Evan A. Studer| Chief Executive Officer
Evan Studer was appointed as CEO in Q2, 2019. As CEO, Mr. Studer works directly with and guides the Operations and /Sales Leadership who support the day-to-day success of Vista Host. He also works directly with the Chief Financial Officer and Development Team strategically pursuing new management contracts and development opportunities.
Mr. Studer works closely with ownership representatives for hotels currently or proposed to be managed by Vista Host. Evan offers an extensive and successful Executive Level experience in the hotel/hospitality industry including a prior tenure with Vista Host Management & Development.
Prior to rejoining Vista Host in 2019, Mr. Studer held the Executive Vice President of Operations position with management companies such as Crescent Hotels & Resorts, Remington Hotels and 15 years with Sunstone Hotels during their significant growth years. His time at Sunstone included 6 years as direct COO responsibilities over the management company and also assisted operationally a successful IPO rollout. Aside from the hotel industry, Evan was an Executive VP Operations & Revenue at Invitation Homes, the largest owner/operator of single-family residential leased homes spanning over multiple U.S. markets. In the early part of his career Evan gained extensive experience with Winegardner & Hammons and a successful 15 year tenure with Vista Host Hotels in Operations and Regional Director of Sales & Marketing.
Mr. Studer has extensive experience in day-to-day operations, guiding numerous hotel openings and also served on numerous industry committees including Marriott’s Rooms Advisory Board, Sheraton Advisory Council and VP of Tourism for Pensacola, FL to name a few. Mr. Studer holds a BS Degree in Mathematics and Business Administration from Eastern Kentucky University.
Kathie A. Long | Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Kathie Long is responsible for the coordination of all accounting, budgeting, financial and administrative functions for the company. In addition, she is responsible for negotiating management contracts, refinancing, acquisition and sales of hotels. Her experience before joining Vista Host in 1989, included nine years in public accounting as a Certified Public Accountant, Tax Manager and three years in the hospitality industry as Controller/Treasurer for a publicly held company. She is a graduate of Memphis State University with a B.B.A. in Accounting.
Michael K. Gulotty | Senior Vice President of Operations
As Senior Vice President of Operations for Vista Host, Michael leverages his energy and 30 years of hospitality experience to facilitate collaborative leadership in all disciplines. Fostering an entrepreneurial culture, that promotes visionary and logical discussion, that leverages the talent, knowledge, and expertise of each team member, is a constant for the Vista Host team since Michael joined Vista Host in 2005. His goal is to continuously have a positive impact on each property’s capacity to generate both top line and profit for ownership. Michael believes strongly in the systems Vista Host provides it associates and ownership, from its industry leading Property Service Coach program to the financial models guiding Vista Host’s daily processes. Investing his time and thought process on many of the industry tools Vista Host uses, Michael has been an instrumental member of the team as it proves out its mission to be better TODAY than we were yesterday.
Community partnership and team integration has always been a strategic priority of his. As General Manager his Vista Host hotel in Albany, NY developed and sustained the only “Women’s Only floor” of any Franchise Hotel in the US, a philanthropic partnership with the ACS Making Strides Against Breast Cancer initiative. Engagement is community and regional development activity have included Board Chairperson Albany County Convention and Visitors Bureau (2010-2012, and 2017 to 2018, and Post Chair currently), President of the International Center of the Capital Region (2008-2017, affiliate member GlobalTiesUS and WACA), Board Member and Treasurer of the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (2010 thru 2016). Building strategic partnerships between public, private, government, and educational entities with the hospitality community is an imperative mission. Michael is committed at all times to engaging his teams, and allowing each person to develop with a yolk of outstanding hospitality and civic duty as their cultural beacon.
Michael Marasco | Vice President of Sales and Marketing
As Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Michael Marasco supports all Vista Host hotels in their sales efforts, and oversees a team of Regional Sales Managers. Michael has been in the Hospitality Business for over 20 years. His career began at a restaurant run by his family members and was where he developed his dedication to enhance the lives of everyone he encounters, empowers, and humbly serves. He has held positions at the highest levels within the restaurant and hotel business, achieving great success and recognition from Hilton, Marriott, and the ownership companies that he has worked with throughout his career. With a focus on driving long term sales performance and strengthening the results of the teams he has worked with, he has built his reputation on leading each market that he has worked in. He immediately leads the on-site sales team by designing action steps focused on maximizing revenues, establishing corporate accounts, strategizing and implementing correct marketing tactics, putting steps in place for maximum optimization of all echannels, and supports the teams in revenue management. His varied experience within the industry provides him with a unique view of the business, as he has held sales, operations, revenue management and general manager positions. His focus on results and dedication to the teams he works with has proven to be a winning formula that builds success for our owners and associates.
Bob Northup | Vice President of Project Management
As Vice President of Project Management, Bob Northup supports new hotel openings and the renovation of existing hotels, along with special projects. Mr. Northup joined Vista Host in 1992 as a General Manager of the Hampton Inn in Minnetonka, MN. Over the past 32 years Bob’s impact on our development along with our company wide initiatives has helped us achieve the success we experience today. His passion is to provide our hotels with support and direction while upholding the brand standards along with implementing the Vista Host Cornerstones and Points of Difference. Bob is based in Nashville, TN and travels to all hotels in our portfolio.
