HSMAI Foundation Opens Applications for 2026 Mike Dimond Student Career Success Scholarship
Three students will receive $2,000 scholarships plus conference registration and industry mentorship through applications due April 30, 2026.
McLean, VA – The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2026 Mike Dimond Student Career Success Scholarship, an initiative designed to support and accelerate the development of hospitality students pursuing careers in commercial strategy.
Named in honor of Mike Dimond, one of the most respected hotel marketing executives in the United States, the scholarship reflects his enduring legacy of leadership, mentorship, and innovation in hospitality. Dimond held senior leadership roles throughout his career, including Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, and was recognized as a member of the HSMAI Hall of Fame and one of “The 25 Most Extraordinary Minds in Hospitality & Travel.”
Mike Dimond was deeply committed to developing talent and elevating the hospitality industry. This scholarship carries that legacy forward by investing in students who demonstrate both passion and potential in commercial disciplines—strengthening the workforce of tomorrow and helping ensure a more dynamic, innovative, and resilient hospitality industry.
Brian Hicks, CEO and President of HSMAI
In 2026, three outstanding hospitality students will be selected to receive the Mike Dimond Student Career Success Scholarship. Each recipient will receive a comprehensive package designed to support both academic and professional growth, including:
A $2,000 scholarship to support academic development
Complimentary registration to an HSMAI conference
A mentorship with an industry leader
Applicants must:
Applicants must be enrolled in in a degree-seeking hospitality program
Complete application form, including resume, and a written statement
Applications will be reviewed by members of the HSMAI Foundation Board, who will evaluate candidates based on:
Proven interest in a career in hospitality sales, marketing, revenue management, or distribution
Industry work experience
Submission materials
Preference will be given to HSMAI Student Members
Applications will be accepted through April 30, 2026. Eligible students are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to gain financial support, industry exposure, and mentorship. For more information on the Mike Dimond Student Career Success Scholarship and to apply, visit Mike Dimond Student Career Success Scholarship 2026.
About HSMAI
The Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) is committed to growing business for hotels and their partners and is the industry's leading advocate for intelligent, sustainable hotel revenue growth. The association provides hotel professionals and their partners with tools, insights, and expertise to fuel sales, inspire marketing, and optimize revenue through annual programs such as the Commercial Strategy Conference and Adrian Awards. Founded in 1927, HSMAI is a membership organization comprising more than 5,000 members worldwide, with over 30 chapters in the Americas Region. Connect with HSMAI at hsmai.org.
About the HSMAI Foundation
The HSMAI Foundation is a 501c3 organization established in 1983 to serve as the research and educational arm of the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International. The Foundation's mission is to elevate the overall caliber and performance of sales, marketing, and revenue management professionals in the global hospitality industry by driving initiatives that will attract new talent, develop emerging talent and engage existing talent. The work of the Foundation is supported by private donations and Corporate Talent Partners. Visit www.hsmaifoundation.org for more information.