I straddle the travel-tourism and food & beverage departments. Currently, I teach beverage appreciation, but I’ve also taught guest relations, strategic planning and restaurant operations.”
Bio
Michael Sabitoni, M.S., is the department chairperson for both the International Travel/Tourism Studies and the Food & Beverage Management departments.
Prior to joining the university, Sabitoni worked in both of these fields for nearly 30 years. He currently serves on the Educational Foundation Board of Directors for the Rhode Island Hospitality Association and previously served on both the National Tourism Educational Advisory Council and as president and chairman of the board for the International Society of Travel and Tourism Educators (ISTTE).
He is the recipient of the Visiting Scholar Award from the National Tour Association and the beneficiary of the prestigious Opperman Memorial Award for Lifetime Achievement from the ISTTE.
Sabitoni completed his education at Johnson & Wales University with a master’s degree in Hospitality Administration.
Professional Memberships
- International Society of Travel & Tourism Educators, 1994–present
President/Chairman of the Board - Rhode Island Hospitality Association Education Foundation, 2014–present
Board of Directors - Rhode Island Hospitality Association, 2008–present
Board of Directors - Society of Wine Educators (SWE), 2014–present
Awards & Honors
- 2014: International Society of Travel & Tourism Educators
Opperman Memorial Award for Lifetime Achievement