HFIM Highlights

The Hospitality and Food Industry Management program at the University of Georgia continues to provide a world-class learning experience to future hospitality leaders seeking to work in hotels and resorts, restaurants, event management, and marketing. From industry leaders visiting HFIM classrooms to experiencing the hospitality and tourism industry firsthand through internships and conferences, the HFIM program provides students with a well-rounded experience that allows them to apply their classroom knowledge to the real world.

UGA HFIM Returns to #1 Ranking in 2026

In the 2026 Niche.com college rankings, the Hospitality and Food Industry Management program earned a #1 ranking among public universities for hospitality and tourism management. This marks the fourth consecutive year HFIM has placed in the top five nationally, including #1 in 2023 and 2024, and #2 in 2025.
This excellence and recognition reflect the program’s rapid growth and national reputation for preparing students to lead across the hospitality ecosystem. Since the program’s launch in 2019, the program’s dedication to students' success and the support from the industry leaders of Georgia’s $60 billion tourism industry, HFIM continues to lead the way among hospitality programs across the country and the state as the premier destination for hospitality leadership.

Johns Creek High School Visit

The Hospitality and Food Industry Management program and the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics hosted students and teachers from Johns Creek High School this semester. The visit offered students an opportunity to experience UGA hospitality and student life through tours of the Georgia Center and the Stegeman Coliseum with a lunch at the Snelling Dining Commons. Additionally, students caught a glimpse of the classroom experience through Dr. Will Secor and Dr. John Salazar’s brief presentations and activities.

Georgia Governor's Tourism Conference

In September, the Hospitality and Food Industry Management faculty and students attended the Georgia Governor’s Tourism Conference in Savannah, Georgia.