In the fullness of one’s self-expression is one’s self-discovery. Until a person ventures into the unlimited domain of the mind, and learns to freely express themselves, such a person can never truly be free to understand themselves. So then, life’s meaning can be summated by an unyielding pursuit of the unknown and the tender connection between mind and marrow.

The world of hospitality, much like the journey of self-discovery, is rarely straightforward. It’s a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, and that’s precisely what makes it so exciting.

Recently, I had the privilege of attending the Hunter Hotel Investment Conference, an experience made possible by the generous sponsorship of the American Hotel & Lodging Association Foundation (AHLA Foundation). To Kimberly Guy, Ghalilhea Calderon, Jennifer Fugolo, Rosanna Miaetta, and Kevin Carey – thank you for your investment in creating meaningful and memorable educational opportunities. Your support and advocacy are invaluable.

This conference, and others like it, serve as a crucial intersection between industry titans and the eager minds of the next generation. It’s a space where we can collectively ponder the future of hospitality, a future that hinges on our ability to simplify its essence and creatively solve new, people-centric problems.

So, what is hospitality, really? Is it just about beds and room service? I argue it’s so much more. It’s about creating an experience, a connection. It’s about anticipating needs, exceeding expectations, and leaving a lasting positive impression. To quote Will Guidara, and as illustrated in the Netflix series “Seven Days Out: Eleven Madison Park,” it requires a level of “unreasonable hospitality,” an almost obsessive attention to detail to truly elevate the customer experience.

This brings me to a critical question for all the current undergraduate and graduate students out there: What will your contribution be to the future of this industry? The time for passive observation is over. The industry needs your fresh perspectives, your innovative ideas, and your energy now.

The Hunter Hotel Investment Conference offered some compelling food for thought. The AI panel, for instance, highlighted that AI isn’t a looming threat, but rather a functional tool. It enhances job performance, improves productivity by streamlining tasks, and boosts efficiency. Every industry-leading company in hospitality is actively developing AI adoption strategies. Imagine the possibilities! Students and faculty can even leverage AI to refine resumes and prepare tailored interview questions, or conduct in-depth research on various subjects.

Then there was Molly Bloom’s segment, a powerful reminder to “bet on yourself.” Her story, while unique, resonates with the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels the best of hospitality. It takes courage, resilience, and a willingness to take calculated risks to innovate and create something truly exceptional.

Beyond the technology and the strategy, there’s something even more fundamental: passion. Industry leaders like Mitch Patel of Vision Hospitality, Anna Blue (former AHLA Foundation President), and Richard Lou of Palette Hotels, all emphasized this core ingredient. If you’re not passionate about serving people, you’re in the wrong industry. Perhaps it’s time to consider passion as a key performance indicator, a driving force that ultimately leads to both exceptional service and profitability.

This brings us to a crucial point: How do we, as an industry, cultivate this passion and channel it into meaningful action? How do we bridge the gap between academia and the real-world demands of hospitality?

Here are some questions to ponder:

• How can universities and industry partners forge stronger, more proactive collaborations?
• What innovative mentorship programs can we create to guide and inspire the next generation?
• How can we foster a culture of experimentation and calculated risk-taking within hospitality organizations?
• Can we redefine traditional metrics of success to incorporate passion, empathy, and genuine human connection?

To the students reading this: your journey starts now. Get involved! Reach out to your career centers about industry conferences. Networking doesn’t have to be a rigid affair – have fun, be yourself, and build genuine connections. Discover your passion and seek opportunities to add value.

And to the industry leaders and university faculty: the future of hospitality is in your hands. Foster environments that bridge the gap between corporate and college. Invest in the next generation. Create opportunities for mentorship and collaboration.

The future of hospitality is not just about adapting to change; it’s about shaping it. It’s about creating a more innovative, inclusive, and people-centered industry. It’s a challenge, yes, but it’s also an incredible opportunity. Let’s embrace it together.

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