Alexa Becomes Rosen Hotels & Resorts’ Newest Meeting Planning Tool

Rosen Hotels & Resorts harnesses the power of the Amazon Echo Devices to aid meeting planners

For more information, contact:
Robert Hubler
407-639-4212, rhubler@RosenHotels.com

ORLANDO (April 11, 2019) – Rosen Hotels & Resorts’ staff is well known for providing on-the-spot answers to meeting planners’ questions; but now, they are harnessing the power of Alexa to take it to a new level – another example of the Rosen Difference. The Ask Rosen skill for Amazon Alexa is now live and it is skyrocketing Rosen’s award-winning customer-response time to immediate. Meeting planners can enable the Ask Rosen skill on their Amazon Echo device and then simply say, “Alexa, Ask Rosen…” to access all the information they need about Rosen’s three award-winning Orlando convention hotels – Rosen Plaza, Rosen Centre and Rosen Shingle Creek.

The Ask Rosen campaign is the latest in a series of successful Rosen Revealed marketing campaigns from Rosen Hotels & Resorts that help engage meeting planners and make the planning process easier. The campaign recently won Gold and Silver ADDY Awards at the Greater Orlando Advertising Federation and a Gold ADDY Award at the Florida District annual awards celebrating the state’s best sales and marketing programs. Existing meeting planners may receive an Echo device from the sales team, but all planners can access the Ask Rosen Alexa skill on any device through the Amazon library. Programmed with hundreds of answers, Ask Rosen gives instantaneous access to the details, facts and stats that set Rosen properties above the rest.

Ask Rosen is the first Alexa hotel skill developed specifically for meeting planners as an educational tool. Planners who have received an Echo device are “echo”-ing Rosen’s excitement over the new technology. Early feedback shows that being able to get answers right away is key.

Meg Pisani, Sr. Director Supplier Relations, Maritz, calls the sales tool “a stroke of genius. I love the Ask Rosen Alexa skill and branded Echo device, and look forward to having Ask Rosen answer all my meeting questions!”

While Rosen provides multiple resources for planners to get information, no option is faster or more convenient than being able to Ask Rosen in the moment, like while in a planning meeting. This technology helps planners better meet tight deadlines and streamline the planning process, so meeting professionals can instead focus on making their meetings memorable.

“We strive to continually stay ahead of the needs of our meeting planners,” said Leslie Menichini, Vice-President of Sales and Marketing. “While our event team will always provide hands-on solutions, we want to equip our planners with the tools they need to work smarter, faster and more effectively. Those are values that have always been at the core of the Rosen Difference.”

The Ask Rosen skill contains valuable answers regarding facts about convention hotel guestrooms, amenities, and food and beverage; Orlando information, like hotel distances from the airport or the Orange County Convention Center; and statistics on each hotel’s meeting space capabilities and flexibility. The skill even has personal testimonials from Rosen president and COO, Harris Rosen, regarding Rosen Hotels & Resorts’ history, as well as Rosen’s philanthropic efforts.

“The best promo idea ever! The Ask Rosen-branded Amazon Echo device now proudly lives on my desk. We all listened to Mr. Rosen’s message. Cool idea!” says Deb Fafard, Dunkin’ Brands.

Dr. Rosanne White, Executive Director, Student Technology Association, describes the Ask Rosen as “the most fun, personalized meeting tool ever. I can’t wait to hear what I can learn about Rosen Hotels & Resorts!”

Now, the only thing planners need for a flawless event are three simple words: “Alexa, Ask Rosen…”

For more information, please visit AskRosen.com or RosenHotels.com/ROI or call 407-996-4890.

Sleepover for the Cause at Rosen Hotels & Resorts in Orlando

A chance to do good during National Volunteer Week and all year long

For more information, contact:
Robert Hubler
407-639-4212, rhubler@RosenHotels.com

ORLANDO (April 9, 2019) – Whether you volunteer countless hours at charitable organizations or have your own way of supporting your favorite cause, celebrate your contributions with the well-deserved gift of relaxation and leisure in Orlando.

