Board of Directors: Vice Chairman

Miraj S. Patel, MBA, CHO, CHIA, serves as the Vice Chairman of AAHOA, the world's largest hotel owners association. He served as a committee member for several years and joined AAHOA’s board of directors in 2019 after being elected as the Young Professional Director Western Division.

Miraj is a second-generation hotelier who began his career in hospitality from a young age growing up in his family’s first 30-room independent property. Today, Miraj is President of Wayside Investment Group, a Texas-based company that specializes in making opportunistic investments in the lodging and hospitality real estate sector. He has spoken at several prestigious and high-profile business, educational, social, and legislative conferences; while being recognized in various trade magazines.

Over the years, Miraj has exemplified a strong track record of leadership in the industry. Aside from his devotion to the hospitality industry, he is a firm believer in giving back to the community. He serves on various industry associations and charitable organizations, and continues to seek opportunities to make a positive difference.

Miraj earned his Master's in Business Administration, and his Bachelor of Science degree in Hotel and Lodging Management from Johnson and Wales University in Miami, Florida.