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Anthony Harris (1955-2003) was not only Chief Executive of Hilton International, but also the founder trustee and chairman of Hilton in the Community Foundation. The charity was shaped by his vision and leadership. For Anthony it was more than an expression of corporate social responsibility, although clearly he recognised that imperative. At
times it seemed almost a personal crusade. This was especially so in the context of young people and education, where he was determined to create real opportunities for better, more fulfilling lives. |
Professionally, Anthony was outstanding, one of the leading hoteliers of his generation. A man of total integrity and strong ideals, he brought a passion, a questing spirit and a rare enthusiasm to work and play alike. His career with Hilton spanned some 25 years, working first at the London Hilton on Park Lane, then the Cavalieri Hilton in Rome, before becoming Vice President for Sales in Europe. He moved on to work for Ciga hotels in Italy and then Stakis in the UK before returning to Hilton, first as Managing Director UK & Ireland and then as Chief Executive, Hilton International. In this role, he took responsibility for hotel operations in more than 70 countries.
Anthony's tragic death from bone marrow cancer in March 2003 – aged just 47 – came as a very deep shock to all who knew him. A memorial service was held at the London Hilton on Park Lane on 18 May 2003 to celebrate his life and to raise funds for the charity he had founded.
Almost £43,000 was raised and the trustees of the Foundation, in close consultation with Anthony's immediate family, selected Treloar's College (a previous grant recipient) to benefit from the Fund. Treloar's, based in Alton, Hampshire, is a groundbreaking organisation, providing first class facilities and education for young people with severe physical disabilities. Their fundamental purpose is to enable disabled young people to fulfil their potential in every aspect of their lives.
The Memorial Fund was rounded up to £49,000 by the Foundation, to cover the cost of providing a highly professional kitchen and very welcoming dining area in Anthony's name that will benefit the students and the staff for many years to come.
On 22 September 2004, Jacqui Harris, Anthony's widow and Mickey Harris, Anthony's brother, together with Hilton in the Community Foundation trustees, went to Treloar's College to open the Anthony Harris Dining Room. He had visited Treloar's College on a number of occasions and admired the outstanding work that they undertake. It is therefore fitting that Anthony's Memorial Fund should support this inspirational and worthwhile charity. |
