Marriott International announced to create the Arne M. Sorenson Hospitality Fund to support the design of a “world-class hospitality program and curriculum” at Howard University in Washington, D.C, USA.

The endowment was created to honor the memory of former Marriott CEO Arne Sorenson, who  died on February 15  following a battle with pancreatic cancer.

The center, which aims to expand opportunities for Howard students and develop future executives in the hospitality industry, will be housed within Howard University's School of Business.

Marriott International announced the creation of the Arne M. Sorenson Hospitality Fund which will support the Center. This Fund is dedicated to helping the industry build leadership talent in hospitality. Marriott has pledged the first donation of $1 million and is inviting other companies, organizations and individuals – from all industries – to support this effort.

I can think of no better tribute to the amazing legacy of Arne Sorenson than to focus on educating and advancing future leaders of the hospitality industry. Arne’s passion for creating a culture of opportunity brought real change in the executive ranks of our company. But work remains to be done. Our industry needs a pipeline of diverse leadership talent and that’s exactly what this Center will achieve. 

J.W. “Bill” Marriott, Jr., Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board, Marriott International