Mr Manuel Woo had been appointed the Honorary Fellow (Hotel Management) of the SHTM since 2007. Mr Woo had strong connections with the hospitality and tourism leaders and vast experience in hotel and tourism management. Mr Woo was the former Executive Director of Hong Kong Hotels Association. During the past years, Mr Woo had given unfailing support to both SHTM and PolyU. Mr Woo was a Council Member of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University from 1989-90 to 1993-94. He also served as a Member and Chairman of the Departmental Advisory Committee of SHTM from 1986 to 1994.

Mr Woo had actively participated in activities organised by the School. He attended SHTM's First Industry Appreciation Dinner on 18 April 2007, the day the Honorary Fellowship conferred on him. The event was part of SHTM's contribution to the 70th Anniversary celebrations of PolyU. It provided an excellent opportunity for students to meet with many industry executives, to broaden their horizons, and to keep them abreast of the latest development in the industry. He had established the Manuel Woo Scholarship in Memory of His Late Parents to encourage academic and personal excellence among SHTM students. Since 2004, five students have benefitted immensely from the scholarship for the consummation of their academic achievement and development into all-round graduates.

Mr Woo was instrumental in the establishment of the Andreas Hofer Scholarship of US$1 million for outstanding SHTM students.

In paying his tribute, Professor Kaye Chon, Chair Professor and Director of SHTM, said, "I join with many others who knew Mr Woo in offering our deepest sympathy on his passing. Although it is little consolation at this sad time, it should be of some satisfaction to know that Mr Woo's life was well lived. As an industry leader, Mr Woo had made remarkable contributions to the hotel industry as well as to the development of hospitality and tourism education in Hong Kong and in the region. We will remember Mr Woo as an industry model, a partner and a friend."