Rising Star: Rani Bernstein ’19
The Story
Hotel Ezra Cornell 94 – 2019
Rani Bernstein, Human Resources Director
HEC 94 was themed “Finding Synergy,” focusing on how hospitality was beginning to infuse itself into other industries and break the boundaries of what was considered “traditional” in industries such as healthcare, technology, and medicine. This conference featured HEC’s first-ever female keynote speaker, Valerie Ann Wilson, Founder, Owner, Chair, and CEO of Valerie Wilson Travel.
Rani Bernstein is the Lead Recruiting Manager for U.S. and Canada University Relations at Marriott International. With a strong passion for hospitality, Rani strives to demystify career paths and serve as a trusted resource for students and early-career professionals—whether or not they pursue a future with Marriott.
Raised in Rochester, New York, Rani grew up with a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of the impact of empathy. At the age of 15, she began working at a local pizza shop, a formative experience that sparked her love for hospitality—a field she was excited to learn, one that blended with her values of hard work and caring for others.
A family friend introduced her to Cornell’s School of Hotel Administration, and after a visit that included a meeting with career services advisor Heather Fortenberry, she knew she had found the place for her. Though the transition to Cornell was challenging, she found a sense of belonging at The Statler Hotel, working in the Banquets Department and progressing through the Hotel Leadership Development Program. She also served as president of the Epicurean Society – winning the Hotel School Club Leadership Award – and worked as a teaching assistant for three professors—building relationships that remain meaningful to her today.
Rani and Professor Ravinder Kingra MMH ’12, winning the Hotel School Club Leadership Award.
During her time at Cornell, Rani became deeply involved with Hotel Ezra Cornell (HEC), eventually serving as a director in her senior year. It was through this role that she discovered an interest in Human Resources, thanks in part to conversations with Abigail Charpentier ’95, who later became a pivotal mentor as Rani transitioned to recruitment.
HEC 94 Board
Coming into hospitality with no prior knowledge about the industry, Rani recognized how overwhelming it could be for students to navigate career fairs and identify roles that aligned with their interests. At her first career fair, she was approached by Marriott recruiter Sarah D’Angelo, whose warmth and encouragement made a lasting impression. That moment planted the seed for Rani’s future in university recruiting—and Sarah would go on to become both her mentor and manager.
After graduating, Rani joined Marriott’s Voyage Global Leadership Development Program as a rooms operations voyager at the New York Marriott Marquis, focusing on housekeeping operations. There, she sharpened her skills in people and process management. When the pandemic hit, Rani pivoted to work for a management company opening Marriott franchises, helping to build out SOPs for hiring and operations. Though a wonderful experience, at the time she missed the dynamic environment of hotel operations.
She returned to Marriott to help open the dual-branded W & Element Philadelphia—an intense yet transformative experience. Leading a lean housekeeping team for a 755-room property, Rani gained exposure to all facets of operations. It was here she discovered a passion for developing systems that improve both guest experiences and associate well-being.
Rani at W Philadelphia (second from the left).
While living in New York City, Rani stayed actively engaged with the Cornell Hotel Society (CHS) Chapter, attending as many events as she could. After relocating to Philadelphia, she saw untapped potential within the already active South Jersey/Philadelphia CHS Chapter. Eager to contribute, she connected with the chapter leader and joined the executive board, taking on responsibility for managing the chapter’s social media presence. Together, the board worked to expand programming and community engagement, including organizing a standout event—a Hotelie Panel moderated by industry leader Ted Teng ’79.
With guidance from mentors like Abigail, Rani eventually transitioned to Human Resources. When a role on the University Relations and Recruiting Team opened, those close to Rani encouraged her to apply. Despite having less experience than typical candidates, her empathetic approach stood out. Sarah, now leading the team, took a chance on Rani—and it paid off.
In her current role, Rani has spent the past three years championing the expansion of Marriott’s presence on campuses and social media, making the brand more accessible to younger generations. She has visited over 15 universities, engaged with hundreds of students, and helped recruit top talent into Marriott’s early-career programs. For Rani, the most fulfilling aspect is helping students feel at ease—just as Sarah once did for her—and creating a welcoming space where they can confidently explore their interests and discover the possibilities within the hospitality industry.
Alli Demers, Rani Bernstein, Michael Wiszowaty, and Sarah D’Angelo from Marriott’s URR team.
Rani with David Marriott, Sarah D’Angelo, Michael Wiszowaty, Director of the Hospitality Program,
and other leaders at Penn State.
Now, working with global leaders in talent acquisition, Rani is dedicated to educating and empowering the next generation of hospitality professionals, while recruiting the best talent for the world’s largest travel company. Her mission is clear: to make the industry more approachable, inclusive, and full of opportunity—for everyone.
Marriott’s University Relations Team
Rani extends her heartfelt gratitude to the School of Hotel Administration, the Cornell Hotel Society, the Cornell Hotel Society Hall of Fame, and the dedicated professors and staff who have supported her throughout her journey—both during her time at Cornell and beyond. She would like to extend a special thank you to the colleagues she has worked with along the way; each has truly taught her about hospitality and how to be a leader. She is especially thankful to her parents, whose sacrifices and unwavering support laid the foundation for the opportunities she’s had and the path she continues to follow.
