Endorsements

"Steve has created one of the most successful academic engagement programs among international businesses."

"Steve has the widest range of relationships among hospitality and tourism academia, industry, and related associations"

“Steve has created the most popular hotel industry certification (CHIA) in the world.“

  • "Steve Hood has been a true champion of both industry and academia, which makes him uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between the two. His deep understanding, unwavering commitment, and passion for the field have earned him the respect of professionals and educators alike. I simply can’t recommend anyone more than Steve to take on this challenge. Hood Hospitality is in the right hands.

    Dr. Nicholas Thomas,
    Professor & Assistant Dean - Academic Programs, Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy - Les Roches

  • “As many industry leaders will attest, Mr. Hood is an expert in hospitality and tourism. Specifically, his expertise is in data analytics on a global scale. His research-related activities also cross over to higher education where he has mentored and supported future leaders for decades.”

    Dennis Reynolds, Ph.D.

    Dean of the College and Barron Hilton Distinguished Chair

    Conrad N. Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership, University of Houston

  • “Steve is one of a kind! Highly knowledgeable, engaging - and someone who always has a presentation at the ready and insights to share. He single-handedly created a bridge between industry and academe. Leading the STR/CoSTAR initiative for many years, he was able to engage and interact with both educators and students”.

    Perry Hobson, PhD

    President of the ICHRIE international association for hospitality & tourism educators

    Director - Academy of Tourism, Breda University

  • “Steve has been a champion who advocates for academic engagement and the advancement of hospitality education through numerous projects and programs. His leadership and dedication have been instrumental in supporting initiatives like the STR Student Market Study Competition, which has provided invaluable real-world experience and inspiration to hospitality students worldwide. Specifically, he is the most outstanding supporter from the industry when we developed our MS in Global Hospitality Business program with our global partners, Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne and Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Due to his leadership and support for academic research, he has played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academia and industry. His contributions have not only enriched hospitality curricula but have also empowered a new generation of industry professionals to approach the field with insight, rigor, and a sense of purpose.”

    Ki-Joon Back, Ph.D.

    Senior Associate Dean and Moore Professor

    Conrad N. Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership, University of Houston

  • "Steve is an outstanding and widely respected expert in the international hotel industry. His extensive knowledge, experience, professionalism, and warm personality make him a highly influential and admired leader in our field. I always enjoy working with him and learning from his insights, and I wholeheartedly recommend him."

    Fevzi Okmus

    Pegasus Professor and CFHLA Preeminent Chair Professor Rosen

    College of Hospitality Management, University of Central Florida

  • "Steve is an exceptional hospitality professional who possesses deep industry expertise and a strong commitment to supporting others. He sets the gold standard for integrity, and he’s one of the most accessible and collaborative partners I’ve had the pleasure of working with.”

    J. Bruce Tracey,

    Kenneth and Marjorie Blanchard Professor of Human Resources Management, Nolan School of Hotel Administration, Cornell University