AHLA Foundation Awards More Than $700,000 in Academic Scholarships to 246 Students Nationwide

Financial Support Represents an Investment in the Future Leaders of the Hospitality Industry

WASHINGTON (Oct. 1, 2025) – AHLA Foundation, the charitable arm of AHLA dedicated to supporting a strong hotel industry workforce, today announced the distribution of more than $710,000 in academic scholarships to 246 students at 64 schools across the country for the 2025–2026 academic year.

This year, nearly 90% of recipients identify as being from underrepresented communities, reinforcing the Foundation’s commitment to creating increased access to rewarding careers in hospitality.

“Our scholarship program is helping to ensure that the next generation of talent has the resources to pursue careers in this incredibly rewarding industry,” said Kevin Carey, President & CEO of AHLA Foundation. “We’ve invested millions of dollars over the last several decades to recruit and support future leaders who will make our industry even stronger.”

The Foundation’s academic scholarships are awarded annually to students enrolled in hospitality management and related degree programs. Award decisions are based on applicants’ academic performance, extracurricular engagement, school/work recommendations and financial need. By providing critical funding support, the AHLA Foundation continues to build bridges for students from diverse backgrounds to pursue education and career advancement in the lodging sector.

Learn more about the AHLA Foundation’s scholarship programs at www.ahlafoundation.org/scholarships/

About AHLA Foundation 

AHLA Foundation, the charitable arm of the American Hotel & Lodging Association, works to support the hotel and lodging industry’s greatest asset – our people. By connecting employees, employers, and their communities, we seek to continuously nurture a culture of professional growth and belonging. When the people who work in our industry thrive, the industry thrives along with them. The Foundation is funded by grants and charitable contributions from generous individuals and organizations who want to support individuals seeking opportunities to thrive in the hotel and lodging industry. Learn more at www.ahlafoundation.org. 

Media Contact: Rahkendra Ice, media@ahla.com