committee. - Lead new-member outreach with a specific focus on premier membership sales. - Frequently give speeches to member organizations to provide updates on U.S. Travel's priorities and legislative work in Washington. - Oversee our political engagement activities including our grassroots advocacy, state-based campaigns and PAC fundraising.

- Led industry engagement related to Open Skies. Assisted the organization's membership with understanding the issue, formulating official statements from our member companies, and assisting them with submitting their comments to the federal docket. - Oversee U.S. Travel's site visit program, known as Travel Talks which connects up to 50 Members of Congress each year with their local travel leaders. - Successfully spearheaded grassroots outreach that contributed to Brand USA being reauthorized in December 2014.

- Coordinate U.S. Travel's Power of Travel Coalition, a grassroots network of travel employees who advocate to champion, protect, and improve the industry. - Manage U.S. Travel Association's Travel PAC, which includes fundraising, marketing, and assisting in the execution of the contribution strategy.

Provided consul to nonprofit organizations on successful and innovative fundraising methods. Campaign Manager for successful $45 million capital and endowment campaign. Led client to raise over 120% of their fundraising goal.

Assisted in the creation of special accommodations for students with disabilities to ensure successful educational opportunities. Helped students navigate the resources available to them both on and off campus to promote equality and ensure a high quality of life while at Seton Hall University.

Conducted research related to major corporate and healthcare clients. Attended and summarized Congressional hearings on healthcare reform, internet security, and labor issues. Drafted correspondence and comments for distribution to Congressional offices and regulatory agencies.Focus areas: Internet Security, Healthcare, Labor Relations, Travel and Tourism

Developed and implemented year-long grassroots advocacy agenda for 500 college chapters across the U.S. Analyzed Congressional activity relevant to healthcare for youth and provided monthly updates to chapters. Initiated and executed nationwide advocacy movement to lobby Congress for the passage of H.R. 2851[110th]/ “Michelle’s Law” to protect students’ health coverage during medical leave from school. Developed a comprehensive advocacy training manual for distribution to thousands of students nationwide.