Alice Marriott's Legacy: A Business Biography

An Overview of the Life Story of Alice Marriott

Early Life and Background

Alice Sheets Marriott was born on October 19, 1907, in Salt Lake City, Utah. The daughter of attorney Edwin Spencer Sheets, Alice faced tragedy early in life when her father passed away during the 1918 Spanish flu epidemic.

Raised by her mother, Alice Taylor Sheets, she was encouraged to excel academically and follow the Mormon faith.

Education and Meeting Bill Marriott

Alice’s educational journey began at the University of Utah, where she studied Spanish at age 16. Here, she met her future husband, John Willard “Bill” Marriott, a farmer from Ogden, Utah, known for his entrepreneurial spirit.

Marriage and Business Beginnings

Alice and Bill Marriott tied the knot on June 9, 1927.

The couple ventured into business together, starting with an A&W franchise in Washington, D.C. Alice took on the role of bookkeeper for their first A&W stand, marking the beginning of their business empire.

Innovation and Expansion

The Marriotts were not content with just running an A&W stand. Alice introduced Mexican cuisine after consulting with a chef from the Mexican Embassy.

This led to the renaming of their business to “The Hot Shoppe,” and in 1928, they opened the first drive-in restaurant east of the Mississippi River. Their expansion continued with the opening of multiple Hot Shoppes.

Family Life and Further Business Growth

During this period, Alice and Bill welcomed two sons, John Willard Jr. (1932) and Richard Edwin. While focusing on family, Alice continued to influence the business. During World War II, the Marriotts diversified into airline catering and food service management.

Diversification and Public Offering

In 1953, Marriott Corporation went public. The company ventured into the hotel business with the Twin Bridges Motor Hotel in 1957. This era saw growth in their restaurant and hotel divisions, including acquisitions.

Political and Community Involvement

Alice was active in Republican politics and involved in the Mormon community. Her contributions extended to cultural organizations like the Washington Ballet Guild.

She was a philanthropist, contributing to various causes, including the University of Utah.

Legacy and Later Years

After becoming a widow in 1985, Alice continued her community and cultural activities. She passed away on April 17, 2000, leaving a legacy in business and philanthropy.

Personal Background

Alice Taylor Sheets was more than just the daughter of a lawyer; she was a woman of substance and determination.

Education

Graduating with honors in 1927, Alice was a Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and Chi Omega sorority member, showcasing her academic prowess and social involvement.

Marriage and Early Career

Alice’s marriage to J. Willard Marriott marked the start of a lifelong partnership in both personal and professional spheres. Her role as a bookkeeper was pivotal in establishing their root beer stand.

Business Expansion and Innovation

Introducing a Mexican-themed menu was a game-changer, leading to the rebranding of their establishment as The Hot Shoppe and subsequent expansion.

Later Career and Community Involvement

Alice’s tenure on the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts board and her role as Vice-chairman of the Republican National Committee highlight her influence beyond the business world.

Philanthropy and Legacy

Her endowments and contributions, such as the Marriott School of Management at Brigham Young University and the Alice Sheets Marriott Center for Dance, underline her commitment to education and the arts.

Family Connections

Her mother’s marriage to U.S. Senator Reed Smoot is a notable aspect of her family history, demonstrating a connection to significant political figures.

Early Life and Family Background

Born in Salt Lake City, Alice lost her father, a respected figure in the Mormon Church, in the flu epidemic of 1919.

Education and Marriage

Her time at the University of Utah and subsequent marriage to J. Willard Marriott the day after graduation are pivotal moments in her life story.

Business Involvement and Growth

Alice’s deep involvement in the business, from bookkeeping to decision-making, played a crucial role in the expansion of the Hot Shoppes.

Family and Continued Influence in Business

Her influence in significant business decisions, including the transition of CEO from her husband to her son, showcases her enduring impact on the Marriott legacy.

Civic, Charitable, and Cultural Involvement

Alice’s roles in the Republican party and various cultural organizations highlight her commitment to civic and cultural affairs.

Legacy and Awards

Her volunteerism philosophy and extensive family legacy, including grandchildren and great-grandchildren, are testaments to her impact.

Alice Sheets Marriott’s life story is one of resilience, innovation, and dedication to family and community, leaving an indelible mark on American corporate and social history.

Key Points and Facts

Alice Sheets Marriott: A Life of Business Acumen and Philanthropy

Early Life and Background (1907-1918)

Born in Salt Lake City, Utah, on October 19, 1907.
Daughter of Edwin Spencer Sheets, an attorney, and Alice Taylor Sheets.
Lost her father during the 1918 Spanish flu epidemic.
Raised in the Mormon faith and encouraged to excel academically.

