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Thomas J. Baltimore Jr. Recognized with the 2025 Horatio Alger Award

On January 28, 2025, the Horatio Alger Association announced its Member Class of 2025, celebrating the remarkable achievements of twelve individuals who have triumphantly navigated adversity to achieve personal and professional success. Among these honorees is Thomas J. Baltimore Jr., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Park Hotels & Resorts.

The Horatio Alger Association is renowned for honoring exceptional leaders who have made significant contributions to society while inspiring the next generation. Over the past 78 years, the prestigious Horatio Alger Award has been awarded to those who have not only surmounted considerable challenges but have also committed themselves to philanthropic efforts and higher education support.

Born in Front Royal, Virginia, to teenage parents who faced socio-economic challenges, Baltimore's journey exemplifies resilience and determination. His mother, only 17 years old, worked tirelessly, while his father devoted his energy to establishing a Baptist church, which often left the family in financial instability. Growing up as the eldest of five children, Baltimore utilized various jobs from an early age to contribute to his family's finances. From delivering newspapers to working in restaurants, he recognized education was his pathway out of poverty.

Baltimore pursued academic excellence, eventually becoming the first in his family to attend college. He achieved a bachelor’s degree from the University of Virginia’s McIntire School of Commerce and an MBA from the University of Virginia's Darden School of Business. After gaining experience in public accounting at Price Waterhouse, he transitioned into the hospitality sector, where he quickly rose through the ranks, securing senior leadership positions at major companies like Hilton and Marriott.

In 2000, he co-founded RLJ Development, steering the company to notable success with the acquisition of hotels valued at $630 million. His leadership saw RLJ Lodging Trust emerge from a merger with private equity funds, resulting in a portfolio of 125 hotels across 21 states.

Since 2016, Baltimore has led Park Hotels & Resorts, a real estate investment trust with $8 billion in assets and properties in prime U.S. markets. Beyond his corporate role, he actively participates on the boards of several notable organizations including American Express and Comcast Corporation, illustrating his commitment to education and community service.

Baltimore’s story is not just one of personal triumph but also a narrative focused on giving back. Together with his wife Hillary, he has initiated numerous scholarships aimed at empowering minority students. His contributions extend to significant donations to the University of Virginia, exceeding $2 million, along with support for various community organizations such as N Street Village, which aids homeless women.

Expressing his sentiments on being honored, Baltimore stated, “Although I grew up in a loving home, my family dealt with many economic hardships. That lack of financial stability forced me to rely on my education to lift me out of those circumstances.” He emphasized the importance of prayer, preparation, and perseverance, and conveyed his honor in joining the Horatio Alger Association, aiming to empower future scholars in their educational pursuits.

The induction ceremony for the Class of 2025 is scheduled for April 3-5, 2025, in Washington, D.C., an event that will not only recognize Baltimore and his peers but also offer a platform for future scholars to be inspired by their shared stories of resilience.

In its mission, the Horatio Alger Association continues to advocate for the ideals of hard work and determination, embodying the spirit of the American Dream. Since its inception in 1947, it has awarded scholarships to over 37,000 students, providing crucial support for those in need, and reaffirming their belief in the value of education.

For anyone eager to learn more about the Horatio Alger Association or the Class of 2025, additional information can be found on their official website and through their social media channels.