TVU celebrates 60 years of excellence

Thames Valley University's (TVU) London School of Hospitality and Tourism recently celebrated 60 years of hospitality and tourism teaching excellence at a lunch hosted at The Royal Garden Hotel, Kensington.

The 60th anniversary celebrations, which took place last week (10 March), also honored the achievements of four of School's individuals who have gone on to hold prominent positions in the global hospitality industry.

The event was hosted by TVU's chancellor and founder of Cobra Beer, Lord Karan Bilimoria, and included key speakers such as Sir Rocco Forte, chairman and chief executive of The Rocco Forte Collection, The Viscount Thurso MP and TVU Vice-chancellor professor Peter John. 

Those honored at the event included William Brake, founder and former chairman of the catering supply company Brake Bros, who received an honorary professor award, and Ian Carter, president of Global Operations for Hilton Hotels Corporation, who received the Alumni Award of Distinction.

Others celebrated included Laurence Geller, President and chief executive officer of Strategic Hotels & Resorts, who received a Lifetime Achievement Award; and Tim Ingram Hill, Former Chairman and chief executive officer of RoadChef plc, awarded an Honorary Doctorate. Invited guests included Anton Mosimann, Michelin starred chef and TVU Honorary Professor.

Over the years the London School of Hospitality and Tourism has won many accolades including the Centre of Vocational Excellence award, UK College Restaurant of the Year award, the British Hospitality Association Centenary award as well as numerous other endorsements from the industry.

Professor David Foskett, Associate Dean, Professional Studies and Head of the London School of Hospitality and Tourism, said: "The many accolades received over the last 60 years can be attributed to the quality of our teachers, the unique learning environment of the School and the success of its students who have graduated to take their place as leaders of industry. Our alumni are our best ambassadors, and I am delighted to welcome many of them here today."

Words: Maria Bracken

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