A seed that was planted months ago came to fruition Monday when 35 students who participated in the St. Thomas – St. John Hotel & Tourism Association's Hospitality Management Training program received certificates of completion for the six-week course.
The broad based program was developed in concert with the prestigious Johnson and Wales University and has been in the works for a long time.
The students completed courses in Introduction to Management, Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication and Coaching Skills for Managers.
Dr. Solomon Kabuka, director of Graduate and Business Studies at the University of the Virgin Islands, in giving the graduation message said, "It is critical to maintain a well-trained work force while realizing that everyone can have a positive or negative impact on our visitors when they come to the territory. The university is committed to providing human resources needs in any way the can."
Donald McGregor, president of Johnson and Wales' Florida campus said in a release from the Hotel Association, "Look out the window, is there any question why tourism is your number one industry? Now, think about all the other competition beyond this window. Your difference must come from education and new insight and you are already on the right track."
Richard Doumeng, president of the Hotel Association said he would like to see a collaboration between the government, other private sector businesses and the University of the Virgin Islands on future efforts.