The Hilton Hospitality Management & Tourism Program at GCSC

Our program isn't just about checking courses off a list. It's about teaching the soft skills along with the hard skills and understanding the nuances that take you from good to great. It's about connecting you to experts in the field, to experiences that shape you and ultimately to your future.

When you understand the experience and the journey, you're primed for success. Hospitality is part art, part science and completely within reach through The Hilton Hospitality Management & Tourism Program. Join us!

Check your prerequistes, co-requisites and all requirements for the AS in Hospitality and Tourism Management. It’s easy to get started and helps you feel informed and prepared for the road ahead.

Gulfcoast.edu/hospitality

Big ideas sometimes start with a simple classroom question.

In Professor Paul Bonnette’s Leadership and Managerial Development class at Gulf Coast State College, students were asked what kind of leader they want to become and what skills they hope to carry with them into their careers. From communication and inclusivity to staying calm under pressure, the conversation sparked something bigger.

So what started as a classroom discussion turned into an evening of insight with some of the Gulf Coast’s most respected leaders at the Spring 2026 panel, “Anchoring Growth: Cultivating Tomorrow’s Leaders.”

Students heard firsthand from regional leaders about the experiences, challenges, and leadership lessons that shaped their journeys.

Thank you:
Glen McDonald, President of Gulf Coast State College
Ethan Register, Panama City Beach Ward 2 Councilman
Bill Cramer, President, Bill Cramer Chevrolet
Allan Branch, Panama City Mayor
Jason Branks, President, Hilton Sun, Inc.
Melinda Lane, General Manager, Springhill Suites PCB
Katja Chatfield, General Manager, Embassy Suites PCB
Mike Chouri, VP of Operations, Margaritaville Resorts

What began as a guest speaker idea quickly grew into a packed room in the Student Union with 40 students and faculty joining the conversation. Thanks to collaboration with the Organizational Management program and Program Coordinator Cara Pattinato, the event became a meaningful opportunity for students to connect directly with the leaders helping shape the future of our region.

Because sometimes the best leadership lessons don’t come from a textbook. They come from hearing the real stories behind the people leading the way.

Take one simple step. Registration is open now. Visit the Gulf Coast State College website, explore the Hilton Hospitality Management and Tourism Program, and enroll in your first course. You can even apply for a scholarship to help support your journey.

Every career begins with one decisive moment — this one could be yours.
gulfcoast.edu/hospitality

Hospitality life lately: Students and faculty attended a Lunch & Learn event at FSUPC featuring hospitality entrepreneur Jeff O’Hara, an FSU alumnus with decades of industry experience, including leadership roles with Sheraton Hotels and the founding or co-founding of 11 ventures across hospitality, technology, and real estate. O’Hara earned his B.S. in Hospitality Administration from FSU and an MBA from Tulane University. It was inspiring to hear from him and we look forward to exchanging ideas in the future!

Anchoring Growth: Cultivating tomorrow’s hospitality leaders On Tuesday, students heard from local hospitality leaders at a panel hosted by the Hospitality Management and Tourism Program. They spoke about what it takes to be a great leader.

You don't need to wait until you “figure everything out” to apply.

There are real scholarship opportunities available right now for students in the Hilton Hospitality Management and Tourism Program at Gulf Coast State College.

If cost has been the thing holding you back, this is your sign to ask questions, apply, and take the next step. Your future career should not be limited by funding. We're here to help you succeed!
gulfcoast.edu/hospitality

Thank you Merritt Brown Middle School for the opportunity to share more about high school dual enrollment and all the fun waiting at .

Dual enrollment is an incredible path to take toward a career in hospitality and we’re always happy to speak about our program. We had a wonderful day!

We can always look to the art (and science) of hospitality for inspiration, with its impact easily visible on a national or global stage. The Super Bowl is a masterclass in hosting. It's a single event made up of thousands of micro-moments, all intended to serve guests via the host event, a host city, restaurants, lodging and even hosted tailgates. No matter the size of the gathering, it’s the small, studied details that ultimately make or break the experience.

The path from here is yours to choose. ↗️

You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers!

You can always learn more at gulfcoast.edu 🎓📚