McKibbon Family Foundation Makes $5 Million Donation to Florida International University’s Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management for New Alumni Center and Technology-Focused Programming
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The McKibbon Family Foundation, led by philanthropists John and Letitia McKibbon, today announced a $5 million contribution to Florida International University’s (FIU) Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management. The transformational gift was presented during a recent event celebrating well-loved and influent ial professor emeritus, Rocco M. Angelo’s 90th birthday, and will be used to establish an alumni center, new technology-focused programming, as well as scholarships for hospitality students.
“Rocco Angelo and Florida International University have had a profound impact on myself and countless others across the industry,” said John McKibbon. “This contribution is a reflection of that, and we sincerely hope that the projects that will come to fruition as a result of this funding will carry on that legacy and continue to inspire and support future generations of hospitality students for years to come.”
John McKibbon, who studied under Angelo, graduated from Florida International University’s Chaplin School of Hospitality in 1975 and has been committed to giving back and supporting the school and its future hospitality leaders ever since. A third-generation entrepreneur with more than 40 years of hospitality experience, he serves as the Chairman of M cKibbon Hospitality - a leader in hotel management, Chairman of McKibbon Places - a hotel development and construction management firm, and Chief Executive Officer of M3 - a global hotel accounting software company. In addition to serving on FIU’s Executive Advisory Board, McKibbon was honored by his alma mater in 2009 with the FIU Medallion for Outstanding Alumnus.
About the McKibbon Family Foundation:
As much as we’ve evolved since our founding, one thing hasn’t changed. We’re still a family company dedicated to the communities we call home. Through the McKibbon Family Foundation, we give back to dozens of causes near and dear to our hearts. Learn more at https://www.mckibbonfamilyfoundation.org/.
About McKibbon Hospitality
Headquartered in Tampa, FL, McKibbon Hospitality creates memorable hospitality experiences that inspire brand and property loyalty. It's how we"ve grown into one of the largest (and most awarded) hotel management companies in the country. We operate dozens of hotels for Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, and other iconic hospitality brands. Our legacy is built on a foundation of integrity, anchored in how we value our guests, treat our associates and partners, and give back to our communities. Visit McKibbon.com to learn more.
Sarah Shellabarger
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