Marriott Rewards - reward stay - Does it count towards renewal?

Searched the Marriott website and here with no luck. Does a reward stay at a Marriott earn credit towards elite status? Hilton does this, curious if Marriott does this too?

I have an unused free night certificate that expires 12/31, but need all my stays through 12/31 to count towards re-upping at gold level.

Does a reward stay at a Marriott earn credit towards elite status?No.

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/marriott-rewards/1012138-nights-credited-when-staying-points.html

Merci!