Marriott CEO named 2026 Cornell Hospitality Icon
The Cornell Peter and Stephanie Nolan School of Hotel Administration is honored to announce that Anthony (Tony) Capuano ’87, president and chief executive officer of Marriott International, has been selected as the 2026 Cornell Hospitality Icon of the Industry. The award will be presented to Capuano at the 2026 Cornell Icon & Innovator Awards celebration.
One of the most influential leaders in global hospitality, Capuano embodies the spirit of service, innovation and servant leadership that defines the hospitality industry. Over a distinguished career spanning more than three decades at Marriott International, Capuano has helped guide the company through unprecedented growth and operational excellence, while deepening its longstanding commitment to the well-being of associates, guests and communities around the world.
“Tony’s vision of, passion for and lifelong dedication to our industry make him an ideal recipient of this year’s Cornell Hospitality Icon of the Industry Award,” said Kate Walsh, Dimond Family Dean of the Nolan School of Hotel Administration. “I have never met a more dedicated and inspiring leader, especially to our future generations. With his insight, care and deep passion for mentoring, Tony has and continues to shape the future of the global hospitality industry. What a legacy to honor!”
Capuano began his career with Marriott International in 1995, quickly distinguishing himself through roles spanning global development, operations and enterprise strategy. Prior to becoming CEO, he served as group president of global development, design and operations services, where he oversaw the expansion of Marriott’s global footprint and helped scale the company’s development pipeline to unprecedented levels. Under his tenure, Marriott navigated market challenges, strengthened franchise relationships and continued to deliver exceptional experiences across its diverse portfolio of brands.
Since assuming the role of president and CEO, Capuano has led Marriott International with a focus on innovation, culture and inclusivity. His commitment to elevating industry standards is reflected in initiatives prioritizing associate welfare, operational excellence and guest experience. He has also championed efforts to address critical social issues, including advancing human trafficking awareness training, supporting survivor assistance and raising awareness of substance use disorders across the hospitality community — work recognized with the 2026 Shatterproof Hospitality Hero Award.
A proud alum of the Nolan School, Capuano has remained actively engaged with his alma mater as a member of the Cornell Hotel Society and as part of the Dean’s Advisory Board. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to the hospitality industry and to the values instilled during his Cornell education.
“We’re excited to host another exceptional Icon & Innovator Awards celebration this year. The event’s continued success reflects the strength and global reach of the Nolan School,” said Andrew Karolyi, Charles Field Knight Dean of the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business. “Congratulations to Tony, and to our outstanding Nolan School leadership, faculty, staff, students and alumni. We couldn’t be prouder.”
The Cornell Hospitality Icon & Innovator Awards is the Nolan School of Hotel Administration’s largest annual gathering, uniting hundreds of influential leaders from the global hospitality and travel industries while raising funds to support scholarship.