Marriott sets industry milestone with neuroinclusive events

Friday, December 1, 2023

Marriott International, Inc., a prominent figure in the hotel industry with over 95 years of leadership, has declared its dedication to integrating neuroinclusive approaches into Marriott-hosted customer events worldwide, involving 250 or more attendees. This commitment stems from the collaboration with The Neu Project, an initiative by Google’s Experience Institute (Xi) that seeks to disseminate resources aimed at enhancing the experience for neurodivergent participants during meetings and events. These practices are currently being showcased at Marriott’s Corporate Partnership Customer Conference, THE EXCHANGE, occurring from November 28 to December 1, 2023, at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa in Palm Springs, CA.

Around 15-20 percent of the global population possesses neuro differences, such as ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, autism, dyslexia, epilepsy, and Tourette Syndrome.* In 2022, The Neu Project was launched by the Google Experience Institute to demystify and educate event professionals on designing more neuroinclusive experiences through a comprehensive guide and checklist.

Starting immediately, the following neuroinclusive practices will be integrated into Marriott-hosted customer meetings and events with 250 or more attendees:

1. Quiet Room: A dedicated space will be provided during Marriott customer events for sensory recovery, restoration, and regulation. This room, designed to enhance the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of participants, serves as a tranquil retreat for managing fatigue, overload, and sensory needs.
2. Tools and Resources: At registration, attendees will have the option to request various tools to better accommodate their needs, including sensory and fidget toys, noise-canceling earplugs, sleep masks, sunglasses, printed agendas and venue maps, and information about loud music, flashing lights, or surprise elements during the event.
3. Closed Captioning for Main Stage Presentations: Real-time subtitles and captions will be displayed on-screen during main stage events and conference presentations.

Drew Pinto, Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue & Technology Officer at Marriott International, stated, “Grounded in our commitments to innovation and inclusion, Marriott is dedicated to making meetings and events more accessible for everyone.” The collaboration with The Neu Project aims to deepen understanding of neurodivergent needs and foster a welcoming environment for all.

Marriott has actively worked with The Neu Project over the past two years, incorporating neuroinclusive practices at recent customer events, including THE EXCHANGE: Association Masters in Phoenix, AZ, and THE EXCHANGE: Europe in Madrid, Spain. The company plans to conduct active listening sessions in 2024, engaging with the neurodivergent community through conversations with The Neu Project and individuals who are neurodivergent to inform future initiatives.

Megan Henshall, Global Events Strategy at Google, expressed, “Marriott understands that creating environments where differing perspectives and experiences can come together boosts creativity.” The ongoing partnership with The Neu Project reflects Marriott’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, aligning with its core values. Through collaborations with organizations like Disability:IN, Marriott provides various resources to enhance accessibility at meetings, events, and conferences.

« Back to Page

• Marriott’s Sheraton Suites Galleria Atlanta Redefines Luxury with $12 Million Renovation

• Residence Inn Fayetteville Unveils Renovations at Grand Ribbon-Cutting Event

• Top Executives from Marriott, Hilton, Accor, and More to Speak at NYU International Hospitality Industry Investment Event in New York City

• What’s Behind Marriott International’s Celebration of Its Sustainability Achievements?

• Fairfield by Marriott Celebrates Milestone with 50th Hotel Opening in Greater China