WHITE PLAINS, NY, May 7, 2008. Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT), one of the world’s largest hotel and leisure companies, announced today the appointment of Thomas E. Clarke, Ph.D to the Company’s Board of Directors. Dr. Clarke, 57, who is President of New Business Ventures for Nike, Inc., was also appointed to the Company’s audit committee and capital committee.

“Tom Clarke brings to Starwood’s board the experience he’s earned as a longtime leader at Nike, where he was President and Chief Operating Officer for six years,” said Frits van Paasschen, Starwood’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “With a Ph.D in biomechanics and many years spent leading Nike's marketing, Tom’s background in global branding and business leadership will be a terrific asset. I've known Tom for more than 12 years as a mentor (and running partner!) and will benefit from his advice."

Dr. Clarke has spent his entire professional career with Nike, joining the company in 1980, and has held a number of key positions including Director of Research and Development, Vice President of Marketing and General Manager of the Nike Brand. During his tenure as President and Chief Operating Officer from 1994-2000, Nike more than doubled its size to over $9 billion.

Currently serving on the Board of Directors of Newell Rubbermaid, Dr. Clarke also served on Nike’s Board from 1994 to 2004. Dr. Clarke earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the State University of New York at Albany, a Masters of Science in Biomechanics from the University of Florida and a Ph.D in Biomechanics from Pennsylvania State University.