The hospitality industry is one of the fastest growing segments of the global economy. In the United States alone, nearly 8 million individuals are employed in the travel and tourism industries. Leading hotel brands, destination management companies, and others are committed to training the right individuals to grow with their organizations. Careers in hotel management, sales and marketing, accounting, human resources, and guest services exist across the industry and offer great benefits and opportunities to grow personally and professionally.
Here in New Orleans more than 88,000 people are employed in the hospitality industry and that number is expected to rise as new properties open and tourism numbers continue to rise. Total tourism spending in the New Orleans Metro Area surpassed $8.7 billion in 2017 and overall visitor counts were up nearly 6 percent year-over-year. As the tourism industry continues to mature, this will spur the creation of additional employment opportunities.
The Greater New Orleans Hotel & Lodging Association works closely with The University of New Orleans and Delgado Community College and their respective programs to offer continuing education, seminars, and professional certifications to the next generation of New Orleans hospitality leaders. More information on the hospitality and tourism programs at each university are available by clicking on their respective logo below.
Our affiliated Hospitality Education Foundation offers scholarships to eligible students up to $8,000 towards higher education towards accredited hospitality programs at the University of New Orleans and Delgado Community College. Braden Kluttz and Genesis Borjas are the scholarship recipients, and they both are enrolled in the University of New Orleans school of HRT.
Are you or someone you know interested in applying for a GNOHLA Hospitality Education Foundation scholarship?
Please review the following eligibility requirements and click below to access the 2025 GNOHLA Hospitality Education Foundation Online Scholarship Application.
GNOHLA Hospitality Education Foundation Online Scholarship Application
GNOHLA Hospitality Education Foundation Scholarship Application PDF
1. Scholarship applicant must intend to enroll to study Hospitality at either Delgado Community College or The University of New Orleans.
2. Scholarship applicant must have an overall cumulative high school GPA of 2.5.
3. The applicant must be a junior or senior enrolled in a high school in the Orleans, Jefferson, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Tammany, St. Charles, St. John the Baptist, Iberville, Tangipahoa, or St. James parish.
4. Students must demonstrate in their application answers a positive attitude, teamwork, and effective communication skills in either a paid or volunteer position, either in school, your community, or a job.
Greater New Orleans Hotel & Lodging Association 2022 scholarship recipient Braden Kluttz with the Hospitality Education Foundation's past President Tod Chambers.
Scholarship Impact Story
Braden Kluttz, a recipient of the Greater New Orleans Hotel & Lodging Association Hospitality Education Foundation scholarship, is currently studying at the University of New Orleans in the Lester E. Kabacoff School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Administration.
Born and raised in the Greater New Orleans area, Braden developed an early appreciation for hospitality through family outings and travel. A high school trip to Italy left a lasting impression on him, showing how great hospitality could transform a travel experience. That interest deepened back home, inspired by New Orleans’ unique culture. After working in a restaurant during the pandemic and throughout high school, Braden knew he wanted to continue in the hospitality industry.
The GNOHLA scholarship has made a significant difference in Braden’s life. "It has allowed me to go to the University of New Orleans for free, for the most part," he said. "It’s freed up the financial burden on me and my parents. It feels great knowing the scholarship has made things a lot less stressful when it comes to my education."
Looking ahead, Braden hopes to build a career in the conventions and events industry. He has already gained experience working part-time in audio/visual roles at hotels and conventions and also has a background in restaurants. “As someone who enjoys attending conventions and working behind the scenes, I want to explore that side of the industry. We have a great Convention Center in New Orleans, and I’m excited to see what opportunities are out there.” He also values the versatility of his major, which equips him with the knowledge and skills to succeed in many areas of hospitality.
