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.

Black graduates owe an average of $25,000 more in student loans than white college graduates.
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.  

Learn About the Impact of the Program

2025 HBCU Scholarship Recipients

Courtney Stanback

Morris Brown College

Emarie McNair

Delaware State University

Emma Crowe

Delaware State University

Jazmen C. Wilkerson

Morgan State University

John James

Morgan State University

Kamryn Taylor-Corley

Delaware State University

Kimberly Berduo-Velasquez

Delaware State University

Nancy Villalta

The University of the District of Columbia

Nicolette Conserve

Morgan State University

NyJaiha DeBourg

Morgan State University

Tyra Dunnaway

Bethune Cookman University
2024 HBCU Scholarship Recipients

Cassandre Bossicot

Bethune-Cookman University

Celine Trombi

Delaware State University

Christian Nettles

North Carolina Central University

Hannah Weiss

Delaware State University

Justin Simon

Morgan State University

Kajal Ghising

University of Maryland, Eastern Shore

Kaniyah Williams Bailey

Delaware State University

Ly Bao Tran Phan

University of Maryland, Eastern Shore

Mya Mendoza

Morgan State University
2023 HBCU Scholarship Recipients

Adenicka Blake

North Carolina Central University

Damian Grooms

Livingstone College

Shanicka Taylor

Virginia State University

Jamesha Williams

Virginia State University

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