With over 30 years in the hospitality industry, Geller told students of his humble beginnings and how to never regret any decision. �You will find yourself at crossroads throughout your life as I have,� said Geller. �I wasn�t particularly smart or wealthy, but I knew enough to know when I was at a crossroads and I was smart enough not to look back.�

Geller also spoke to students about the current state of the hospitality industry. �It�s bad now, but lots of wonderful things will happen,� he said.  �Many chains are re-engineering and rethinking every aspect of what they do, and that�s good. You are heading out into a field that is the fastest-growing industry in the world - an industry that desperately needs your educated minds. There has never been a better time to go out into the world. Young people make revolution and you have a wonderful future in a wonderful business.�

In May 1997, Geller become the CEO of Strategic Hotel Capital, the multinational organization specializing in ownership and intensive value added asset management services of first class and luxury lodging real estate. He was also the founder and chairman of Geller & Company, a real estate, gaming, tourism and lodging advisory company. He has been a development consultant for major chains including Hyatt, Marriott and Holiday Inn.

�Our students especially benefited from hearing Laurence Geller speak,� said Dick Brush, Dean of The Hospitality College. �His message was both realistic concerning the current state of the industry and optimistic about future prospects. Most importantly, he inspired the students to work hard, think creatively and be a force for change.� 

The Distinguished Visiting Professor (DVP) program draws top executives from both the hospitality and business fields to Johnson & Wales to share their knowledge with students. During Geller�s visit, Victoria Spence, a sophomore majoring in hotel restaurant management, was awarded a Distinguished Visiting Professor scholarship from Johnson & Wales.

The Hospitality College at Johnson & Wales - America�s Career University® - boasts the largest enrollment nationally of students preparing for careers in international hotel and tourism management, hotel management, food and beverage management, sports/entertainment/event management and travel-tourism management. Students are currently enrolled in undergraduate and graduate degree programs in hospitality.