In honor of National Volunteer Week this week, here is your chance to continue giving back while enjoying the lap of luxury with Rosen Hotels & Resorts’ “Sleepover for the Cause” overnight stay package in Orlando, a travel package that gives back the entire year.

Rosen Hotels & Resorts in Orlando is a hospitality group known for its philanthropic programs, the cornerstone of its company culture. As such, associates are given numerous opportunities to give back to their communities through volunteerism. The hotel company also supports healthy initiatives, so it was a natural to invite guests to join in the support of breast cancer research through a special overnight package.

The “Rosen Sleepover for the Cause” package offers the opportunity to do good while relaxing on a well-deserved and luxurious stay in Orlando, with discounted room rates at one of three luxury hotels: Rosen Shingle Creek, Rosen Centre and Rosen Plaza.

Mention the “Sleepover for the Cause” when booking your stay at any one of the three hotels now through the end of the year and 5% of each room night sold will be donated to the American Cancer Society of Central Florida for breast cancer research. Offer is based on availability and may not be combined with any other offers, promotions or group business.

Rosen Hotels & Resorts guests always receive complimentary Wi-Fi in guestrooms and public areas and state-of-the-art security such as RFID locking systems, while never paying a resort fee. Guests also may receive additional perks by booking the offer:

    At Rosen Shingle Creek, package guests will receive:

  • Deluxe accommodations
  • 25% discount on select restaurants, golf, and spa services
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi in guestroom and public areas
  • No resort fee
    At Rosen Centre, package guests will receive:

  • 15% discount on best available rate for a room with one King or two Queens based on availability.
  • 20% discount on spa services at The Spa at Rosen Centre
  • 20% discount on golf at Rosen Shingle Creek Golf Club
  • 20% discount on the many selected dining choices* at Rosen Centre

*Select dining choices include Everglades Restaurant, Harry’s Poolside Bar & Grill, and Café Gauguin. Restaurant operational times and dates may vary; please call in advance.

    At Rosen Plaza, package guests will receive:

  • 15% discount on the best available guestroom rate
  • 15% discount on tee times at Shingle Creek Golf Club (complimentary transportation to and from the course included)
  • 15% discount select dining options, including Jack’s Place, Café Matisse and Lite Bite
  • Complimentary self-parking

The package is a great way to say thank you to someone who deserves recognition during National Volunteer Week. This package is available year-round, so call (866) 33-ROSEN to book a stay now. For more information, visit RosenHotels.com.

The Adam Michael Rosen Foundation Partners with Runway to Hope to Aid Central Florida Families of Children Fighting Cancer

Orlando Charity to Present Ninth Annual Fundraiser May 18, 2019 at Rosen Shingle Creek

ORLANDO (April 2, 2019) – The Adam Michael Rosen Foundation announces that it is partnering with Central Florida’s premier pediatric cancer charity event, Runway to Hope’s Spring Soiree, to help Orlando families with children fighting cancer. The foundation honors the life and legacy of Adam Michael Rosen who passed away from brain cancer this past November at 26. The son of Trisha Rosen and Orlando hotelier and philanthropist Harris Rosen, Adam bravely fought a two-and-a-half-year battle against Gliomatosis Cerebri, a rare malignant brain tumor.

Runway to Hope, founded in 2010 by Orlando attorney Mark NeJame and his wife Josie, is honored to announce that its renowned premier annual event now will be known as The Adam Michael Rosen Foundation presents Runway to Hope’s Spring Soirée.

“The hope and strength Adam displayed during his battle with cancer now drives the mission of the foundation that bears his name,” said Harris Rosen. “Adam was a passionate supporter of many meaningful causes. I’m grateful that through his foundation, Adam’s legacy of courage in the face of adversity and an unbridled enthusiasm toward helping those in need will persevere through partnerships with impactful charities such as Runway to Hope.”

