New Hospitality School at College of Charleston Elevates Tourism Education in South Carolina

11eko urtarrilaren 2026an argitaratua

The College of Charleston has taken great initiatives towards the advancement of Charleston’s tourism industry and the University with the establishment of its first-ever named school, The Michael and Amy Bennett School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. With this, the College of Charleston has made its first pioneering step towards the advancement of hospitality education.

The Bennett’s gift was made public during a ceremony held on January 9, 2026, at the famous Hotel Bennett on King Street, which is a flagship location for Bennett Hospitality. Michael and Amy Bennett are the hospitalitiy entrepreneurs behind Bennett Hospitality, which includes the Hotel Bennett in Charleston and a hospitality collection of over 25 properties in South Carolina, Georgia, and Montana.

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The establishment of this school underpins Charleston’s longstanding reputation as a prime destination for hospitality and tourism. By investing in this academic program, the Bennetts are contributing to the future of an industry that is central to Charleston’s economy. The school will operate within the College’s School of Business, positioning itself at the intersection of education, business, and tourism.

Charleston’s exceptional hospitality and tourism legacy offers students a vibrant and real-world learning environment. With a tradition of top-tier hospitality and world-class resources, the new school will play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of tourism leaders.

Building a Premier Hospitality Leadership Pipeline

The Michael and Amy Bennett School of Hospitality and Tourism Management will provide students with hands-on experience, fostering future leaders in the industry. Through deepening engagement with executives, attracting distinguished faculty, and enhancing educational resources, the program aims to provide a robust framework for leadership in hospitality management.

This initiative also acknowledges the essential role of Charleston as a living laboratory for students, offering access to the city’s thriving hospitality and tourism sectors. The city’s diverse opportunities for internships, industry networking, and experiential learning will offer students a comprehensive understanding of the field.

The school’s focus will not only improve academic outcomes but also increase the city’s reputation as an epicenter for the hospitality industry. The Bennetts’ commitment to quality and attention to detail will influence the school’s curriculum and values, ensuring that students graduate with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in a competitive global industry.

The Bennetts’ Impact on Charleston’s Growth

Michael Bennett, who attended the College of Charleston in the late 1970s, has been instrumental in the revitalization of Charleston’s Upper King Street. Along with his family, he has been a key figure in the city’s resurgence, bringing attention to its unique charm and historical significance.

Michael and Amy’s involvement with the College of Charleston’s hospitality program is not new. Their son, Jack Bennett, a 2016 alumnus, now leads Bennett Hospitality alongside his aunt, Kim Bennett Brown. Their collective work continues to shape the development of Charleston’s hospitality scene.

The Bennett family’s deep-rooted connection with Charleston is evident in their dedication to education and tourism. This latest investment in the College is a testament to their ongoing commitment to the city’s future, with the creation of a world-class academic institution that will cultivate future talent for the hospitality industry.

Raising the Bar for Hospitality Programs

The establishment of the Michael and Amy Bennett School is not only a significant moment for the College of Charleston but also for the city of Charleston as a whole. The new school will set a benchmark for hospitality and tourism education across the country. As the first named school at the College, this institution will elevate the overall profile of the university, strengthening its national and international reputation.

The school’s focus will be on providing students with the leadership and practical skills necessary to succeed in the dynamic and rapidly evolving hospitality industry. With a curriculum designed to provide a holistic understanding of the hospitality and tourism sectors, the school will prepare graduates to tackle challenges and seize opportunities within the field.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Hospitality Leaders

Michael Bennett’s vision goes beyond education; it is about nurturing the next generation of industry leaders. The Bennett family’s philanthropic efforts will have a lasting impact, encouraging students to enter the hospitality field and contribute to the growth of Charleston’s tourism sector. By offering top-tier educational opportunities, the new school will provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to carry on the family’s legacy.

A Vision for the Future of Hospitality Education

With the College of Charleston’s new school in place, students will benefit from a program that blends practical, real-world experience with cutting-edge academic principles. Charleston, with its unique blend of culture, history, and tourism, will continue to offer an ideal environment for students to learn, grow, and succeed. The future of hospitality education looks brighter than ever, with this bold new initiative setting the stage for generations of students to come.

As Charleston continues to solidify its position as one of America’s most hospitable cities, the new Michael and Amy Bennett School of Hospitality and Tourism Management will stand as a beacon for the industry, elevating both the city and the College of Charleston to new heights.

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Charleston is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The charm of the downtown area and the interesting history and hospitality just draw people to the Southern city. There are many historical sites and world class dining options. With the addition of events year round, there is something to do for every type of traveler. The historic plantations, waterfront, and local cuisine are experiences that can;t be missed. The new Michael and Amy Bennett School of Hospitality and Tourism Management also positions Charleston for even more development and opportunity in the hospitality field.