Mike Leven is the chairman and chief executive officer of Georgia Aquarium. He previously served as the CEO of the Aquarium from 2008 to 2009 before leaving for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to lead Las Vegas Sands Corporation as President and Chief Operating Officer. He also served as its Secretary since June 2010.

Mr. Leven has also served as the Vice-Chairman of The Marcus Foundation, a philanthropic organization founded by Bernie Marcus, co-founder of The Home Depot, Inc. He was previously the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of US Franchise Systems, Inc. Prior to forming USFS in 1995, he was president and chief operating officer of Holiday Inn Worldwide. Mr. Leven is a co-founder of the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) which has over 19,000 members owning more than 40,000 hotels. He serves on the boards of The Marcus Foundation; AEPi Fraternity Foundation; Birthright Israel Foundation; Board of Advisors of Prager University; HERSHA Hospitality Trust; Independent Women’s Voice; Turning Point USA Board of Advisors and SESTRA Group.

Mr. Leven graduated from Boston Latin School and holds a Bachelor of Arts from Tufts University and a Master of Science from Boston University. He also holds an Honorary Doctorate from The Johnson & Wales University and College of Hospitality and Tourism Management of Niagara University.