Wyndham International, Inc. (NYSE:WYN) was recently named to Fortune Magazine`s list of the Best Companies for Minorities for its commitment to creating a diverse workforce of talented employees.
Ranking 17th of 50 top companies, Wyndham was recognized by Fortune because more than 60 percent of its workforce comprises minorities—the highest rate among the 50 companies listed.

“Wyndham`s mission has been to create a diverse workforce that mirrors its clientele,” said Fred J. Kleisner, chairman and chief executive officer of Wyndham International. “In less than two years, Wyndham`s diversity initiative has created new opportunities for minority-owned businesses and developed awareness programs that not only benefit our employees, but also support the customers we serve.”

As part of its Diversity Action Plan, Wyndham established a Diversity Advisory Board in 2001, comprised of professional men and women from various ethnic backgrounds. Among the first initiatives of the Board was assessing Wyndham`s purchasing system to ensure inclusion of women and minority-owned suppliers and marketing outlets, and ascertain ethnically sensitive marketing outreach. As a result of this successful program, Fortune praised Wyndham with “top honors in purchasing” for tripling its business with minority vendors in one year.

The highest rated of four hotel companies on Fortune`s list, Wyndham has continued to enhance its Diversity Action Plan with initiatives targeting key issues, such as recruitment and retention, vendor relationships and advertising. Wyndham has vaulted onto Fortune`s list as a result of achievements in these specific areas, including:

— Launched a recruiting campaign that affects all levels and areas of employment— Created a Diversity Awareness Education program that focuses on valuing differences— Established minority partnerships for franchising relationships to create synergies that benefit all shareholders— Launched a brand marketing campaign focused on outreach to diverse publications — Achieved greater diversity on Wyndham`s Board of Directors— Developed a mentoring program that pairs employees of similar backgrounds to encourage professional development— Created an Alternative Work Arrangements program

For more information on Wyndham`s diversity initiatives, visit www.wyndham-recruiting.com and click on the “Valuing Differences” tab.
Wyndham International, Inc. (NYSE:WYN) offers upscale and luxury hotel and resort accommodations through proprietary lodging brands and a management services division. Based in Dallas, Wyndham International owns, leases, manages and franchises hotels and resorts in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe. For more information, visit www.wyndham.com. For reservations, call 800-Wyndham.

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