Education and Meeting Bill Marriott (1920s)

Attended the University of Utah from age 16, majoring in Spanish.
Met John Willard “Bill” Marriott, her future husband, at university.
Bill was a farmer from Ogden, Utah, with entrepreneurial talents.

Marriage and Business Beginnings (1927)

Married Bill Marriott on June 9, 1927, in Salt Lake Temple.
Moved to Washington, D.C., and became the bookkeeper for their A&W stand.

Innovation and Expansion (Late 1920s-1930s)

Introduced Mexican cuisine at their A&W stands.
Renamed the business “The Hot Shoppe,” opening the first drive-in restaurant east of the Mississippi in 1928.
Expanded rapidly, opening multiple Hot Shoppes.

Family Life and Further Business Growth (1930s-1950s)

Birth of sons John Willard Jr. (1932) and Richard Edwin.
Entered airline catering and food service management during WWII.

Diversification and Public Offering (1950s-1960s)

Marriott Corporation became publicly traded in 1953.
Expanded into hotels with the Twin Bridges Motor Hotel in 1957.
Acquired various restaurant and hotel chains.

Political and Community Involvement (1960s-1980s)

Active in Republican politics and Mormon community activities.
Supported cultural organizations like the Washington Ballet Guild.
Generous contributions to the University of Utah.

Legacy and Later Years (1985-2000)

Widowed in 1985.
Continued her involvement in community and cultural activities.
Passed away on April 17, 2000, leaving a significant legacy in business and philanthropy.

Education and Early Career

Graduated with honors from the University of Utah in 1927.
Member of Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and Chi Omega sorority.

Later Career and Community Involvement

Served on the board of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts for two ten-year terms.
Vice-chairman of the Republican National Committee (1965-1976).
Honorary chairman of Richard Nixon’s 1973 inaugural committee.

Philanthropy and Legacy

Funded the Marriott School of Management at Brigham Young University in 1988.
Established the Alice Sheets Marriott Center for Dance at the University of Utah.

Family Connections

Her mother, Alice Taylor Sheets, married U.S. Senator Reed Smoot in 1930.

Business Involvement and Growth

Deeply involved in business operations, including bookkeeping and décor choices.
Actively participated in the expansion of the Hot Shoppes.
Supported the company’s move into the hotel business in the 1960s.

Civic, Charitable, and Cultural Involvement

Treasurer for national Republican conventions in 1964, 1968, and 1972.
Trustee and board member at various cultural organizations.
Engaged with the National Symphony Orchestra and National Ballet Society.

Legacy and Awards

Remembered for her volunteerism through the Alice S. Marriott Award for Community Service.
Survived by two sons, eight grandchildren, and twenty-three great-grandchildren.

Alice Sheets Marriott’s story is a testament to her resilience, business acumen, and commitment to community service, shaping her as a pioneering figure in American corporate and social history.

Alice Marriott

Early Years and Education

1907: Born on October 19 in Salt Lake City, Utah.
1918: Lost her father, Edwin Spencer Sheets, during the Spanish flu epidemic.
1920s: Attended the University of Utah from age 16, majoring in Spanish.

Marriage and Business Ventures

1927:
- Graduated from the University of Utah with honors.
- Married John Willard “Bill” Marriott on June 9.
- Moved to Washington, D.C., and started working as a bookkeeper at an A&W stand.
- Launched The Hot Shoppe, introducing Mexican cuisine to their menu.

Family Life and Business Expansion

1932: Welcomed her first son, John Willard Jr.
1930s-1950s: Actively involved in expanding the business while focusing on family.
1939: Gave birth to her second son, Richard Edwin.
World War II: Entered the airline catering and food service management industry.

Corporate Growth and Community Engagement

1953: Marriott Corporation became publicly traded.
1957: Expanded into the hotel industry with the Twin Bridges Motor Hotel.
1960s-1980s: Active in Republican politics, Mormon community, and cultural organizations.
1965-1976: Vice-chairman of the Republican National Committee.
1973: Honorary chairman of Richard Nixon’s inaugural committee.

Philanthropy and Honors

1988: Funded the Marriott School of Management at Brigham Young University.
1989: Contributed to the establishment of the Alice Sheets Marriott Center for Dance at the University of Utah.
1990s: Continued involvement in community and cultural activities.

Legacy

1985: Became a widow.
2000: Passed away on April 17, leaving a rich legacy in business and philanthropy.