This year marks Rosen Hotels & Resorts’ sixth year as an event sponsor. This new initiative expands the Rosen company’s support of Runway to Hope’s mission and its commitment to help Central Florida families battling pediatric cancer. This year’s gala will be held on Saturday, May 18 at the AAA Four Diamond Rosen Shingle Creek.

Runway to Hope’s annual event welcomes a glittering assembly of local and national celebrities for a one-of-a-kind gala. The evening’s highlight is an inspiring and heartwarming fashion show, featuring more than 160 incredibly brave children, who are fighting – or have overcome – their pediatric cancer. They walk the runway in outfits donated by Bloomingdale’s, while escorted by local and national celebrities, overjoyed by the cheers and tears of an adoring crowd of 2,400 attendees. The children have the night of their lives, forgetting for a brief time about chemotherapy, radiation, daily doctor visits, surgeries and pain. It is an evening of celebration, allowing these wonderful children a night to simply be children.

Adam Rosen was a charming presence at Runway to Hope’s annual fundraiser, where he lit up the runway as a celebrity escort known for his dapper attire, stylish bowties, dazzling smile and most importantly, heartfelt devotion to the children and families impacted by cancer.

Trisha Rosen, Adam’s mother and a longtime Runway to Hope supporter, said it is fitting that her son’s legacy will benefit Central Florida families facing similar battles. “I know that Adam will be with us during this year’s Spring Soiree, and that warms my heart,” she said. “Through the support of his foundation, his fight will go on on behalf of the children helped by Runway to Hope and I can’t think of a better way to honor his life.”

In February, Harris Rosen and his foundation also honored Adam with a $12 million gift to the University of Florida, the cornerstone of an ambitious fundraising commitment to advance innovative brain tumor immunotherapy research and care at UF Health and to launch an unprecedented partnership for the development of novel brain tumor treatments.

Mark and Josie NeJame were inspired to create Runway to Hope after the birth of their two daughters. Having raised millions of dollars, the charity initially provided funding for pediatric oncology programs at the three Central Florida children’s hospitals where the programs were were absent or underfunded. Since then, the non-profit has expanded to also provide direct financial assistance to local families battling pediatric cancer through the its Family Assistance Program. Josie NeJame commented, “We are so touched that Runway to Hope was chosen by the Rosen family and foundation as a way to be able to continue to honor Adam. Together we keep his love, spirit, legacy, and courage alive through The Adam Michael Rosen Foundation presents Runway to Hope’s Spring Soiree. We believe that his contagious smile and kind heart continues to beam down upon us.”

Runway to Hope is honored to have been recognized as the “Best Charity in Central Florida” more than a dozen times in publications including Orlando Style, the Orlando Business Journal and Orlando Magazine, among others.

For more information including sponsorship opportunities with Runway to Hope and The Adam Michael Rosen Foundation presents Runway to Hope’s Spring Soirée, visit www.RunwaytoHope.org or contact Laura Lockner, Executive Director, Runway to Hope, laura@runwaytohope.com, 407-802-1544. For more information about The Adam Michael Rosen Foundation, visit www.facebook.com/AdamMichaelRosenFoundation.

Next Generation of Women Leaders Choose Civic Over Celebration For their Orlando Spring Break

Nine Cornell Students Spend Spring Break in Orlando for Positive Community Impact

ORLANDO (March 29, 2019) -Orlando plays host to droves of college students during the eagerly anticipated Spring Break hiatus from their studies that is replete with lively parties, fun and celebration. Rosen Hotels & Resorts, however, is ensuring the city – and students – benefit from more than just tourism dollars during this time of year. The Harris Rosen Foundation is sponsoring an alternative spring break for nine Cornell University students to engage in meaningful civic volunteerism and positively impact lives outside of their own communities.

