WELCOME TO
The Future of Hospitality Education
"As Dean of the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, it is my honor to share with you the bold, transformative vision that will guide us toward 2030. Together, we are setting a course to redefine hospitality education and establish the Chaplin School as a global benchmark for experiential learning and expertise."
—Michael Cheng, FIU Chaplin School Dean
Our Vision and Mission
By 2030, we aim to be recognized as one of the top three hospitality schools in the nation—a reflection of our unwavering commitment to our vision: to set the global standard for experiential education and expertise in hospitality. This vision is grounded in our mission: transforming the world through experiential hospitality education.
This ambitious goal underscores the dedication of our students, alumni, faculty, and industry partners. It is a pledge to empower future leaders in hospitality and tourism, equipping them to excel in an increasingly connected global landscape.
The Strategic Roadmap: Pioneering Excellence
Our strategic roadmap, as outlined in the Chaplin School’s 2030 Strategy Map, is built on actionable strategies developed through collaboration and innovation. It focuses on:
- Enhancing the Student Experience
- Increasing Industry Partnerships
- Expanding Global Reach
At its core, the roadmap is powered by three Strategic Opportunities:
- Entrepreneurship
- Technology & AI
- The Cruise Industry
These opportunities uniquely position us to lead the way in shaping the future of hospitality education.
The Foundation of Our Success
Our vision is supported by:
- Organizational Capacity: Developing the skills of our students, faculty, and staff through cutting-edge facilities and professional development opportunities. Every initiative is aligned with our mission to ensure operational excellence.
- Strategic Pillars:
- Empowering Culture: Creating an inclusive environment that reflects FIU’s commitment to belonging and engagement.
- Global Thought Leadership: Driving international collaboration and borderless research in hospitality.
- Impactful Experiences: Offering transformative opportunities that resonate with the "FIU Experience."
- Lifelong Learning: Building enduring pathways for alumni, communities, and industry partners to collaborate and lead.
Miami is Our Classroom
The Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University (FIU) is ranked in the Top 1%—6th in the U.S. and 31st in the world—among the best public universities for hospitality & tourism management. We are the top hospitality program in Miami and the only dedicated hospitality program located in the premier global destination of Miami, Florida.
Gratitude to Our Alumni and Industry Partners
We extend our deepest gratitude to our alumni and industry partners whose guidance and support have been instrumental in shaping this vision. Your insights ensure our strategy aligns seamlessly with the evolving needs of the hospitality industry. Together, we are redefining what it means to lead in this field. We invite you to engage with your alma mater and your global alumni network, join us at alumni industry events and keep up to date with what’s new at the Chaplin School by staying connected.
Soaring to the Top of Public Universities
A Future Defined by Excellence
This journey is about more than reaching a Top 3 ranking; it is about pioneering a new era in hospitality education and making a lasting global impact. By harnessing our unique position in Miami—the world’s hospitality hub—and strengthening our connections with industry leaders, we are shaping a legacy of innovation, leadership, and excellence. The best is yet to come. We invite you to join us in this exciting future. Together, we are not just reaching for the stars—we are bringing them to FIU. Thank you for your unwavering belief in our vision. The Chaplin School’s future shines bright, thanks to partners, alumni, and champions like you.