Governor McKee Nominates Sarah Bratko to the Rhode Island Convention Center Authority Board

Published on Thursday, May 22, 2025

PROVIDENCE, RI — Today, Governor Dan McKee announced he has nominated hospitality leader Sarah Bratko to serve on the Rhode Island Convention Center Authority’s Board of Directors.

The Authority is an 11-member board that operates the Rhode Island Convention & Entertainment Complex, which includes the Rhode Island Convention Center, the Amica Mutual Pavilion, and the Veterans Memorial Auditorium.

“Sarah brings exceptional leadership and extensive experience in the hospitality industry, making her a valuable addition to the board,” said Governor Dan McKee. “Rhode Island is known for its vibrant festivals, world-class events, and dynamic entertainment scene. I look forward to working with Sarah and the board to grow these opportunities and bring even more premier experiences to the Ocean State.”

Bratko has over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry. She is currently the Vice President of Government Affairs and Policy Counsel for the American Hotel & Lodging Association, where she works closely with national hotel executives, ownership and management groups, and industry leaders to advocate for a strong and prosperous hotel industry.

Bratko previously worked for the Rhode Island Hospitality Association, serving as Manager of Governmental Affairs, the Senior Vice President of Advocacy, and General Counsel.

“I am honored to receive Governor McKee’s nomination to the Rhode Island Convention Center Authority Board,” said Sarah Bratko. “The RI Convention Center is a pivotal anchor to the economic vitality of Rhode Island’s hotel, tourism, and hospitality industry. I look forward to working with the Board to advance the RICC’s mission of attracting the finest exhibits, entertainment, and events to our great state.”

Bratko was honored with the 2022 Hospitality Hero Award from the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau and as the 2019 Emerging Leader of the Year by the Rhode Island Hospitality Association.

She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and History from the University of Vermont and earned her Juris Doctor from the Roger Williams School of Law. She is admitted to the Bar in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and the U.S. Supreme Court.

Bratko’s name has been submitted to the Rhode Island Senate for advice and consent.