“These young students are exceptional examples of leadership in both the college environment and the community,” said Harris Rosen, founder and president of Rosen Hotels & Resorts. “Their collective passion for benevolence will truly resonate with the youth of the Parramore and Tangelo Park areas. As these college students achieve their professional success, our hope is that this week-long immersion within these two communities will serve as the inspiration and springboard for them to develop their own charitable initiatives.”

Alternative Spring Breaks designed to provide college students with exciting opportunities to make a difference during the time off from their studies are becoming increasingly popular. These initiatives enable students to achieve a renewed cultural awareness and immerse themselves in diverse activities.The program set forth for the Cornell students by The Harris Rosen Foundation engages the students in community efforts benefiting elementary and high school aged children in the Parramore and Tangelo Park areas of Orlando. The itinerary also earmarks team building and leadership activities as well as mentoring and reflection time for the volunteers themselves.

The students will spend the bulk of their mornings encouraging and inspiring Orlando’s youth at the Tangelo Park Elementary School. In the afternoons, they will participate in the Tangelo Park Program Community Advisory Board Meeting, engage in mentoring sessions with Dr. Phillips Tangelo Park students and volunteer at the Science Through Literacy Fair. The students will also engage with the Rosen Preschool, which opened in August 2017, and was founded as a part of the Parramore area revitalization efforts. The Harris Rosen Foundation provides funding for all annual teachers’ salaries. It is estimated that The Harris Rosen Foundation will provide two to three million dollars per year to support the Rosen Preschool program.

The Harris Rosen Foundation is sponsoring nine female students, led by student trip leaders Makayla Durant and Sophie Dornevil, to travel to Orlando and stay at Rosen Shingle Creek for the duration of their April 1-5 spring break. All the students hail from Cornell University with a wide variety of majors, including Environmental Engineering, Sociology, Applied Economics and Computer Science.

About the Harris Rosen Foundation
The Harris Rosen Foundation is the charitable arm of Rosen Hotels & Resorts. The foundation focuses on educational initiatives, community programs and support for our brothers and sisters in Haiti. It supports early education and secondary scholarship programs in Orlando’s communities of Tangelo Park and Parramore. In 2015, The King Center recognized Harris Rosen for his Tangelo Park efforts by honoring him with the Coretta Scott King A.N.G.E.L. (Advancing Nonviolence through Generations of Exceptional Leadership) Award.

About Rosen Hotels & Resorts
Celebrating its 45th anniversary this June 24, Rosen Hotels & Resorts comprises close to 7,000 guest rooms and 700,000 square feet of meeting and event space at eight Orlando hotels: three convention properties – Rosen Plaza, Rosen Centre and Rosen Shingle Creek, as well as five value-priced leisure properties – Rosen Inn International; Rosen Inn closest to Universal; Rosen Inn Pointe Orlando; Midpointe Hotel and Clarion Inn Lake Buena Vista. For more information, visit RosenHotels.com.

University of Florida and UF Health announce $12 million gift from Orlando business leader to launch brain tumor research initiative

The Harris Rosen Foundation investment supports a multipartner collaboration focused on leading-edge brain tumor immunotherapy

ORLANDO — The University of Florida has received a $12 million gift from Orlando hotel magnate Harris Rosen and The Harris Rosen Foundation to advance innovative brain tumor immunotherapy research and care at UF Health and to launch an unprecedented partnership for the development of novel brain tumor treatments.

The Rosen gift is the cornerstone of a $100 million fundraising commitment to support the ReMission Alliance Against Brain Tumors, a groundbreaking, collaborative initiative led by UF that will unite world-leading neuro-oncology physicians and scientists in dynamic research and clinical trials.

The gift was announced Friday, Feb. 22, before the inaugural ReMission Summit for Brain Tumors at the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel in Orlando. The UF-organized Summit brings together more than 100 experts in neuro-oncology, tumor immunology, genetics, artificial intelligence, neuroimaging and bioinformatics to form an elite research community focused on achieving transformative outcomes for patients with brain tumors over the next decade. The ReMission Summit also serves as the public forum for the debut of the ReMission Alliance, a multi-institutional research collaborative focused on the advancement of novel immunotherapies for adult and pediatric brain cancer.