This timeline outlines Alice Sheets Marriott’s life, highlighting her journey from a young girl in Utah to a pioneering businesswoman and philanthropist, deeply involved in her community and family.

Her legacy remains in the multiple facets of the Marriott Corporation and her extensive civic contributions.

Three Lessons from Alice Sheets Marriott’s Life

1. Perseverance Through Challenges

Alice Sheets Marriott’s early life was marked by the loss of her father during the 1918 Spanish flu epidemic. Despite this tragedy, she was raised by her mother to excel in school and stay true to her faith.

This part of her life teaches us about resilience. Even when faced with tough times, like losing a loved one, it’s possible to move forward and achieve great things.

Alice’s determination in her studies and later in her business ventures shows that facing challenges head-on can lead to success.

2. Innovation and Adaptability in Business

Alice Sheets Marriott wasn’t just a bookkeeper in her husband’s business; she was a key player in its innovation and expansion.

She introduced Mexican cuisine to their A&W stands, a move that led to the creation of The Hot Shoppe and the first drive-in restaurant east of the Mississippi River.

Alice’s story demonstrates the importance of being innovative and adaptable.

When you’re willing to try new ideas and adapt to changing circumstances, like Alice did by adding new menu items and expanding the business model, you can grow a small venture into a large, successful enterprise.

3. Balancing Family and Career

Alice Marriott managed to balance her responsibilities as a businesswoman and a mother, raising two sons while playing a significant role in the growth and diversification of the Marriott Corporation.

She showed that it’s possible to have a fulfilling career and a rich family life. Her involvement in both family and business teaches us about the importance of balancing different aspects of life.

You can be dedicated to your career and still make time for family, influencing major business decisions while nurturing a close-knit family environment.

Alice Sheets Marriott’s life story is a source of inspiration, demonstrating the values of resilience, innovation, adaptability, and balance.

Her legacy in business and her contributions to her family and community provide valuable lessons for anyone aspiring to make a positive impact in their world.

Questions and Answers

Frequently Asked Questions about Alice Sheets Marriott

When and Where Was Alice Sheets Marriott Born?

Alice was born on October 19, 1907, in Salt Lake City, Utah. She was the daughter of Edwin Spencer Sheets, an attorney, and Alice Taylor Sheets.

What Was Her Early Life Like?

Alice lost her father during the 1918 Spanish flu epidemic, which had a significant impact on her early life.

She was raised by her mother and was encouraged to excel in school and adhere to the Mormon faith.

Where Did Alice Marriott Study?

She attended the University of Utah starting at the age of 16, where she studied Spanish.

Alice graduated with honors in 1927, and she was also a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and Chi Omega sorority.

How Did Alice Meet Her Husband, Bill Marriott?

Alice met Bill Marriott, who was from a farming background and had entrepreneurial skills, at the University of Utah. They courted for over a year and got married on June 9, 1927, in the Salt Lake Temple.

What Role Did Alice Play in the Marriott Business?

Alice initially started as a bookkeeper in the A&W franchise that Bill Marriott started in Washington, D.C.

She played a crucial role in expanding the business by introducing Mexican cuisine to their menu and helping to transform the A&W stand into

The Hot Shoppe, which later became the first drive-in restaurant east of the Mississippi River.

Did Alice Marriott Have Any Children?

Yes, Alice and Bill Marriott had two sons: John Willard Jr., born in 1932, and Richard Edwin. She balanced her role in the business with her family life.

What Were Some Key Business Innovations by Alice Marriott?

Besides introducing Mexican cuisine to the menu, Alice was instrumental in the expansion of the Hot Shoppes and later the transition into the hotel industry, including the establishment of the Twin Bridges Motor Hotel in 1957.

Was Alice Involved in Politics and Community Activities?

Yes, Alice was quite active in Republican politics and community activities.

She was involved with cultural organizations like the Washington Ballet Guild and served on the board of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. She also held roles such as vice-chairman of the Republican National Committee.

What Were Some of Alice Marriott’s Contributions to Philanthropy?

Alice Marriott was known for her philanthropy, especially in education.

She provided endowments and funding for institutions like Brigham Young University and the University of Utah, contributing to the establishment of facilities like the Marriott School of Management and the Alice Sheets Marriott Center for Dance.

When Did Alice Marriott Pass Away?

Alice Sheets Marriott passed away on April 17, 2000, at the age of 92. She left behind a legacy in both business and philanthropy, along with her family, including two sons, eight grandchildren, and twenty-three great-grandchildren.