BLOCK 22 MANAGEMENT GROUP ANNOUNCES STAFF CHANGES

“Block 22’s success has always been attributable to its outstanding team of professionals,” said John Cunningham, CEO of Block 22 Management Group. “Sarah, Michael, Lilinda, and Samantha are representative of the skills and commitment of our entire team. These promotions recognize their hard work, performance, and are all well-deserved.”

Sarah Smith was recently promoted in November 2023 to Director of Creative Services with the Idaho Steelheads after spending the previous four years as Graphic Design and Social Media Manager. She first joined the company as an intern in August 2015 working primarily as a graphic design intern with the sales team at The Grove Hotel. The Nampa, ID native earned her undergraduate degree in Graphic Design with a minor in Spanish from Northwest Nazarene University in May 2016. Shen then began working full-time for Block 22 Management Group upon graduation with emphasis on graphic design and marketing for The Grove Hotel and Idaho Steelheads.

“Sarah has been an instrumental piece in continuing to enhance our brand within all our properties specifically with the Steelheads,” said Eric Trapp, President of Idaho Sports Properties. “Throughout her time within our organization she has taken on more responsibilities and has proven that she is a very well-rounded team player and leader. We are excited to acknowledge all her success with this promotion and look forward to seeing her further development within our company.”

Smith continued to elevate her role within Block 22 Management Group as she integrated herself into more properties within the company. In 2017, she began to work with Hotel 43 and Courtyard by Marriott as a graphic designer and marketing coordinator, increasing brand exposure by revamping advertising. In 2019, she designed and developed brand identity melding the eclectic and aesthetic of the remodeled Trillium Restaurant.

“Sarah Smith leading the Creative Services team will elevate Block 22 properties,” said Vicki Carley, Regional Director of Sales and Marketing. “Her focus on branding for our independent hotels, creativity, and cohesive messaging will allow us to have a stronger presence on many platforms. Her passion and knowledge for sports, entertainment, and the hospitality industries make Sarah the ideal leader to develop this team of talented individuals.”

Michael Munn has been with Block 22 for over 12 years where he has overseen the management of all company operations systems. The Ontario, OR native’s deep technical expertise and commitment to security has protected all Block 22 systems and guest data since he started.

Lilinda Thompson has been with Block 22 for four years, serving as Manager of Human Resources. With her extensive background in both management and educational leadership, she brings a wealth of experience and deep understanding of people-centered strategy. Thompson has been instrumental in developing a culture rooted in hospitality and servant leadership, setting the tone for a workplace where every team member feels valued and supported. She holds a Bachelor of Science from WSU in Hotel and Restaurant Management, a Master of Science in Business Management, and is a certified Society for Human Resource Management member (SHRM-CP).

Samantha Bolen has been with Block 22 for eight years where she has served as a Senior Accountant and Accounts Receivable/Staff Accountant. The Lewiston, Idaho native holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Idaho in Accounting and Finance.

About Block 22 Management Group

Block 22 was formed in Boise, ID in 1997 originally comprised of The Grove Hotel, Idaho Central Arena (formerly CenturyLink Arena), the Idaho Steelheads Professional Hockey Club, Front Street Fights, Hotel 43, the Courtyard by Marriott Boise Downtown, and Capitol & Front Garage.

Block 22 manages 525 hotel guest rooms at the three hotels, which offer a combined 17,000 square feet of meeting & convention space, hosting hundreds of events each year, ranging from private boardroom functions, weddings & receptions, and large social galas.