AHLA Foundation Distributes Nearly $1 Million in Hospitality Scholarships

The AHLA Foundation, the philanthropic division of the American Hotel and Lodging Association, has announced it will award nearly $1 million in scholarship funding to students pursuing hospitality programs across the United States.

This year, the Foundation will distribute approximately $944,000 to 369 students enrolled in 88 colleges and universities. Scholarships are offered in two categories: self-nominated, where students apply and compete directly for one of eight scholarships, and school-nominated, where students must attend one of the 67 educational institutions affiliated with the Foundation.

Since its establishment in 1953, the AHLA Foundation has granted over $16 million in academic scholarships, supporting the education of future industry leaders.

AHLA Foundation President Anna Blue expressed the organization’s commitment to supporting individuals pursuing careers in the hotel industry, stating that these scholarships are crucial for the continued growth of the hospitality sector.

The funds for the AHLA Foundation Academic Scholarship Program are sourced from various campaigns, funds, and individual contributions to the AHLA Foundation’s Annual Giving Fund. The Foundation has also launched a portal to streamline the application process, allowing students to apply for multiple scholarships through a single application.

In addition to the regular scholarships, the AHLA Foundation awarded over $30,000 to more than 20 students as part of its incoming Freshmen scholarship pilot program. The pilot program, which involves Frederick Community College, Northampton Community College, and Valencia College, aims to boost interest and enrollment in their respective hospitality programs.

For more information about the AHLA Foundation and its scholarships, visit their website.