Tucson Hospitality Academy was founded with simple but urgent principles:
Talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not.
Establishing networks is a key driver of success
Modeling is foundational to professional development
AI will not replace humans, but humans who use AI will replace those who do not
We exist to help young adults discover, prepare for, and thrive in hospitality careers they may have never known existed
Our Mission
To elevate the socioeconomic status youth by equipping them with the knowledge, mentorship, and real-world experience needed to pursue meaningful careers in hospitality, transforming goals once thought unattainable into tangible outcomes.
Our Vision
We envision a future where every young person, regardless of background, has equitable access to high-growth hospitality careers with the support, training, and networks needed to thrive and lead.
Why Hospitality?
The hospitality industry is one of the most diverse, dynamic, and upwardly mobile fields in the world. From hotels and resorts to events, dining, and guest services, it offers pathways to management, entrepreneurship, and leadership even for those who start with no prior experience. Hospitality professionals can start out off in a field like food and beverage, try out multiple professions and end thier career in something totally different, like finance. Whats remarkable, is that this can all be done with the same company, often within the same hotel or resort. At Tucson Hospitality Academy, we help students see these possibilities and show them how to get there.
Instructor & Mentor Profiles
Our students don’t just learn from textbooks, they learn from people doing the work. The most elite universities in the world use this playbook, but are inaccessible, by design, to most students. At Tucson Hospitality Academy, students are taught by hospitality professionals with real-world experience, and each is paired with a dedicated mentor to guide their journey.
I built this academy because I’ve seen firsthand how hospitality can transform lives. This industry welcomed me, mentored me, and gave me a path forward. Now it’s my turn to return the favor to our community. Tucson Hospitality Academy isn’t just a vocational school. It’s a commitment to equity, mentorship, leadership and long-term success. My research on AI in hospitality at the University of Southern California delivered unique insights into what the future workforce should be preparing for, and I am elated to share this work with my students and prepare them to be the leaders of tomorrow.”
Cecil has a Bachelor's Degree in Hotel/Restaurant/Tourism Administration from New Mexico State University, an MBA and MS in Leadership from Grand Canyon University, and a Doctorate of Education in Organizational Change Leadership from the University of Southern California.
The program is open to young adults ages 16–22 in Tucson and Southern Arizona who are motivated, curious, and committed. No previous work experience is required.
Is the program really free?
Yes. The entire program is 100% free to students. Tuition, instruction, mentorship, and training experiences are fully funded by the Academy and its founde
How long is the program?
The program runs for two years, allowing students enough time to gain foundational skills, explore multiple hospitality departments, complete mentorship hours, and develop a five-year career plan.
What makes Tucson Hospitality Academy different?
Fully free for every student
Led by hospitality professionals with real industry experience
Focus on mentorship, leadership, and long-term career planning
Hands-on experience through job shadows, site visits, and internships
Designed to build a clear five-year career roadmap
Unlike typical vocational schools, our approach is rooted in mentorship, equity, and leadership development.
What career paths can this program lead to?
The hospitality industry has some of the most flexible and upward-moving career paths. Students can pursue roles in:
Hotels & Resorts
Culinary & Food Services
Events & Banquets
Front Desk & Guest Services
Sales, Marketing, and Revenue
Hospitality Finance & Operations
Tourism, Travel, and Entertainment
Many professionals start in one department and rise into leadership roles—or transition into entirely new fields—all within the same company.
Let’s Build Your Future Together
We’re here to answer questions and guide your next steps.
