Daytona Beach, FL – Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) proudly announces the receipt of a $5,000 grant from the Hyatt University Fund to support its ongoing efforts to advance hospitality business education. This grant will enable the implementation of the Cub Paradise Restaurant Innovations Technology (CPRIT) project, which focuses on equipping students with technological skills and competencies essential for leadership roles in the hospitality industry.
At the core of the CPRIT project is the acquisition of a cutting-edge Electronic Point of Sales (POS) system, a critical tool in modern hospitality management. The POS system will serve as an advanced training platform for BCU students, offering real-world, hands-on experience in restaurant operations, customer service management, and financial transaction handling—vital skills in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven hospitality sector.
“This grant underscores the importance of hospitality business education in preparing future leaders who are both innovative and adaptable,” said Dr. Ruth Smith, Department Chair of Business Administration with a Concentration in Hospitality Management. “With this generous support from Hyatt, we can provide our students with a competitive edge by immersing them in industry-standard technology and operational practices. This initiative perfectly aligns with our mission to deliver high-quality, experiential education that bridges the gap between theory and practice.”
The CPRIT project, housed within the Cub Paradise Restaurant—a student-managed training facility—demonstrates BCU’s commitment to integrating real-world business environments into its curriculum. The addition of the POS system will significantly enhance learning outcomes by simulating the complexities of modern hospitality operations.
Beyond student learning, this initiative will also strengthen BCU’s position as a leader in hospitality business education among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and foster stronger partnerships with industry leaders like Hyatt. By providing state-of-the-art training facilities, BCU aims to cultivate a pipeline of highly skilled graduates who can innovate and excel in various leadership roles across the hospitality industry.
About Bethune-Cookman University
Founded in 1904, Bethune-Cookman University is a distinguished HBCU dedicated to cultivating leaders in various fields, including business, education, and hospitality. The Department of Business Administration, with a Concentration in Hospitality Management, offers an interdisciplinary approach to hospitality business education, blending academic rigor with practical experience to prepare students for successful careers in the global hospitality industry.
About Hyatt University Fund
The Hyatt University Fund supports educational initiatives that enhance the quality of hospitality education and promote innovation and inclusivity. By investing in academic programs and facilities, Hyatt is helping to build a future-ready workforce equipped with the skills needed to meet the demands of an ever-evolving hospitality landscape.
For more information, please contact:
Dr. Ruth Smith
Department Chair & Associate Professor
Bethune-Cookman University
Phone: 386-868-6134
Email: smith@cookman.edu