Symbolized by the pineapple since American colonial times, hospitality is the key ingredient for students, graduates and educators in Auburn University’s Hospitality Management program. We concentrate on social and ethical responsibility, service excellence and diversity in a practically-oriented and intellectually challenging learning environment.

Since 1992, Auburn’s Hospitality Management program has hosted a formal dinner and silent auction as the program’s signature event and the culmination of a two-semester event management course series. Students enrolled in the catering and special events management class continue this tradition of excellence by planning, organizing, executing and facilitating the annual Hospitality Gala under the direction of Dr. Alecia Douglas, Hospitality Management associate professor.

Led by Hans van der Reijden, founder & CEO of Ithaka Hospitality Partners, experienced hotel professionals from the leadership team of The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center guide students in event management areas such as sales, marketing, catering, culinary and operations to enhance the professional learning opportunity.