Albuquerque, NM (October 20, 2015) – New Mexico Hospitality Association (NMHA), formerly Tourism Association of New Mexico and New Mexico Lodgers Association, is pleased to announce its partnership with Albuquerque Community Foundation in establishing an endowed scholarship fund to support the tourism industry's growing workforce. The Hospitality and Tourism Scholarship Fund will contribute to the success of countless students pursuing a career in one of New Mexico's fastest growing industries, tourism.
"Our goal is to raise $120,000 over the next three years to sustain five $1,000 scholarship opportunities to deserving students with a passion for hospitality and tourism in New Mexico," said Jen Schroer, President/CEO of New Mexico Hospitality Association.
One of the funding sources for the endowed scholarship fund is the inaugural Top HAT Awards Gala – Rising Stars of New Mexico TRUE on November 10, 2015 at Sheraton Albuquerque Uptown. This special occasion is to celebrate the people who made 2014 a record breaking year for tourism and to kick off the Hospitality and Tourism Scholarship Fund. Cheryl Jameson, New Mexico Magazine's contributing culinary editor, is the master of ceremonies and over two hundred and fifty hoteliers, attractions and business owners are expected to attend the event.
"The continued economic success of tourism is directly related to New Mexico having an exceptional workforce that specializes in capturing the attention of venturesome travelers and delivering adventures steeped in culture," stated Ed Pulsifer, Director of Sales for La Fonda on the Plaza and Board Chair for NMHA. "By providing a scholarship fund, we want to encourage the brightest and best students to choose tourism as a viable career."
The Top HAT Awards Gala will recognize the tourism workforce, which represents one in 12 New Mexico jobs. Thirteen different awards will be presented throughout the evening. Event proceeds go to the newly established Hospitality and Tourism Scholarship Fund powered by the Albuquerque Community Foundation.
"The Albuquerque Community Foundation is honored to have the New Mexico Hospitality Association become the newest member of our "Philanthropy Central" group – 72 local nonprofit agencies with 102 endowment funds at the Foundation", said Randy Royster, President and CEO. "With one out of twelve jobs in New Mexico being in the hospitality and tourism industry, the Association is taking a leadership role in workforce development by providing scholarships for students working toward a career in the industry".