Former White Lodging executive Deno Yiankes will be inducted into the PNW Alumni Hall of Fame at a gala in May.
Yiankes earned a Bachelor of Science in 1988 from Purdue University Northwest. He formerly was president and CEO of investment and developments with White Lodging, which has headquarters in Merrillville. He also launched the Chimera Hospitality Corp. in 2025.
“We are proud to welcome Deno Yiankes to the distinguished membership of the Purdue University Northwest Alumni Hall of Fame,” said PNW Chancellor Kenneth Holfordin a press release. “His many years of exemplary leadership have included helping grow one of the most reputable national hospitality management firms, as well as significantly giving back to our communities.”
The hall of fame honors industry leaders who have make a distinct impact during their careers, communities and have stayed engaged with PNW.
Yiankes began working at White Lodging as a line cook in 1990 and worked his way up to president and CEO of investments and development. He served in that role from 2006 to 2020. During his tenure, White Lodging had $5 billion in real estate hotel transactions, and grew its portfolio to 90 hotels and restaurants throughout the U.S.
Most recently he started Chimera Hospitality Corp. with his sons, Alex and Eric. The privately held investment and asset management firm focuses on the hotel industry.
He also has supported PNW with philanthropic donations through the Dean and Barbara White Family Foundation, along with personal donations to support students in hospitality.
Yiankes will be honored during PNW’s 10th anniversary gala on May 29 at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana in Gary. Three other alumni also will be honored at the gala.
- Pride of PNW Alumni Award: Ryan Elinkowski, CEO of Meals on Wheels of Northwest Indiana
- PNW Campus Pride Alumni Award: Erin Okamoto Protsman, PNW continuing lecturer of communication and creative arts at PNW since 2013
- Power Onward Emerging Leader Award: Spencer Summers, economic development manager at Northern Indiana Public Service Co.
Learn more about the PNW Alumni Hall of Fame here.
