#United States #Aliso Viejo #Sunstone Hotel Investors #Michael Barnello #Tarsadia Capital

Sunstone Hotel Investors Announces Board Expansion

On November 17, 2025, Sunstone Hotel Investors, Inc. (NYSE: SHO) proudly announced the appointment of Michael Barnello to its Board of Directors. Effective from November 15, 2025, Barnello's addition marks an important step in strengthening the board, which now consists of nine directors. This decision is seen as pivotal in continuing the company’s commitment to maximizing shareholder value.

Welcome Remarks by Leadership

Douglas M. Pasquale, Chairman of the Board, expressed enthusiasm welcoming Mike Barnello, remarking on his extensive background in the lodging industry as a crucial asset for Sunstone. “Mike's extensive lodging industry expertise provides additional depth and experience to our Board,” he stated. The Chairman's sentiments were echoed by Bryan A. Giglia, Sunstone’s Chief Executive Officer, who looks forward to the insights Barnello will bring.

Who is Michael Barnello?

Michael Barnello is a well-respected figure in the hospitality sector, known for his role as Founder and Managing Partner at Badlands Hotel Capital, a firm specializing in hospitality investment and asset management. His previous experience includes serving as President and Chief Executive Officer of LaSalle Hotel Properties (now merged into a different entity), where he played an integral role since its IPO in 1998. LaSalle was recognized for owning upscale properties across major markets in the U.S. Barnello's other notable positions include Senior Vice President at LaSalle Partners (which became Jones Lang LaSalle) and Vice President at Strategic Realty Advisors.

A graduate of Cornell University with a BS in Hotel Administration, Barnello’s expertise will be invaluable as Sunstone navigates the complexities of the hospitality market.

Future Prospects with Barnello on Board

Michael Ching of Tarsadia Capital, which has engaged constructively with Sunstone's Board, also expressed optimism regarding Barnello’s appointment, stating, “We appreciate the constructive engagement we have had with Sunstone's Board of Directors and management team. We are excited about Mr. Barnello's addition to the Board and are confident he will be additive to Sunstone's ongoing efforts towards realizing value for its shareholders.”

This new appointment underscores Sunstone Hotel Investors’ dedication to strategic growth and the enhancement of governance standards. By bringing in leaders with extensive industry expertise and recognizing the importance of stakeholder engagement, the company is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of success in the hotel and resort real estate investment sector.

About Sunstone Hotel Investors

Sunstone Hotel Investors, Inc. operates as a lodging real estate investment trust (REIT). With a strategic focus on creating long-term stakeholder value, Sunstone aims to acquire, actively manage, and efficiently dispose of well-placed hotel and resort real estate. For further details about their initiatives and properties, visit www.sunstonehotels.com.

About Tarsadia Capital

Founded in New York, Tarsadia Capital, LLC operates as an investment management entity. The firm emphasizes investing in a wide range of sectors, including equities and commodities. The Tarsadia Group has a successful track record of over 40 years in investing and managing hospitality assets, further solidifying its reputation in the industry.

As Sunstone Hotel Investors continues to develop its portfolio and governance framework, the inclusion of seasoned professionals like Barnello fortifies its mission to enhance shareholder value and address the ever-evolving demands of the hospitality market.