Anthony Capuano, president and CEO of Marriott International, was honored with the 2026 Shatterproof Hospitality Hero Award during the Ninth Annual Shatterproof Hospitality Heroes reception.
The event was held in conjunction with ALIS at the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE. Capuano was recognized for his leadership, compassion and long-standing commitment to advancing awareness around substance use disorder, reducing stigma and supporting the well-being of hospitality employees and communities worldwide.
Under his leadership, 75 hospitality companies united to raise a record-breaking $2.1 million for Shatterproof—an all-time high for the event—supporting the organization’s mission to transform systems of care, support families and end stigma.
“I humbly accept this honor on behalf of everyone at Marriott who is committed to showing up with empathy, dignity and care for our people and for our industry,” Capuano said in a statement. “Addiction touches every one of us—as family members, leaders, friends and employers. In the hospitality industry, the need is especially urgent. Shatterproof is charting a new, better, more compassionate path forward. My deep gratitude goes to Gary Mendell, the entire Shatterproof team, and the donors who stand with this extraordinary organization.”
Shatterproof—a national non-profit organization transforming how the healthcare system addresses substance use disorder (SUD)—was founded in 2012 by Gary Mendell, co-founder of HEI Hotels & Resorts. Mendell lost his son Brian to addiction in 2011 and now serves as the organization’s Chairperson Emeritus.
The following morning, industry leaders and Shatterproof executives convened for a panel discussion titled The Business of Well-Being: Protecting People, Purpose, and Profit in Hospitality. The session explored the industry’s role in addressing substance use disorder, strengthening workplace support systems and expanding access to education and resources.
Moderated by Jeff Higley, president of The BHN Group, a division of Northstar Travel Group, the panel featured Gary Mendell; Pam Jenkins, CEO of Shatterproof; Leeny Oberg, CFO and EVP, development at Marriott International; and Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.