About


With a strong presence at the state capitol, the OHLA constantly monitors regulatory and legislative issues, as well as advocating on behalf of the lodging industry both on a state and national level. Your representatives spend time every day speaking to legislators on your behalf about issues facing our industry. For more information, contact James Leewright at 405-942-6462.


Meet Your Representatives

James Leewright
Chief Executive Officer
James leads the association's public policy and advocacy efforts on behalf of the lodging industry and works with the association lobbyist. He coordinates with officers, and the board of directors, and communicates advocacy initiatives with American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA). Also serves as President & CEO of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association. 

Julia Jernigan Smith
Contract Lobbyist
Julia works in cooperation with the President & CEO on industry issues at the state capitol and with state agencies.