Vimal Patel

Patel was raised in Troy, AL, where he attended Charles Henderson High School. He then went on to Auburn University and received a degree in Public Administration. Among other clubs, Patel was a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.

Upon graduation in 2007, Patel returned to Troy, AL. Contemplating between law school and his family business, Patel opted to return to his roots and work in his family’s hospitality business.

As the country faced a severe recession, Patel took it as an opportunity to “lead from the front.” Tightening unnecessary spending and providing superior service enabled Patel to keep intact his entire staff while protecting the profitability of hotels located in Montgomery, Troy, and Dothan.

Patel, since then, has sat on many boards with responsibilities. He is in leadership for Dothan Tuesday Rotary Club, Vice President of India Association of South Alabama, Regional Advisory Board for Choice Hotels International Owner Council, Citizens Supervisory Committee for the City of Dothan, Supernumerary for the Planning and Zoning Commission, Exchange Center for Child Abuse Prevention, and the Saliba Family Services Center. He has previously served as Treasurer of the Wiregrass Museum of Art and was the Chairman of the Alzheimer's Resource Center Walk to Remember in 2021, where they exceeded their donation goal.

When the Covid-19 pandemic was declared in 2020, Patel took the opportunity again to “lead from the front.” Before any announcement of PPP funding, Patel assured his staff that they would have food on the table. He did not cut any jobs or hours and provided care beyond recommendations while respecting individual rights and liberties. Patel spent time at all businesses helping all departments “from the frontline.”

Vimal lives in Dothan, AL, with his wife, daughter, father, mother, father-in-law, and mother-in-law. Patel believes it truly takes a village and is a devout family man.