Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1524031
20 B M & T ••• July/August 2024 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com Johnson established Salamander Hotels and Resorts in 2005. At the time Middleburg was in serious need of a stable economic base. There was little retail, no revenue generating economic base, and the town was struggling with a deteriorating water sewage treat- ment plant. "They were just really hanging on by their nails as far as staying alive and staying somewhat resilient," Johnson recalls, "and I felt as though that by building this resort that we really could put a lot of money into this town." Helping rebuild the town's economic infra- structure was a long process. In 2013 Sala-man- der Middleburg opened its doors as a luxury oasis in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. Over the next 10 years the company went on to open Hotel Bennett in Charleston, SC; Half Moon, in Montego Bay, Jamaica; Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor, FL; Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club in Rendezvous Bay, Anguilla; Aspen Meadows Resort in Aspen, CO; and Salamander DC in Washington, DC. "Every one of our resorts is different and they fit the environment of the location, whether you're in Charleston, whether you're in Aspen, wherever you go, you will feel Salamander there," Johnson states. "You will feel the warmth that we exude and trying to really help everyone feel comfort- able." Indeed, each hotel is its own unique work of art. Every aspect of the Salamander was designed by Johnson to showcase her love for excellence. As an artist and documentary film- maker in her own right, Johnson estab- lished the performing arts center at the Hill School in Middleburg. In 2012, with the encouragement of friend and filmmaker Robert Redford, the Middleburg Film Festival was born. The festival showcases films by men and women of color and female directors and is dedicated to using the medium to deepen understanding of the world and one another. Another of Johnson's signature events is The Family Reunion. One of the country's premier culinary affairs, it's hosted by Chef Kwame Onwuachi, the Salamander Collection and (i)Food & Wine(ei). Its mission is to nurture, develop, and celebrate racial and ethnic diversity within the next generation of hospitality professionals. The event, which includes family-style lunch, evening dining events, cooking demonstrations, recreation activities, and Afterglow Party events, benefits the Share Our Strength's No Kid Hungry Campaign. Under Johnson's leader- ship, Salamander's essence lies in prioritizing inclusive economic growth and ensuring prosperity for every community member. Aiming for a more equi- table capital region, Johnson co-chaired the Greater Washington Part- nership's Inclusive Growth Strategy Council initiative in 2022, converging 45 busi- ness magnates for a groundbreaking "Regional Blueprint for Inclusive Growth." Above all, Johnson wants Salamander guests "to feel like they're walking into my home. I want them to feel comfortable and included in almost everything that's happening there. I want them to be able to celebrate who we authenti- cally are." Tampa City Scape