The SHTM's latest cohort of 563 graduates embarked on their careers with inspiring words ringing in their ears following the PolyU 16th Congregation (SHTM) held at the Jockey Club Auditorium on 5 November 2010. Receiving their degrees and diplomas were 7 PhD, 4 MPhil, 79 MSc, 262 BSc, 55 BA and 156 HD graduates.

Both the morning and afternoon sessions began with the now customary parade of students and staff in their academic robes from the Che-woo Lui Hotel and Tourism Resource Centre to the Jockey Club Auditorium, led by two bagpipers in full Scottish dress.

PolyU Vice President (Research Development) and Chairman of the SHTM's Board of School, Professor Alexander Wai opened both the morning and afternoon sessions, with the morning session also addressed by Guest of Honour Mr James Tien, GBS, JP, Chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board. The Guest of Honour of the afternoon session was Mr Chanin Donavanik, Chief Executive Officer of Dusit International.

While the two Guests of Honour had many years of industry experience to draw on, the two fresh BSc in Hotel Management graduates who gave valedictory speeches – Josephy Yeung and Charlotte Fong – had equally inspiring words for those in attendance.

The 2010 Outstanding PolyU SHTM Alumni Award was presented to Mr Wilson Lee who graduated from the then Department of Institutional Management and Catering Studies with a Higher Diploma in 1988. Mr Lee received the award from Professor Kaye Chon for his contributions to both the School and the industry. Mr Lee is currently General Manager of Andaz Hotel, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, in Shanghai.

The SHTM offers its congratulations to all graduates, and looks forward to hearing the stories of their success in the coming years.