Leadership isn’t something you find in a textbook—it’s forged through shared experiences, honest conversations, and the quiet understanding that we are all in this together. At Newport Hospitality Group, we believe deeply in this truth. And nowhere was that more evident than at our recent Leadership Retreat in Wintergreen, Virginia.
Each year, we gather leaders from across our portfolio to connect beyond the day-to-day—to step back, realign, and re-energize. This retreat wasn’t about directives or dashboards. It was about people. It was about purpose. And this year, more than ever, it was about lighting the path forward.
Over four days, we exchanged more than ideas—we shared stories. We leaned into what it means to lead not only with strategy but with a soul. And we celebrated the core of our company: the relationships that drive our performance.
From Connection Comes Clarity
Some of the most powerful moments came not from keynotes or sessions, but from spontaneous connections. A late-night fireside chat. A breakfast table brainstorm. A chorus of laughter during a team-building activity that reminded us to take our work seriously—but not ourselves.
These moments build trust. And trust fuels momentum.
Leadership with Legacy
We were honored to hear from Bill DeForrest, a respected voice in hospitality leadership. His message was simple, yet powerful: lead from the heart. In an industry built on service, this was more than advice—it was a call to action.
We also honored the legacy of our co-founder, William “GEO” Carey, whose influence continues to guide our values. Our team was presented with NHG challenge coins—each one inscribed with the 3 P’s that define our operating principles: Permission, Power, and Protection. These are not just words; they are a promise to our people that leadership is a shared responsibility.
Investing in Tools—and in People
The retreat also served as a hands-on learning environment. Corporate team members led practical sessions on the tools our hotels use daily: Kalibri, Quore, M3, Lighthouse, and more. These platforms empower our General Managers and Directors of Sales to lead with data, make informed decisions, and stay agile in a dynamic market.
But perhaps more importantly, these sessions reinforced a key truth: when you invest in people and give them the right tools, they thrive.
Partnership as a Value
We were joined by generous partners and sponsors who didn’t just attend—they engaged. Their insights into purchasing, revenue, and facility maintenance brought real-time value to our teams. When we say “partnership,” we mean it. These aren’t vendors. They’re part of the NHG family.
Looking Ahead
What I took away from Wintergreen was this: the future of hospitality will always be about connection. Yes, we need to adapt to change. Yes, we must embrace technology and strategy. But in the end, it’s about people. The way we lead them. The way we support them. The way we grow together.
As we look to the year ahead, our theme is simple:
Together, We Ignite.
We ignite opportunity. We ignite innovation. We ignite the spirit of service that defines this industry and inspires our teams every day.
And if you ask me, there’s no better path to walk than one lit by shared purpose.
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