La Quinta(R) Fortifies Executive Team

New General Counsel Appointed

Press Release: La Quinta Corporation
January 9, 2002
DALLAS, TX -- La Quinta Corporation announces the newest member of its executive team with the appointment of Sandy Michel as senior vice president -- general counsel.

Ms. Michel will lead the company's legal department and oversee all legal services. She will report to Francis W. ``Butch'' Cash, La Quinta's president and chief executive officer.

``The addition of Sandy Michel reinforces our commitment to having the highest level of professionalism and integrity within our organization,'' said Mr. Cash. ``We are fortunate to be able to recruit a seasoned executive with the proven ability and energy to help accomplish our aggressive growth goals.''

An expert in real estate law, Ms. Michel has more than 20 years experience as general counsel for NYSE-listed corporations and in management positions at domestic and multi-national law firms. Most recently, she served as general counsel and secretary for Sunterra Corporation, where she was responsible for the legal services function of a global, 6,000-employee vacation ownership company. Prior to that position, she served as senior counsel at W.R. Grace & Co., then a Fortune 50 company. She received a J.D. from the University of Miami School of Law and a B.BA. from the University of Miami.

About La Quinta Corporation

Dallas-based La Quinta Corporation (NYSE: LQI), a mid-scale limited-service lodging company, owns, operates or franchises over 300 La Quinta Inns and La Quinta Inn & Suites in 30 states. Today's news release, as well as other information about La Quinta, is available on the Internet at www.laquinta.com .

SOURCE: La Quinta Corporation