Lynn University’s Dr. Karima Lanfranco Honored as the First IHS Hospitality Hero
Inside Hospitality Solutions is proud to announce Dr Karima Lanfranco, Assistant Professor of Hospitality Management at Lynn University, as the first IHS Hospitality Hero Award recipient. This prestigious accolade recognizes the extraordinary contributions of individuals in the hospitality industry who go above and beyond to help elevate the guest experience and inspire others.
Dr. Lanfranco, nominated by Dr. James Downey, Professor Emeritus at Lynn University, is celebrated for her dedication to both the industry and education.
“Karima is a consummate industry and educational professional,” Dr. Downey remarked. “She was just awarded Outstanding Teacher of the Year for 2024 at Lynn University and has inspired her students to pursue the hospitality industry as a career since joining Lynn. She is truly a rising star, and I recommend her without hesitation.”
At Lynn University, Dr. Lanfranco has distinguished herself as a strong advocate for student learning, integrating innovative teaching methods that foster an interactive and dynamic learning environment. Her commitment to student success was recognized at the university’s 2024 Commencement Ceremony, where she received the Award for Excellence in Teaching and Dedication to Students.
With over a decade of experience working at full-service properties such as Hyatt Hotels, Four Seasons, Kessler Collection, and Hilton Hotels and Resorts, Dr. Lanfranco brings a wealth of industry knowledge to her role as an educator. As the academic program coordinator for hospitality management and faculty advisor for the hospitality club and international hospitality honor society—Eta Sigma Delta—she has embedded an industry-recognized hotel management training system at Lynn, preparing students for successful careers in hospitality.
Dr. Lanfranco’s approach to education is deeply personalized. “I want to continue to add value in a personalized way that’s unique to each student’s need,” she said. “I want to prepare them for what they can expect after graduation by developing skills they’ll need and exposing them to different aspects of the industry.”
Inside Hospitality Solutions created the IHS Hospitality Hero program to celebrate individuals like Dr Lanfranco, who embody the spirit of hospitality and inspire excellence in others. We are thrilled to honor her as the first recipient of this award and look forward to recognizing more exceptional hospitality professionals in the coming months.
Congratulations, Dr Karima Lanfranco, our inaugural IHS Hospitality Hero!
If you would like to nominate a colleague for the Inside Hospitality Solutions Hospitality Hero Award, then contact Yuri Duncan for further information