The Delta Air Lines Foundation has announced a significant investment of $5 million towards the University of Georgia’s Hospitality and Food Industry Management (HFIM) program. This program operates within the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. Delta, a leader in the hospitality and travel sector, aims to enhance community engagement and improve the student experience at UGA, creating a lasting impact on the industry.
The generous funding will initiate renovations at the Georgia Center for Continuing Education and Hotel, a key facility for HFIM students. The renovation plans include new teaching facilities dedicated to event management, culinary arts, and hotel operations. Once completed, the updated center will feature state-of-the-art labs, including a fully functional teaching kitchen, an event management lab, and a beverage management lab.
President Jere W. Morehead acknowledged Delta’s ongoing partnership with the university, stating, “Delta has long been a critical partner of the University of Georgia, and their impact can be felt in every corner of our campus.” He expressed gratitude for Delta’s support, emphasizing how it will enhance hands-on learning opportunities for students engaged in the HFIM program.
The HFIM program at UGA has gained national recognition, currently ranking #2 for public colleges offering hospitality majors. Additionally, it is experiencing rapid growth, with a remarkable 335% increase in enrollment since 2019. The program’s goal is to double its enrollment over the next five years, addressing the rising demand for skilled professionals in the hospitality sector.
Brent Miller, a student in the HFIM program and an ambassador for the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, shared his personal insights about the program’s structure. “As a student who wants to own a restaurant one day, this program is preparing me with every class that I’ve taken,” Miller remarked. He praised the professors for their exceptional ability to communicate industry expectations as well as essential research and performance metrics.
Another HFIM student, Georgia Gordon, echoed Miller’s sentiments and highlighted the program’s commitment to community and leadership development. “The hospitality program has seen incredible growth since 2019, and, as students, we couldn’t be prouder,
image source from：news
