SHTM faculty members, students and their families celebrated new beginnings on 16 November 2012 when PolyU held its 18th Congregation (SHTM) at the Jockey Club Auditorium. The Congregation spanned three sessions, with 7 Ph.D., 6 D.HTM, 7 MPhil, 108 MSc, 1 PgD, 404 BSc, 49 BA and 211 HD graduates receiving their well-earned degrees and diplomas.

Both the morning and afternoon sessions began with bagpipers in full Scottish dress leading a parade of students and staff in their academic robes across the PolyU campus to the Auditorium.

Professor Kaye Chon, Dean and Chair Professor of the SHTM, opened the proceedings for each session, with the morning session also being addressed by Guest of Honour Mr Patrick Imbardelli, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Pan Pacific Hotels Group. The guests of honour at the afternoon sessions were Mr Frank Wolfe, Chief Executive Officer of Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals, and Mr Simon Cooper, President and Managing Director, Asia Pacific of Marriott International, Inc.

The three guests of honour had many years of industry experience to draw on, but the three fresh SHTM graduates who gave valedictory speeches – Vivian Hung, Annette Yau and Henry Mak – had equally inspiring words for those in attendance.

During the second session, the 2012 Outstanding PolyU SHTM Alumni Award was presented to Mr William Lin, who graduated from the SHTM with a Master of Science in 2007. Mr Lin was recognised for his contributions to both the School and the industry. He is currently Chairman and General Manager of LN Hospitality Management Co Ltd and is based in Guangzhou.

The SHTM congratulates all of the graduates, and wishes them well as they commence the next exciting phase of their lives.