“Tony’s leadership reflects the best of the hospitality industry—compassion, inclusion and a commitment to improving lives,” said Pam Jenkins, Shatterproof’s CEO. “His advocacy helps create a culture where employees and families affected by addiction feel supported and understood. We are honored to recognize him as a true Hospitality Hero.”
Capuano said he is honored to receive the award.
“More than the recognition, I am grateful for the opportunity to stand alongside so many leaders in our industry to support the work Shatterproof is doing,” he said. “Addiction affects every community, family and workplace. In fact, 17 percent of employees in the hotel and food services industry struggle with substance use disorder and 15 percent face serious alcohol-related problems. At Marriott, we believe in showing up for our people and guests with empathy, dignity and care. That’s why we are proud to partner with Shatterproof to help end the stigma of addiction and expand access to resources that save lives. This award reflects our collective commitment to making a difference.”
The Hospitality Heroes Reception was created by Gary Mendell, a former hotelier who co-founded and chaired HEI Hotels & Resorts before launching Shatterproof in memory of his son, Brian, who died of addiction in 2011. Mendell founded Shatterproof to drive change in addiction prevention, treatment and recovery.
Now in its ninth year, the event has raised more than $5 million and involved more than 100 hotel companies and 500 industry leaders.
The 2026 Hospitality Heroes Committee includes Mike Barnello, Badlands Hotel Capital; Jeff Higley, Burba Hotel Network; Paul Whetsell, CapStar Hotel Company; Ted Darnall, Clark Hanrattie, Anthony Rutledge and Greg Mendell, HEI Hotels & Resorts; Chris Nassetta, Hilton Worldwide Holdings; Dan Lesser, LW Hospitality Advisors; Bill Reynolds, Marcus Hotels; and Joel Eisemann, Noble Investment Group.
Others included are Mark Woodworth, RM Woodworth Hospitality Advisors; Robert Alter, Seaview Investors; Stacy Silver, Silver Hospitality Group; Pam Jenkins and Gary Mendell, Shatterproof; Thomas Corcoran, TCOR Hotel Partners; Patrick Campbell, Tim Hodes and Merrick Kleeman, Wheelock Street Capital and Geoff Ballotti, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts.
STR President Amanda Hite was named a 2025 Shatterproof Hospitality Heroes honoree for her work raising awareness of substance abuse.
