$363K+ Raised to Support UH Mānoa Travel & Hospitality Leaders

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s Shidler College of Business School of Travel Industry Management (TIM) hosted its twenty fourth annual Celebrate a Legacy in Tourism gala on March 31 on the ʻAlohilani Resort Waikīkī Beach, elevating greater than $363,000 to assist scholar scholarships and key initiatives. The fundraiser befell in the course of the college’s sixtieth anniversary 12 months, marking six many years of getting ready leaders who’re shaping Hawaiʻi’s customer trade and the worldwide journey economic system.

Since its 2019 reintegration with Shidler College, the college has celebrated outstanding successes: introducing greater than $1.5 million in new scholar scholarships, practically doubled college measurement, creating six endowed fellowships and professorships, and launching the TIM PhD program. Rising world and nationwide rankings, a 4.5% improve in undergraduate enrollment from 2024 to 2025, and greater than $560,000 in scholarships awarded in 2025–26 mirror the college’s rising impression. Additionally, over 90% of graduates safe employment or pursue graduate research inside three months of commencement.   

“As we celebrate 60 years of the TIM School, this event reflects the strong partnership between our students and the industry they will soon lead,” stated Vance Roley, dean of the Shidler College of Business and First Hawaiian Bank Chair of Leadership and Management. 

At the gala, the 2026 Legacy in Tourism Award was offered to Elliot Mills (BBA ’93), CEO and managing associate of Hawaiʻi Hospitality Group, in recognition of his management and workforce growth efforts. Kylie Matsuda Lum (BS ’01) was inducted into the TIM Alumni Hall of Honor for increasing agritourism and connecting guests to native tradition, whereas ClimbHI, a nonprofit serving to college students discover profession pathways, acquired the distinguished service award. 

Presenting sponsors included Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa and Bank of Hawaii. Contributing sponsors included Central Pacific Bank, First Hawaiian Bank, Kamehameha Schools, and Marriott International, with Daniel Okay. Hilton as a platinum sponsor. Hawaiʻi Business Magazine returned because the media associate. 

To be taught extra or assist the TIM School and Shidler College of Business, contact Jennifer Lieu, director of growth, at [email protected]