Creating generational wealth is often discussed, but college students often face challenges in accessing mentorship, coaching, and opportunities for growth. This summer, select business and tourism & hospitality management students were privileged to participate in the 28th Annual International African American Hotel Ownership & Investment Summit & Trade Show Conference in Miami, Florida. This unique conference provided academic and professional development sessions featuring Desmond Alufohai, Protocol & International Affairs, Miami-Dade Aviation Department, Joseph Gillin Senior Market Manager, Expedia Group, Andrew Wobensmith, Director of Data and Research, GMCVB, and Rachael Rothman Hotel Research and Data Analytics, CBRE covering asset management and hotel ownership, igniting a spark of inspiration for their future careers.
Students from Cornell University, the University of The Bahamas, Temple University School of Sport Tourism and Hospitality Management, and Montgomery County Community College were represented at the National Association of Black Hotel Owners, Operators, and Developers Conference. NABHOOD, with its mission to create hotel ownership opportunities and partnerships with hotel firms like Marriott Hotels, Wyndham Hotels, Hilton Hotels, and IHG Hotels, is a key player in increasing African American representation in hotel ownership, management, and development. Andy Ingraham, the founder and president of NABHOOD and the tourism marketing agency, Horizon’s International Group Inc., is leading this positive change in the industry.
Accompanying University of The Bahamas students to NABHOOD for almost twenty years has always been and continues to be an enlightening yet fulfilling experience. The opportunity afforded students to network, gain industry experience and exposure in real time, and the ability to speak with owners, operators, developers, are second to none. Ultimately, the realization of seeing and hearing from those who resemble them is certainly a positive influence on the professional trajectory of the students. Many of our former student participants are currently employed in top-tier positions in the industry as they navigate their paths into hotel ownership and/or investments. I’m desirous of someday seeing those hopes and dreams fulfilled. Special thanks to everyone for the roles they continue to play in the successful outcome of the NABHOOD Student Program.
Dr. Ruth E. Gardiner, Associate Professor – College of Tourism, Hospitality, Culinary Arts & Leisure Management, University of The Bahamas
The conference provided resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy to support African American individuals and businesses in the hotel industry, aiming to promote diversity and inclusion. During the conference, students attended workshops on hotel logistics, financial strategies, capital raising for real estate purchases, and hotel development. They also had the chance to engage with such industry leaders as Leslie D. Hale, President/CEO of RLJ Lodging Trust, Ken Fearn, Managing Partner Integrated Capital, LLC., and R. Donahue Peebles, Founder, Chairman, and CEO, of The Peebles Corp. through general sessions, small group and one-on-one conversations, gaining valuable mentorship and logistical training in hotel ownership and development.
Accessing these leaders, logistical training, understanding how to navigate complex commercial real estate deals, securing capital for the development, and owning a hotel were key knowledge outcomes that students could connect and integrate into the case study competition.
Attending the NABHOOD conference was a transformative experience, opening my eyes to the vast possibilities within hotel ownership and commercial real estate. The networking opportunities were invaluable, as I connected with industry leaders and entrepreneurs eager to speak with me and the students. They provided firsthand insights into the industry. The college student component of the conference was amazing, specifically, the student’s case study presentations, which showcased the real-world application of their knowledge and highlighted the potential for our high school students to engage similarly in the future.
Mariska Bogle, Director, Tourism & Hospitality Management – Philadelphia Academies Inc.
This year’s student program uniquely featured a dynamic, comprehensive Hotel Development Case Study Competition. The project learning objective is to encourage students to engage in the creative process of conceptualizing and designing a hotel.
Students will explore various aspects of hotel management, design, and guest experience to develop a comprehensive plan for a dream hotel. Key academic elements include Strategy, feasibility, and an industry-relevant approach; Creativity, a unique and captivating design; Use of Resources, NABHOOD industry professionals’ supplied materials and exhibitors; and Overall Group Presentation: teamwork, preparation, and organization of materials.
The conference was a perfect learning lab for a dynamic, interactive space designed to enhance educational experiences by providing hands-on, practical learning opportunities. It typically focuses on experiential learning, where students or participants engage in activities that allow them to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world or simulated context.
