January 15, 2026

College of Charleston Launches Major Hospitality School

Charleston, SC, January 15, 2026

The College of Charleston has unveiled the Michael and Amy Bennett School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, aiming to enhance educational offerings and strengthen the local economy. Officially launched on January 9, 2026, this new institution will cultivate industry leaders by integrating practical skills with strong business principles. Supported by local entrepreneurs Michael and Amy Bennett, the school emphasizes experiential learning and prepares graduates to innovate within Charleston’s vital tourism sector, which contributed $14 billion to the local economy in 2024.

Charleston, SC

Charleston Pioneers New Era: College of Charleston Unveils Major Hospitality School

Charleston’s thriving economy, renowned for its vibrant culture and entrepreneurial spirit, is set to receive a significant boost with the official launch of a new, landmark educational institution. The College of Charleston has proudly announced the establishment of the Michael and Amy Bennett School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, an initiative poised to cultivate the next generation of industry leaders and further solidify the Lowcountry’s status as a global tourism destination.

This strategic move underscores a powerful synergy between private sector investment and academic excellence, a hallmark of robust economic growth. It reflects a proactive approach to workforce development in a critical industry, demonstrating how focused educational endeavors can directly contribute to local prosperity and individual achievement. The new school is a testament to the vision of local entrepreneurs and their commitment to nurturing the talent that drives Charleston’s economic engine, reinforcing the idea that private initiative can often be the catalyst for meaningful community advancement.

A Foundation Built on Entrepreneurial Vision

The Michael and Amy Bennett School of Hospitality and Tourism Management officially debuted on January 9, 2026, with an announcement made at the distinguished Hotel Bennett on King Street. This significant development represents the first named school within the College of Charleston, marking a pivotal moment for the institution and the wider community. The school is strategically housed within the College’s School of Business, ensuring that students receive an education integrating strong business principles with specialized industry knowledge. This integration is crucial for developing well-rounded professionals capable of navigating the complexities of the modern hospitality sector.

The establishment of this school is made possible through the generous backing of Michael and Amy Bennett, recognized as prominent hospitality entrepreneurs behind Bennett Hospitality. Their company, founded in 1983, has grown to include the iconic Hotel Bennett in Charleston, alongside a portfolio of over 25 properties spanning South Carolina, Georgia, and Montana. This private investment in public education highlights a powerful model for strengthening key industries and fostering a skilled workforce.

Cultivating Future Leaders for a Dynamic Industry

The new school’s primary objective is to strengthen the hospitality leadership pipeline through deeper executive engagement and a strong emphasis on experiential learning. By focusing on practical skills, an entrepreneurial spirit, and hands-on experience in a real-world learning environment, the curriculum is designed to prepare students for diverse management roles within this dynamic sector. This approach aims to ensure graduates are not only academically proficient but also professionally prepared to lead and innovate within the industry, directly contributing to Lowcountry economic growth.

For more than 25 years, Charleston has offered the College’s students exceptional internship opportunities, access to world-class resources, and meaningful industry connections, effectively serving as a “living learning lab”. The College of Charleston’s existing hospitality and tourism program has a strong track record, having been ranked the sixth best in the nation and the top program in South Carolina by Study.com in 2019. This new named school is poised to further elevate that national profile, setting a benchmark for hospitality and tourism education across the country.

Tourism: A Cornerstone of Charleston County Economy

The hospitality and tourism industry remains a vital cornerstone of the Charleston County economy, demonstrating remarkable resilience and consistent growth. In 2024, the greater Charleston area generated a record $14 billion in economic impact from tourism. This substantial figure represents a 7.1% increase from 2023. The region welcomed an estimated 7.89 million visitors in 2024, with total visitor numbers rising by 1.2%. Significantly, the average visitor expenditure also saw a healthy increase of 5.5%, with an average of $1,105 spent per adult per trip in 2024. This indicates that Charleston is attracting visitors who not only appreciate its charm but also invest more into the local businesses and services.

The industry’s robust performance directly translates into significant job creation, providing livelihoods for a substantial portion of the local workforce. In 2024, the tourism industry employed 54,900 individuals in the Charleston area, contributing to a regional workforce of over 55,000 in the tourism sector. Overall, tourism was attributable to 23.5% of all sales in the region in 2024. Such figures underscore the critical role that a thriving tourism sector plays in sustaining economic vitality and creating opportunities for individuals and small businesses across the Lowcountry.

Supporting Lowcountry Economic Growth and Innovation

The new Michael and Amy Bennett School of Hospitality and Tourism Management is more than just an academic expansion; it is an investment in the future of Charleston’s economic landscape. By providing specialized training and fostering an entrepreneurial mindset, the school aims to produce graduates who are not only ready to fill existing roles but also to innovate and create new ventures within the hospitality sector. This kind of targeted educational investment is vital for maintaining Charleston’s competitive edge and ensuring sustained economic growth, reinforcing the benefits of limited regulation that allows private enterprises and educational institutions to collaborate effectively.

The story of Michael Bennett, who worked with the College’s maintenance crew in the late 1970s while attending classes, exemplifies how practical experience and determination can pave the way for extraordinary entrepreneurial success. His journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring business leaders and highlights the value of hands-on learning, a core tenet of the new school’s philosophy. This dedication to practical application ensures that the school will serve as a continuous source of talent and innovation, further enriching the Charleston SC business environment and promoting personal achievement.

A Call to Engage in Charleston’s Economic Future

The launch of the Michael and Amy Bennett School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at the College of Charleston represents a significant step forward for the region’s economic development and educational prowess. It is a testament to the power of entrepreneurial vision and strategic partnerships in strengthening critical industries and creating new pathways to success. We encourage all residents to acknowledge and support the vital role that local innovation and leadership play in boosting job creation and business success within our community. Staying engaged in Charleston’s economic future, whether through supporting local businesses or advocating for policies that foster entrepreneurial growth, ensures that the Lowcountry continues to thrive for generations to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the name of the new hospitality school at the College of Charleston?

The new hospitality school at the College of Charleston is called the Michael and Amy Bennett School of Hospitality and Tourism Management.

When did the Michael and Amy Bennett School of Hospitality and Tourism Management officially debut?

The Michael and Amy Bennett School of Hospitality and Tourism Management officially debuted on January 9, 2026.

Where is the new hospitality school housed?

The new hospitality school is housed within the College of Charleston’s School of Business.

Who are Michael and Amy Bennett?

Michael and Amy Bennett are prominent hospitality entrepreneurs behind Bennett Hospitality.

What is the economic impact of tourism in the Charleston area in 2024?

In 2024, the greater Charleston area generated a record $14 billion in economic impact from tourism.

Key Features of the Michael and Amy Bennett School of Hospitality and Tourism Management

Feature	Description
Official Name	The Michael and Amy Bennett School of Hospitality and Tourism Management
Launch Date	January 9, 2026
Location	Housed within the College of Charleston’s School of Business
Benefactors	Michael and Amy Bennett (Bennett Hospitality)
Significance	First named school at the College of Charleston; aims to strengthen hospitality leadership pipeline and set a national benchmark.
Curriculum Focus	Practical skills, entrepreneurial spirit, leadership development, business principles, and experiential learning.
Experiential Learning	Charleston serves as a “living learning lab” with extensive internship opportunities and industry connections.