ORLANDO, Fla., May 1998�The Educational Institute of the American Hotel & Motel Association has recognized the academic and industry accomplishments of Douglas Tan, vice president, Grand Seasons Hotel, Subic Bay, the Philippines.  Tan received the Outstanding Distance Learning Student at the �Stars of the Industry� luncheon held during the AH&MA�s Annual Convention and Leadership Forum in Reno, Nev., this April.

Tan began his career in the hotel industry as a food and beverage apprentice after completing two programs at the Singapore Hotel Catering School.  After accepting the position of executive assistant manager at the Grand Seasons Hotel in Subic Bay, he began taking Distance Learning courses through the Educational Institute.
Tan, now a hotel vice president, completed 12 courses to earn the Diploma in Hospitality Management in only two years, half the time allotted to complete the program.  Because of his coursework, Tan implemented processes that have increased guest security and safety, improved employee working conditions, and reduced costs at his property.

�The Diploma in Hospitality Management is definitely the foundation of my professionalism at work,� said Tan, who has now set his sights on earning the prestigious Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) designation.

The Outstanding Distance Learning Student Award is presented annually to one student in EI�s Distance Learning program that has displayed high academic standards, outstanding on-the-job accomplishments, and a high degree of industry involvement.

Established in 1953 as a nonprofit educational foundation of the AH&MA, the Educational Institute has become the hospitality industry�s first source for organizational development and training, leading hospitality operations through today�s changing business environment.