This has been an amazing opportunity for our students. What was most impressive was the students’ access to some of the most influential professionals in the hospitality industry. They are sitting in the same space and can engage in meaningful conversations with the best hoteliers, developers, entrepreneurs, and other leaders in the industry. The Hotel Development Project built into the student conference experience is a tremendous exercise that helps students build connections with other students and allows them to expand their knowledge about the various aspects of hotel development. They get to flex their “creative and analytical” muscles while seeking advice and guidance from professionals involved in every aspect of the hotel business. Outstanding!
Dr. Debra Blair, Professor of Instruction, Director of Organizational Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion – Temple University School of Sport Tourism and Hospitality Management
This methodology was launched during the 28th Annual International African American Hotel Ownership & Investment Summit & Trade Show. Our Business Lab approach used case studies and simulations, market research, financial analysis, and business strategy development.
Benefits of a Learning Lab
- Enhanced Understanding: By applying concepts in a practical setting, participants gain a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the material.
- Skill Development: Participants develop practical skills and problem-solving abilities directly applicable to real-world situations.
- Increased Engagement: The interactive nature of learning labs fosters greater engagement and motivation among participants.
- Collaborative Learning: Opportunities for teamwork and collaboration help build communication and interpersonal skills.
Congratulations to the NABHOOD student education committee! The case study project demonstrated hard work and dedication to enhancing student engagement. To complement the NABHOOD presenters, the case study provided real-time knowledge that students could implement. Intentionality is everything!
Victor B. Younger, M.Ed, Director of Diversity and Inclusion Office of Student Services
The Nolan School of Hotel Administration SC Johnson College of Business
Students were given the assignment to create a 5-slide presentation lasting 10 minutes over the course of three days. The slides must cover the hotel concept and its location and brand, food and beverage offerings, hospitality financial key performance indicators, and unique amenities.
Three teams were formed, with each team member taking on a specific role: Hotel Developer, Designer, Food & Beverage Lead, Rooms Lead, Revenue Management Lead, and General Manager.
Five judges assessed different aspects of the students’ Hotel Development Case Study Competition, such as presentation quality, research depth, business viability, design, operational planning, and team collaboration. They used a clear rubric or set of criteria to score the teams and provided constructive feedback to help the students develop and enhance their skills in hospitality management.
The Winner: THE STAGE by Marriott
The Stage by Marriott is a performance and arts-based hotel located in Las Vegas. It features themed levels designed for various age groups and offers a range of amenities, including private karaoke rooms, artist meet-and-greet events, family-friendly activities, classic comedy shows, and innovative art galleries.
The hotel caters to diverse markets and age ranges, ensuring that it is family-friendly. It also provides opportunities for local artists to perform. Additionally, The Stage by Marriott has formed partnerships with organizations such as MUSE (Musicians United for Social Equity) and MIC (Music Inclusion Coalition) and connections with various art and music company recruiters.
This year’s NABHOOD Conference Student Program was educationally rewarding. I expanded my knowledge base of what it takes to finance, design, and open a real-life hotel with the case study allowing an opportunity to build relationships with so many amazing students and introduce the idea personally for a career in hotel development.
Alexandra Roman-Cordero (Tourism & Hospitality Management major Montgomery County Community College)
Attending the National Association of Black Hotel Owners, Operators, and Developers (NABHOOD) conference is a great opportunity for students to connect with potential business partners in the hospitality industry. This event brings together industry leaders, professionals, and emerging talent, providing an ideal environment for networking and collaboration.
Students can interact with experienced hotel owners, operators, and developers, gaining valuable insights into the industry and building meaningful connections. Through participation in workshops, panel discussions, and networking events, students can showcase their skills, share their ideas, and demonstrate their passion for the hospitality field.
Additionally, the NABHOOD conference promotes mentorship opportunities, allowing students to learn from industry veterans who can provide guidance and support as they navigate their career paths. These interactions help students expand their knowledge of the hospitality sector and create potential for internships, job opportunities, and collaborative projects.
In summary, the NABHOOD conference is a valuable platform for students to meet potential business partners, expand their professional networks, and establish a foundation for successful careers in hospitality.
See you at the 29th Annual International African American Hotel Ownership & Investment Summit & Trade Show in July 2025 and the Student Hotel Development Case Study Competition.