As President of Donohoe Hospitality, Thomas Penny leads one of the largest independent hotel management companies in the DC area, representing over $500 million in hotel asset value. Thomas’ leadership responsibilities include strategic planning, consulting on the development and acquisition of properties, long-term financial and capital planning,.and overall operational direction for a diverse portfolio of 15 extended-stay, full-service, lifestyle, and focused-service hotels affiliated with renowned brands such as Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, Choice Hotels, and InterContinental Hotels Group.

Thomas boasts a distinguished career as a hospitality professional, consistently achieving exceptional results in employee satisfaction, guest satisfaction, market share, and profitability. Since joining Donohoe in 1996, Thomas has enjoyed over 25 years with the company, actively contributing in both developmental and hands-on operational capacities. He has been deeply involved in various professional organizations and is a dedicated community advocate, showcasing his commitment to the growth and development of the hospitality sector.

Professional Affiliations

• American Hotel and Lodging Association, Board Member (2019 – present) and past Co-Chair of the Hotel Management Committee
• DC Hotel Association of Washington, D.C., Executive Committee (2008 – present) and past Board Chair/li>
• Livingstone College, Board of Trustees (2020 – present)
• Marriott-Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership at Howard University, Founding Board Member (2021 – present)
• The Residence Inn Association (TRIA), Board Member (2024 – present)
• Cambria Franchise Council, Board Member (2023 – present)
• National Academy Foundation (NAF), Board Member (2017 – present)
• DC Public Education Fund, Board Member (2013 – present)
• Greater Washington Community Foundation, Board Member (2024 – present)
• DC Mayor’s Workforce Investment Council, Executive Committee (2011 – present)
• Visit Baltimore, Executive Committee (2021 – present)
• FH Faunteroy Community Enrichment Center, Board Member (2016 – present)
• FH Interfaith Works, Honorary Board (2025 – present)

Awards

• 2016 Advisory Board Champion Award – National Academy Foundation
• 2016 Lamp of Knowledge Award (Inaugural) – American Hotel & Lodging Association
• 2016 E.B. Williams Excellence in Business Award – DC Morehouse College Alumni Association
• 2014 National Academy Foundation Partner Award (Inaugural) – Courtyard Marriott
• 2011 Charles Horsky Civic Leadership Award – Visitor’s Service Center
• 2010 Minority Business Leader Award – Washington Business Journal
• 2009 Top 40 Under 40 Award – The Network Journal
• 2009 Legacy Award for Mentoring – 100 Black Men of Greater Washington
• 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award – National Society of Minorities in Hospitality Howard University Chapter
• 2006 National Employer of the Year – Bridges Marriott Foundation
• 2000 Stars of the Industry Manager of the Year – Hotel Association of Washington, DC