Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Scholarship Initiative

The Destinations International Foundation is proud to present the HBCU Scholarship in commitment to fostering a dynamic future for the tourism industry. This program is designed to support students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and who aspire to careers in hospitality and tourism management.
About the Scholarship
Recognizing the importance of access and opportunity for education and career advancement, the Destinations International Foundation HBCU Scholarship provides:
- $8,000 in tuition assistance to alleviate financial burdens and support academic pursuits.
- Access to professional development opportunities, including mentorship programs and industry networking events.
- Participation in the Destinations International Annual Convention, offering immersive experiences to connect with industry leaders and peers.
This holistic approach ensures that scholars are not only financially supported but also equipped with the tools, knowledge, and connections necessary for long-term success in the tourism industry. Read about the impact of this scholarship here.

Source: The US News and World Report
Industry Engagement: A Collaborative Effort
The success of the Destinations International HBCU Scholarship is amplified through active involvement from destination organizations, industry partners and academic institutions. We encourage:
- Destination organizations to collaborate with local HBCUs and other institutions to support student awareness and interest in tourism as a career path.
- Industry partners to offer sponsorships, mentorship and in-kind contributions to facilitate scholars' participation in the Annual Convention.
- Academic institutions to promote the scholarship among eligible students and integrate industry insights into their curricula.
This collaborative approach aligns with the findings of Destinations International’s Industry Brief on Workforce Development and Retention, which highlights the critical need for expanded talent pipelines and pathways into the industry. By connecting students to opportunities early and intentionally, we’re addressing workforce challenges while cultivating the next generation of leaders.
Get Involved with the Program
Funding Goal
Through the generosity of our donors, we have raised over $225,000 spanning a three-year commitment.
Join us in supporting this important initiative, to empower and elevate the future leaders of our industry. Suggested pledge amounts are provided, however we welcome any amount in support of our next generation of talent.
Suggested pledge amounts for individuals: $500/year for 3 years
Suggested pledge amounts for organizations: $5,000/year for 3 years
Impact of the Program
In its second year, the Destinations International Foundation's HBCU Scholarship Program continues to positively impact future industry professionals.
2025 Annual Convention Sponsors





Individual Pledges
Elliott Ferguson Julie Coker Melvin Tennant Bennish Brown Cleo Battle Monica Smith Cheryl Richards Connie Kinnard Marie Sueing Charles Jeffers George Cooley Patricia Washington James Jessie Angela Nelson Rickey Thigpen Dan Williams Al Hutchinson Greg DeShields Paul Ouimet Barbara Karasek Elliott Wiley |
Sonya Bradley Timothy Bush Sophia Hyder Hock Brad Dean Maura Gast Kristin McGrath Gretchen Hall Adam Burke Mia Blom Jason Outman Tammy Blount-Canavan Katherine O'Donnell David Whitaker John Percy Fred Dixon Bill Geist Ellie Westman Chin Jeanice Baker Steve Paganelli Craig Compagnone Zeek Coleman |
Chris Moyer Kasey Summerville Santiago Corrada Sara Hamlin Leonard Hoops Brandy Evans Dustin Arnheim Camila Clark Andrew Ortale Christine Susa Ryan George Gathan Borden Michael Donilon Thomas Penny Tim James Geoff Freeman Greg O'Dell Michelle Mason Devin Heath Kitty Ratcliffe Kevin Carr |