The grant, which will be matched by the State of Florida, gives FIU�s School of Hospitality Management a total of $900,000. Including the state matching funds, this is the largest single gift to FIU�s School of Hospitality Management. 

�With this gift the Marriott Foundation recognizes the importance of delivering a quality education to hospitality students, � said Joseph J. West, dean of FIU�s School of Hospitality Management. �We have enjoyed our relationship with the Marriott Foundation over the years and deeply appreciate their support.� 

J.W. Marriott, Jr. has been a long time supporter of education in the field of hospitality and in particular, the FIU School of Hospitality Management. In fact, said the Dean, FIU recognized his achievements with an honorary degree in 1975.

With the expansion of the school�s distance learning program, professors will have the opportunity to deliver education to more venues and continue to meet the ever-increasing needs of students who can�t attend on-campus classes. In addition, the grant will also recognize the importance of delivering a quality collegiate hospitality education to students who are place bound and unable to relocate to Miami to continue their education.  

FIU�S school of Hospitality Management currently offers classes in St. Petersburg, Florida, Luzhern, Swisstzerland and Kingston, Jamaica. There are plans to offer degree programs in two new venues in Florida.  

Since FIU�s School of Hospitality Management is currently able to provide financial aid to only 55 percent of students who apply for assistance, the endowment will help provide needy domestic and international students with additional resources to prepare future industry leaders.

Located at FIU-Biscayne Bay in North Miami, the FIU School of Hospitality Management is widely recognized by industry leaders as one of the nation's top-rated programs. Along with Southern Wine & Spirits of Florida, the School co-presents the South Beach Wine & Food Festival each year.