Fort Lauderdale, FL – October 13, 2024 – The South Florida chapter of the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) is proud to announce the 2024 recipients of the prestigious Dr. Peter Ricci Scholarship. This scholarship, awarded annually, supports exceptional students pursuing degrees in hospitality management and related fields at colleges and universities in South Florida.

This year’s scholarship recipients are:

• Maria Martinez – Florida International University (FIU)
• Victoria Nicora – Florida International University (FIU)
• Giuseppe Barioli – Florida Atlantic University (FAU)
• Joyce Kessler – Lynn University
• Kara Otten – Florida Atlantic University (FAU) 

The Dr. Peter Ricci Scholarship honors the legacy of Dr. Ricci’s contributions to the field of hospitality education and the industry as a whole. Each fall, the South Florida chapter of HSMAI offers scholarships to deserving students pursuing a career in hospitality sales, marketing, revenue optimization, or similar areas.

Eligibility and Award Process
Eligible students must be enrolled full-time in a hospitality or related degree program at a South Florida college or university. They are required to demonstrate a strong commitment to pursuing a career in the hospitality industry, specifically in the niche areas of sales, marketing, or revenue optimization. The recipients are chosen based on their academic performance, career aspirations, and involvement in the hospitality community.

The scholarships will be officially awarded at the HSMAI South Florida Gala, a premier event celebrating excellence in hospitality, on October 29, 2024, at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa. Recipients are expected to attend the event in person to accept their awards.