RELEASE: AHLA Foundation Awards More Than $800,000 in Academic Scholarships to 256 Students Nationwide
AHLA Foundation Commits $817,000 to Hospitality Students for 2026-27
The AHLA Foundation has allocated more than $817,000 in scholarships to 256 students pursuing hospitality management and related degrees for the 2026-27 academic year.
The foundation, the charitable affiliate of the American Hotel & Lodging Association, said recipients are enrolled at 78 colleges and universities nationwide. The group said 52 of those institutions are affiliated with AHLA, while 26 are not.
Nearly 95% of the scholarship recipients come from historically underrepresented communities, according to the foundation.
Awards are determined using academic achievement, extracurricular participation, recommendations from school or work, and financial need. The funds are intended to help students cover education-related expenses as they prepare for careers in hotels and lodging.
Kevin Carey, president and chief executive of the AHLA Foundation, said the scholarships are intended to expand access to education, industry experience and career opportunities for prospective hospitality professionals.
One recipient, University of Alabama student Lydia Rengering, said the award would reduce tuition and other education costs, allowing her to focus on studies and hands-on hospitality experience.
The AHLA Foundation is funded through grants and charitable contributions and supports workforce-development programs for the hotel and lodging industry.