Carman Zapata, Chair 
Hyatt - Provo

Carmen has lived in Utah County for most of her life, leaving for school to attend Utah State University in Logan and returning to UVSC in Orem.  She is originally from Managua, Nicaragua, and has lived in Utah for 31 years...   Wouldn't trade it for anything in the world, though she travels back to her home country every year.  She has also visited 31 states in the country.  Some of her favorites are the Carolinas, and Virginias.  Carmen has been in the hospitality industry for over 18 years, and is now the Director of Sales for Home2Suites by Hilton in Lehi.  The Home2Suites by Hilton is one of the newest Hilton brands, catering to the extended stay clients; but also offering many wonderful amenities also appreciated by short term travel guests.  This was the 5th hotel property she has helped open, and couldn't be more excited to be in the "Silicon Valley" of Utah.

The Home2Suites by Hilton Lehi was recognized as New Business of the Year 2014 by the Point of the Mountain Chamber.  Carmen is now serving as Vice Chair on the Ambassador Committee, and is now on the Board of Directors for the Chamber.  She is an active volunteer for the American Red Cross, and is one of the Ambassadors for the upcoming Heroes Recognition event 2016.  One of my most memorable moments was while working as the Assistant General Manager at the Hilton Garden Inn SLC.  The Hilton Garden Inn won the coveted Connie Award three years in a row, out of over 500 Hilton Garden Inns worldwide.   "There is nothing I'd rather do than to work in this industry!  Pearson Hospitality Group values it's people, and we in turn transfer this appreciation to our clients/guests", says Carmen.  We are proud to be a part of Lehi's story, and look forward to many successful and productive years to come.