“I am extremely grateful that Harris Rosen and his family share our vision to make a transformative impact on outcomes for patients with brain tumors,” said Duane Mitchell, M.D., Ph.D., co-director of UF’s Preston A. Wells Jr. Center for Brain Tumor Therapy and director of the ReMission Alliance. “Their support of our research, patient care initiatives and the ReMission Alliance will allow us to leverage the power of the immune system to combat invasive brain cancers to dramatically improve the lives of brain tumor patients, here at UF and abroad.”

The ReMission Alliance’s work builds on the success and growth of UF’s Preston A. Wells Jr. Center for Brain Tumor Therapy and collaborative research partnerships fostered over several years by Mitchell and his colleagues. Over the past five years, the center has undergone dramatic growth and established itself as a leader for brain tumor treatment and research. Along with William Friedman, M.D., co-director of the Preston A. Wells Jr. Center, Mitchell and his team will support several bold research projects and clinical trials coordinated with principal partners from among the world’s best research institutes and hospitals.

“Thanks to the generosity and support of Harris Rosen and his family, we are able to pursue research breakthroughs that result in real change,” UF President Kent Fuchs said. “I am confident that, together, we can advance the work necessary to provide extraordinary outcomes for patients suffering from malignant brain tumors and improve their survival rates and quality of life. The ReMission Alliance embodies UF’s commitment to the greater good.”

This work — to organize multidisciplinary, collaborative research efforts among groups of skilled researchers and physicians — resonated deeply with Harris Rosen. His son, Adam, who received care at UF Health, died in November after a prolonged fight with brain cancer. Harris was impressed by the UF Health clinical team’s professionalism, skill and commitment to making Adam and his family as comfortable as possible.

“It was obvious how dedicated they are to improving the quality of life for their patients,” Rosen said. “The team at UF is already doing extraordinary work, and the Alliance will enhance their progress and improve outcomes for patients well beyond Florida. A collaboration like this is difficult and lofty, but my family and I support this vision to rewrite the story of brain cancer.”
The Rosen gift will bolster ongoing research efforts at UF Health and provide vital seed funding for the ReMission Alliance. The suite that houses the UF Health Neuromedicine practice at the UF Health Neuromedicine Hospital and the neuro-oncology laboratories within UF’s Evelyn F. and William L. McKnight Brain Institute will be named in honor of Adam Michael Rosen. This investment by the Rosen family adds considerably to the UF Health Cancer Center’s growing resources to combat deadly malignant diseases. Mitchell serves as co-leader of the UFHCC Cancer Therapeutics and Host Response, or CTHR, program.

“Programs like the CTHR bring researchers from numerous UF colleges, departments, centers and institutes together, working in tandem to advance the development of new cancer therapies for resistant cancers,” said Jonathan D. Licht, M.D., director of the UFHCC. “Initiatives at the Cancer Center have become a centerpiece of UF Health’s overall research portfolio, which includes approximately $200 million per year in NIH funding and totals $450 million in sponsored program expenditures.”

David Nelson, M.D., UF’s interim senior vice president for health affairs, added his appreciation for the Harris Rosen Foundation gift.

“This contribution to the groundbreaking work and collaboration that our team at UF Health is undertaking is a significant vote of confidence that our efforts will make a profound impact on the people and communities we serve,” Nelson said. “Our physicians and researchers are fueling scientific discovery while developing new, promising pathways for patient care. Through the collaboration that this gift catalyzes, our impact will be even greater.”

These transformative commitments demonstrate how UF, as one of just a handful of global comprehensive universities, is positioned to leverage its research expertise and academic excellence to create lasting impact in the health care field and address major societal challenges.

Harris Rosen is the founder, president and chief operating officer of Rosen Hotels & Resorts. His company owns eight hotels and resorts in Central Florida, including the 1,501-room, AAA Four Diamond Rosen Shingle Creek.