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Spotlight on Excellence: Dr. Peter Ricci
In our ongoing effort to highlight the distinguished members of our Academic Advisory Committee, we are thrilled to feature Dr. Peter Ricci, an extraordinary leader and scholar in hospitality and tourism management. Dr. Ricci is the Director of the top-ranked Hospitality and Tourism Management program at Florida Atlantic University (FAU), where his dedication to excellence and education has significantly contributed to the program’s global acclaim.
A Prolific Scholar and Author
With a prolific career in academia, Dr. Ricci has published over 50 articles in peer-reviewed academic journals and leading hospitality industry publications. His scholarly contributions have advanced the field and provided valuable insights into various aspects of hospitality management. Among his notable works is the co-authored "The Little Book of Big Cases for the Hospitality Manager," a resource that has become an essential reading for hospitality professionals.
Credentials and Certifications
Dr. Ricci's expertise is further validated by his extensive list of certifications, making him a distinguished figure in the industry. He holds multiple certifications, including CHA, CHSE, CRME, CHIA, CHRM, HIFIA, CHBA, and CHDM, reflecting his comprehensive knowledge and commitment to professional development.
Academic Journey and Career Highlights
A two-time graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Ricci earned his BA in Sociology and MSRS before completing his doctorate (EdD) in 2005 at the University of Central Florida. His career has been adorned with numerous accolades, underscoring his impact and influence in hospitality education and the industry at large.
Dr. Ricci's honors include:
- University of Florida College of Health and Human Performance Distinguished Alumnus
- Named among The 50 Most Influential Leaders in USA Hospitality
- South Florida Tourism Professional of the Year
- Recognized as one of 15 Event Professionals Making an Impact
- Recipient of the Hospitality Hero Award
- Listed among the 25 Most Influential Hospitality Educators
- Awarded the Dean’s Distinguished Teaching Fellow
- Honored with the Stewart Distinguished Professorship/Master Teacher Award
- Top 25 Extraordinary Minds in Sales, Marketing, and Revenue Management
Commitment to Future Generations
One of Dr. Ricci’s proudest accomplishments is the establishment of the HSMAI South Florida Dr. Peter Ricci Scholarship. This scholarship supports college and university students across South Florida, reflecting his commitment to nurturing the next generation of hospitality professionals.
Joining Hospitality Internships' Academic Advisory Committee
"When I heard that a group of fellow faculty members had put together Hospitality Internships, LLC, I eagerly joined," says Dr. Ricci. "It's way beyond internships. It includes manager-in-development type programs as well as internships to help spread the word in a time when talent search and recruitment are always in a state of 'we need more and better.'"
"Having worked in this industry for decades, I know it's always in need of top talent. The COVID-19 Pandemic only heightened that need. Now, with flexible work arrangements (FWAs) of every kind, employees are in the driver's seat in terms of where they will work, how much they want to be paid, and what they want to do. Our goal is matching great candidates to great companies, and this is exactly what Hospitality Internships aims to do."
Dr. Ricci emphasizes the importance of integrating academic voices to bridge the gap between education and industry needs. "By including our voices from the academic community, we can ensure that we continue to listen to industry leaders and bridge the gap. Indeed, in their 'why we exist' statement, the founders of the group have a quote: 'Our dedication lies in bridging the gap between the hospitality industry and more than 1,100 hospitality, tourism, and culinary arts schools worldwide.'"
"The founding faculty members behind the group have also worked in the industry and know our needs. Together, we will all help bridge the industry to our future leaders in hospitality. It is a pleasure to serve on the Academic Advisory Council," he adds.
Dr. Peter Ricci's distinguished career and extensive contributions to hospitality and tourism management inspire current and aspiring professionals. His leadership and dedication to education ensure that the industry's future remains bright and innovative. We celebrate Dr. Ricci's achievements and are grateful for his ongoing commitment to excellence.
Feel free to connect with Dr. Ricci on LinkedIn or reach out to him directly at peter.ricci@fau.edu.
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