Peer Perspective: Women Who Shape What Hospitality Feels Like

With contributions from Sarah Riggs, Cassandra Mullins, Jessica Smith, Cherelle Young, Amanda Lowe, Portsia Smith, Maggie Leonard, Paulette Moore, and Crystal Reed.

Hospitality has always been about people. But behind every strong team, every memorable stay, and every well-run hotel, there is leadership shaping what that experience feels like.

This March, in honor of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, we pause to recognize the women leading Newport’s hotels — not just for the roles they hold, but for the way they lead, the paths they’ve taken, and the impact they’re making every day.

There is no single path to becoming a General Manager. Some journeys are shaped by mentors who saw potential early. Others by moments of uncertainty that required stepping forward anyway. For many, it was both.

One leader recalls a mentor who believed in her before she believed in herself, encouraging her to take the next step even when she wasn’t sure she was ready. Another points to a leader who took the time to coach, recognize, and support their team — a lesson that now defines how she leads today. Others describe careers shaped not by one moment, but by many: unexpected challenges, high-pressure situations, and the kind of real-time decision-making that hospitality demands.

Across every story, one theme remains consistent: leadership is built through experience, but sustained through people.

That belief shows up clearly in how these women define their roles today.

To lead a hotel is to create an environment where people feel seen, supported, and capable of doing their best work. It is about communication, consistency, and trust. It is about setting expectations while also being present enough to listen. It is about knowing when to step in, when to step back, and when to simply stand beside your team.

For many, the responsibility of leadership carries an even deeper meaning.

There is pride in representation. Pride in growth. Pride in showing others what is possible.

One General Manager shared what it means to lead as an African American woman in an industry where representation has not always been equal — and the responsibility that comes with that visibility. Another spoke about leading not just for her team, but for her daughter, setting an example of what is possible through hard work, confidence, and belief in oneself.

Others emphasized the importance of authenticity. That leadership does not require changing who you are to fit a mold. That strength and empathy are not opposites — they are essential partners. That women bring perspective, adaptability, and emotional intelligence that elevate both team culture and guest experience.

Across every voice, there is a shared commitment: to open doors wider than they were found.

And while their journeys may differ, the values they lead with are remarkably aligned.

Some speak to integrity — doing the right thing even when no one is watching. Others emphasize accountability and consistency, creating structure and trust within their teams. Many highlight the importance of recognition, of making sure people feel valued for the work they do. Others focus on listening — not to respond, but to understand.

Servant leadership emerges as a defining thread. The belief that leadership is not about title or authority, but about showing up daily in a way that supports, strengthens, and empowers others.

And perhaps most importantly, there is a clear understanding that culture is not created in big moments alone. It is built in the small ones.

A quick call to help a guest.

A moment of recognition for a team member.

A leader stepping in during a busy shift.

A conversation that builds confidence.

These are the moments that shape teams. And in turn, shape guest experiences.

Because when a team feels supported, it shows. In how they care for each other. In how they care for the hotel. And ultimately, in how they care for every guest who walks through the door.

That is the ripple effect of strong leadership.

As we recognize Women’s History Month, this is what stands out most: not just the titles, the timelines, or the milestones — but the way these women lead.

With confidence, but also humility.

With strength, but also empathy.

With high standards, but also genuine care.

They are building teams that trust each other, environments where people grow, and experiences that guests remember.

And in doing so, they are shaping not only the future of Newport, but the future of hospitality itself.