The SHTM has always been committed to the development of close relationships with its alumni, who are one of its most valuable assets. To further strengthen our ties and our friendships, the PolyU and SHTM hosted a Unity Dinner in Hangzhou on 28 May 2011 for all alumni, students and friends based in mainland China.

A seminar entitled "Trends and Vision in Tourism and Hospitality Industry" was held prior to the Unity Dinner. Professor Kaye Chon, Dean of the SHTM, kicked off the seminar by delivering a keynote speech on "Emerging Trends in Tourism and Hospitality Industry". He was followed by Mr Richard Hatter, General Manager of Hotel ICON and Adjunct Associate Professor of the SHTM, who shared his insights in a speech entitled "Hotel ICON – A New Educational Integration Model". The seminar was wrapped up by a keynote speech from Mr Louis Shih, Managing Director of the Camelot Hospitality Innovation Advisory Group and a current student of the SHTM's Doctor of Hotel and Tourism Management programme, on "China's Hotel Industry: Past, Present and Future".

The SHTM currently offers two programmes in mainland China. The Bachelor of Arts in Hotel and Catering Management programme has been offered in collaboration with Xian Jiaotong University since 2005. The Master of Science in Hotel and Tourism Management programme has been offered in collaboration with Zhejiang University since 2000. Both programmes are approved by the Ministry of Education in mainland China.

The Unity Dinner was very well attended, providing an excellent platform for our alumni, students and friends to forge bonds and network. The SHTM firmly believes that these individuals and bodies are not only supporting the development of the School, but are also helping to further the development of the hospitality and tourism industry in mainland China.