M. Andy Chaves has been with Marriott International, Inc. for 30 years. A graduate of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, he has more than 35 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Chaves has worked in lodging operations at more than ten hotel and conference resort properties and has spent the last 20 years in human resources, both in the North American ging division and at Marriott International corporate headquarters. Chaves directs Marriott’s workforce programs and global diversity and inclusion initiatives, including language development programs, diversity recruitment, career development, and retention initiatives. He served on the White House Task Force on New Americans, U.S. Department of Homeland Security. to As the head of youth programs at Marriott, Chaves promotes and supports public/private partnerships through career and technical education programs. He serves as the chair of the national advisory board and the executive committee of DECA while also serving on DECA’s board of directors. He is also president of the Montgomery County Public Schools Students Foundation for Hospitality and Restaurant Management. Chaves acts as a liaison to the National Urban League, UnidosUS, Prospanica, and various CTE programs and councils.