DAPs Magic Disney News – PRESS RELEASE
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., March 8, 2012 – The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando (HCCMO) has named George Aguel, Senior Vice President for The Walt Disney Company, to its inaugural list of the 25 most influential in Hispanics in Central Florida. The organization’s editorial board selected Aguel based on his leadership and contributions to the environment and growth of the Hispanic community in Central Florida.
A Cast Member for 21 years, Aguel oversees a diverse portfolio of businesses, including the conventions and events businesses at Walt Disney World Resort and other destinations around the world. He is also responsible for the Company’s Corporate Alliances and Operating Participants teams, as well as the Disney Institute. As a champion for diversity and inclusion, Aguel is a charter member of the Disney Leadership Advisory Board, which provides strategic guidance and direction for the Company’s diversity efforts. He also co-founded and served as executive champion for HOLA, a diversity resource group that promotes Hispanic/Latino heritage and cultural exchange for Disney Cast Members.
Aguel is also active in the broader hospitality industry. He serves on the U.S. Travel Meetings, Incentive and Trade Show Council and is Past Chairman of Visit Orlando. He also served as International Chairman of the Board for Meeting Professionals International (MPI), the industry’s largest professional association.
Bridging his corporate and industry leadership roles with his personal passion for diversity and inclusion, Aguel has made significant contributions in advancing opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds. Under his leadership MPI and Walt Disney Parks and Resorts launched the MPI Multicultural Initiative, which advocated all-inclusive, business-to-business opportunities in the national meetings and convention industry.
HCCMO previously recognized Aguel’s accomplishments honoring him with its 2004 Professional of the Year designation and presenting him the Don Quijote Award, which recognized his entrepreneurial spirit, character and determination.
