BETHESDA, MD – November 28, 2016 – RLJ Lodging Trust (the “Company”) (NYSE: RLJ) today announced the election of Arthur (“Art”) Collins as a new member to its Board of Trustees. Mr. Collins’ appointment became effective November 21, 2016, increasing the size of the Company’s board from six to seven members.

“We are excited to have Art join our board,” commented Ross H. Bierkan, President and Chief Executive Officer. “In addition to his extensive board experience, Art brings decades of executive experience advising companies across a multitude of industries, which makes him a valuable addition to our board.”

Mr. Collins is the Managing Partner of theGROUP, a government relations and public affairs consulting firm, specializing in providing strategic policy advice to global corporations. Prior to this, Mr. Collins was Chairman and CEO of Public Private Partnership, Inc. Mr. Collins’ significant experience includes serving on the board of several distinguished organizations, including the Brookings Institution and the Meridian International Center.

About theGROUP

theGROUP is a Washington, D.C.-based strategy, policy and communications consulting firm with deep experience at the highest levels of government, politics, and business. theGROUP’s team brings years of proven leadership to craft winning engagement strategies, overcome crises, and create diverse conversations that change outcomes for our clients. More information can be found at http://thegroupdc.com/.