Cindy Matulich | Vice President of Accounting and Administration
Cindy Matulich is responsible for the day-to day operations of the Support Office as well as the management of property and employee insurance programs and internal and external audits, She also manages the accounting and administration of properties in development as well as acquisitions and dispositions. When Matulich joined Vista Host in 2008, she brought 30 years of hospitality and financial management experience with luxury hotels, resorts and private clubs, exclusive residential communities and conference centers. Her experience ranges from property accounting to new project development including technology infrastructure design and implementation. She is a member of the Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals and is a graduate of Texas Tech University with a BBA in Management and an MBA.
Wendy Conway | Vice President of Revenue Management
With an impressive tenure of 16 years within our organization, Wendy’s journey exemplifies dedication, expertise, and a passion for hospitality excellence. Having held pivotal roles including Regional Director of Revenue Management for a decade, where she meticulously optimized revenue strategies across our properties, Wendy’s leadership was instrumental in driving sustained growth and profitability. Prior to her current position, she served as a highly successful Hotel General Manager for six years, where she fostered exceptional guest experiences and operational excellence.
Now, as VP of Revenue Management, Wendy brings a wealth of knowledge and strategic insight to her role, ensuring that Vista Host continues to thrive in the ever-evolving hospitality landscape. Her unwavering commitment to maximizing revenue opportunities and her deep-rooted understanding of our industry make her an invaluable asset to our team.
Sarah Edge | Vice President of Revenue Channels and Digital Marketing
Sarah Edge serves as the Vice President of Revenue Channels and Digital Marketing at Vista Host, playing a crucial role in the digital marketing success of all hotels within the portfolio. Since joining Vista Host in 2011, Sarah has distinguished herself as a dedicated and skilled leader in the hospitality industry. She has successfully expanded the digital marketing team from one to four members, all promoted from within, reflecting her strong commitment to growing and developing the future leaders of Vista Host.
In her role as Vice President, Sarah is responsible for spearheading efforts to identify optimal digital marketing channels, foster relationships with brand and OTA partners, and seek unique opportunities to market the portfolio. She oversees the execution of corporate and property marketing strategic goals, including content management, direct marketing, reputation management, and media planning. Collaborating closely with Revenue Management and Sales, Sarah enhances marketing efforts, builds visibility, and drives revenue through strategic packages and promotions. Additionally, she leads public relations efforts, ensuring that the Vista Host brand maintains a strong market presence. Sarah’s strategic vision and dedication have been instrumental in driving growth and upholding the high standards of service that define Vista Host, continually elevating the reputation and success of our hotels.
Robert McKinnon | Director of Operations: Support Specialist
With over 14 years of dedicated service to our company, Robert’s journey epitomizes our commitment to nurturing talent and fostering growth from within. Having successfully completed our Management in Training (MIT) program, Robert has excelled in various roles within Vista Host. From managing multiple hotels to providing regional support and optimizing revenues, his expertise spans the breadth of our operations. Beyond his operational achievements, Robert’s true passion lies in developing the next generation of hospitality leaders.
Countless General Managers, Assistant General Managers, and Guest Service Managers have benefitted from Robert’s mentorship and guidance, a testament to his unparalleled commitment to their development. His leadership is characterized by a steadfast dedication to excellence and a genuine investment in the success of others.
Robert is a proud graduate of Penn State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Restaurant, Hotel, and Institutional Management. His academic background, combined with his extensive experience and unwavering commitment to talent development, makes him an invaluable asset to our team.
Danielle Spagnolo-Kurtz | Director of Talent Development
With a wealth of experience spanning multiple renowned hospitality organizations, Danielle brings a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the industry to her role. Previously serving as Director of Sales at our Home2 Suites West Palm Beach for three years, Danielle demonstrated exceptional leadership and a keen eye for fostering strong guest relationships. Prior to her time with Vista Host, Danielle held various roles within esteemed companies such as Chesapeake Hospitality and Winegardner & Hammons Hotel Group, where she honed her skills in guest service, team management, and operational excellence.
As Director of Talent Development, Danielle is committed to nurturing and empowering our team members, ensuring that each individual has the tools and support needed to excel in their roles. Her passion for cultivating talent and her unwavering dedication to promoting a culture of growth and development make her an incredible asset to our organization.
Madison (Madie) Setzer | National Director of Sales & Marketing
With a rich background in hospitality and a proven track record of driving revenue and cultivating strategic partnerships, Madie is a pivotal leader within our organization. Having provided regional support for our hotels over the course of three years, Madie brings a wealth of experience and insight to her role. Her previous accomplishments include spearheading initiatives for our Bama Parents Club, elevating our Tuscaloosa hotels to become Daimler’s #1 hotel partner, and nurturing a strong relationship with Crimson Tide Marketing.
Prior to joining Vista Host, Madie honed her skills and expertise while working with Hospitality America. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Administration from the esteemed University of Alabama, solidifying her commitment to excellence in the hospitality industry. As National Director of Sales, Madie is dedicated to driving growth, maximizing revenue opportunities, and cultivating strategic partnerships that propel Vista Host to new heights of success.
Michaela Googe | Sr. eCommerce Manager
With over six years of invaluable experience within our organization, Michaela’s journey began as a breakfast host while attending Florida State University. Since then, she has demonstrated unwavering dedication and exceptional leadership, progressing through various roles, including her previous position as Director of Sales for our Homewood Suites by Hilton Tuscaloosa Downtown.
