About Us
The Jefferson City Lodging Association (JCLA) is a coalition of hotel and motel owners, operators, and hospitality professionals dedicated to promoting excellence, collaboration, and sustainable growth in Jefferson City’s lodging industry. We work together to enhance the visitor experience, strengthen tourism partnerships, and ensure that Jefferson City remains a top destination for business, leisure, and government travel.
Our Team
The Jefferson City Lodging Association is led by a coalition of hospitality and business professionals dedicated to protecting the long-term economic health of our community. Our leadership team brings together decades of experience in hotel management, local development, and civic engagement. The team is united by a shared commitment to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and sustainable growth for Jefferson City. Working collaboratively, we advocate for policies that strengthen tourism while ensuring that public investments deliver real, measurable value to residents and businesses alike.
Raman Puri, MD
President
President & CEO at the Puri Group of Enterprises
DoubleTree by Hilton
Holiday Inn
Mark Randolph
Vice President
President of PMI Hotels
Courtyard by Marriott
Fairfiled Inn
Nina Bishop
Secretary
General Manager at Candlewood Suites
Candlewood Suites by IHG
Paula Puri
Treasurer
Human Resources & Accounting Leader at the Puri Group of Enterprises
DoubleTree by Hilton
Holiday Inn
Jay Patel
Board Member
General Manager at Baymont by Wyndham
Baymont by Wyndham
Shailesh Patel
Board Member
General Manager at Best Western Plus
Best Western Plus
Our Mission and Purpose
Our Mission
To unite and empower the lodging community through collaboration, advocacy, and education — enhancing Jefferson City’s tourism appeal, economic impact, and hospitality excellence.
Our Purpose
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Represent and advocate for Jefferson City’s hotels and motels in city, county, and state matters.
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Promote tourism growth through coordinated marketing and partnerships.
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Foster professional development, networking, and shared learning opportunities.
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Strengthen collaboration between hospitality leaders, government agencies, and community organizations.
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Advance ethical, sustainable, and guest-focused hospitality practices.
Our Goals
Advocacy
Serve as the unified voice of Jefferson City’s lodging sector — supporting fair regulations, tourism funding, and pro-business policies.
Tourism Growth
Partner with the Jefferson City Convention & Visitors Bureau and local organizations to attract travelers, increase occupancy, and boost local spending.
Professional Development
Host training sessions, workshops, and leadership events to enhance workforce excellence and operational performance.
Community Partnership
Engage with community events and philanthropic initiatives that highlight the hospitality spirit of Jefferson City.
Sustainability & Innovation
Encourage green initiatives, operational efficiency, and technology adoption to ensure long-term growth and responsible stewardship.
A Legacy of Hospitality
What Sets Us Apart
Founded by local hotel and motel owners, the JCLA has continually advocated for the interests of Jefferson City’s lodging community since its inception. Our primary goal is to serve as the unified voice of Jefferson City’s lodging sector. We support fair regulations, promote tourism funding, and advocate for pro-business policies that benefit our members. Additionally, we aim to collaborate with the Jefferson City Convention & Visitors Bureau to draw in more travelers, increase occupancy rates, and stimulate local spending. We prioritize professional development through workshops, community partnerships, and sustainable practices, ensuring a thriving future for Jefferson City's hospitality industry.