Established in 2006, this award recognizes a managed property, a business unit, corporate department, or individual that demonstrates excellence in promoting access to opportunity and welcoming all. From our associates, to our shareholders, customers, suppliers, and communities in which we operate, we thrive on the variety of perspectives that give our company its strength and competitive advantage.
J. Willard Marriott, Jr. Diversity Excellence Award
J.W. Marriott, Jr. Diversity Excellence Award
Delta Hotels Fredericton
This year, the winner of the J. Willard Marriott, Jr. Diversity Excellence Award is Delta Hotels Fredericton. The hotel’s commitment to excellence reinforces their reputation as a place that provides access to opportunity and welcomes all, empowers associates to deliver outstanding experiences, and significantly contributes to guest satisfaction.
Delta Fredericton has made significant strides and takes great pride in its relationships with the local indigenous communities in the Fredericton area and beyond. The hotel assists local institutions that serve indigenous citizens in need and hosts a wide variety of conferences, events and meetings. The hotel also displays a Wampum Belt in the lobby, practices land acknowledgements, and educates associates on indigenous cultures and language, keeping a spirit of respect and reconciliation at the forefront.
As part of the hotel’s commitment to creating a sense of belonging, associates are encouraged to join groups that promote Marriott’s core values, such as the Culture & Inclusion Council, Health & Safety Team, Next Gen Business Council, and the Climate Crew. Associates also created a Friends in Need program to support colleagues, reflecting the hotel's people-first philosophy.
The hotel is part of the Government-sponsored 50/30 Challenge, which aims to increase the representation of a variety of groups within workplaces. For three years in a row, the hotel has been named a Rainbow Certified Hotel by the Canadian Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, supporting programs for the 2+LGBTQ community.
The hotel’s leadership team is actively involved – for example, General Manager Sara Holyoke hosts the LeadHERship podcast, celebrating women at all levels. The podcast shares inspirational journeys, offers tips for women in leadership, and encourages mutual support among women.
Collaborations with the Chamber of Commerce, Inclusion New Brunswick, and the Multicultural Association enable the hotel to source a variety of suppliers, such as local farmers that provide fresh food for a farm-to-table culinary experience. The hotel also supports businesses such as Wolastoq Adventures, a 100% Indigenous-owned local business that rents kayaks and paddle boards for use at the beach.
