Lewis foundation funds UCF hospitality scholarships for Bahamians

Lewis foundation funds UCF hospitality scholarships for Bahamians

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Gaining access to higher education just got more affordable for a few lucky students pursuing degrees in the hospitality industry.

A newly established charitable organization, the Lewis Foundation, has joined forces with Albany and the Tavistock Group to promote the tertiary education of young people in the nation’s number one industry.

“Our goal is to provide financial assistance for three to five first-generation college students, those who would be the first in their immediate family to attend university,” said Andrica Smith-Munroe, the foundation’s spokesperson.

The scholarships will cover the cost of tuition, room and board and textbooks for those enrolled or accepted into the Rosen College of Hospitality Management at the University of Central Florida in Orlando.

“Orlando is the most visited destination in the United States. With UCF’s proximity to top attractions the school provides the perfect backdrop for persons pursing a Bachelor’s in hospitality management,” said Smith-Munroe.

The Lewis Foundation’s mission is to ensure successful applicants receive the financial aid necessary for upward mobility in college and life.

“A four-year scholarship lifts the financial burden off parents, guardians and even the students,” said Smith-Munroe. “Rather than worrying about where the next dollar will come from, students can focus on their grades, fully immerse themselves in new experiences and all that college life has to offer and graduate debt free.”

According to the university’s website, students learn all aspects of hospitality management, including finance, operations, customer service theory, human resources, marketing and communications, in order to build a solid foundation of skills which make them eligible for positions in top hospitality companies worldwide.

UCF will identify Bahamian students eligible for the award based on their academic performance and financial aid requirements. However, Smith-Munroe is requesting that scholarship applicants also email their interest to lewis.scholarship@tavistock.com.

“We are in regular communication with the school as we look to identify the successful applicants,” she said. “Proof of the household’s annual income will be required. The scholarships will be awarded to those most in need.”