Hospitality & Tourism

These stories, profiles, and updates showcase how we continue to lead the way in hospitality and tourism education.

Student chefs at work in 2009
Nolan School

Hospitality sweet: Hotel Ezra Cornell celebrates a century

From a servers’ race to invitations sent via pigeon, Nolan School students showcase their talents to an evolving industry

A close-up of two people carrying small portions of scallops and crostini.
Nolan School

At the 101st Hotel Ezra Cornell, luxury is built on details

Through small gestures of hospitality, Hotel Ezra Cornell’s student organizers set out to create an unforgettable guest experience.

Tip jar
Nolan School

Why we tip, who we tip and what it really says about us

People have a lot to say about where, when and how much to tip. A new book by Michael Lynn dives deep

Justin McManus
Nolan School

Where everybody knows your name: Hotelie runs iconic NYC bar

Justin McManus ’03 is the fourth-generation owner of his family pub—familiar to viewers of “Seinfeld,” “Law & Order,” and more

A gloved hand squeezes dots of sauce around a dish of rice and vegetables.
Nolan School

Nolan School alumni reinvest in culinary education

While patrons relax and enjoy panoramic views of The Ithaca Campus at Establishment, Cornell’s student-run restaurant, the undergraduate head chef leading service in the Grailer Food Lab faces one of the toughest challenges of their education. They call out directions over the clatter of pans and sizzling food, responsible for ensuring quick service, food safety […]

Chef instructor Christian Latimer (left) instructs Isabelle Louis ’26, a hotel administration major and chef assistant, how to add the finishing touch to the roasted carrots appetizer.
Nolan School

Future restaurateurs sharpen their skills in remodeled food lab

After two years of renovations, the Grailer Food Lab has reopened with a more real-world commercial kitchen and all-electric appliances

Maximo Mander
Nolan School

With mouth-watering dishes, senior is already a culinary entrepreneur

Boasting more than 100K Instagram followers, Maximo Mander ’26 is mining his Italian roots with a pop-up pasta restaurant

Hotelie Drew Nieporent ’77
Nolan School

Famed restaurateur recalls a career on the front lines of fine dining

In a memoir, Hotelie Drew Nieporent ’77 offers a behind-the-scenes look at launching legendary spots like Nobu and Tribeca Grill

Five students work at a table with a large screen on the back wall of the room.
Nolan School

Hospitality Hackathon winners propose app to cut billing complaints by 25%

At Cornell’s 2025 Hilton Hospitality Hackathon, more than 100 students tackled hospitality business challenges.