Construction set to begin on HRTM academic space at Scarlet Hotel

23 May 2024     By Kelcey Buck

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Hospitality, Restaurant and Tourism Management (HRTM) program is one step closer to making its new state-of-the-art space at the Scarlet Hotel on Nebraska’s Innovation Campus a reality. 

Construction on the HRTM academic space is slated to begin in July thanks to funding by a grant from the Economic Development Administration and a gift from Dean and Jessie Rasmussen of Omaha. The academic space at the Scarlet Hotel will feature state-of-the-art classroom space that will allow students to deepen their understanding of the commitment to service excellence required in the hospitality industry. The goal is for HRTM classes to be in the new space beginning in Fall 2025. 

“The Hospitality Leadership and Innovation Academy at Scarlet Hotel will certainly create an unparalleled learning environment that will elevate the training and preparation for our students in the HRTM program,” said Ajai Ammachathram, associate professor and director of UNL’s HRTM program. “This unique space will not only inspire creativity but also foster real-world skills, ensuring our students emerge as leaders in the ever-evolving hospitality industry. We are grateful for the support from the Economic Development Administration and the Rasmussens, which will help us to enhance the experience we provide students in our program.” 

By combining classroom instruction with experiential learning, Nebraska’s HRTM program is known for meeting the needs of the industry while allowing students to tailor the program to their interests. Students in the hospitality management major have six emphasis areas to choose from: hotel management, club management, event management, food and beverage management, tourism, and human resources. 

The hospitality industry is the third-largest revenue generator in Nebraska and one of the largest industries in the world. In the United States, the hospitality industry represents more than $1.6 trillion in economic output and 1 of every 10 jobs. 

Fundraising efforts continue for the learning kitchen, which will also support the teaching of expanded culinary offerings for those studying the food and beverage facet of the industry. To learn more about the Hospitality, Restaurant and Tourism Management program and how to support its future, click here or call 402-472-3867. Gifts may be made online.

The Rasmussens are University of Nebraska Foundation Trustees and serve as co-chairs of the College of Education and Human Sciences campaign committee for Only in Nebraska: A Campaign for Our University's Future. The campaign is a historic effort to engage 150,000 benefactors to give $3 billion to support University of Nebraska students, faculty, academic and clinical programs and research to address the needs of the state.