The World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (the Alliance) and Saunders College of Business at Rochester Institute of Technology (Saunders) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), creating a powerful new partnership to advance sustainability across the global hospitality sector.
The collaboration brings together the Alliance’s unmatched industry network, representing more than 66,000 hotels across 300 brands and 8 million rooms, with Saunders’ internationally recognised expertise in sustainability research and education. Together, they aim to prepare the next generation of hospitality leaders to drive meaningful change for people, planet, and prosperity.
As part of the agreement, the Alliance will share its resources, including the World Academy for Sustainable Hospitality, giving Saunders students opportunities to integrate industry-leading sustainability training into their studies and earn academic credits. Saunders students will also gain access to global initiatives such as the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge, while faculty and leaders will participate in the Alliance’s international summits. In turn, Saunders will embed the Alliance’s tools and expertise into its academic programmes, recognise the Alliance as a strategic partner, and collaborate on joint research, funding opportunities, and sustainability measurement tools.
“This partnership demonstrates the power of academia and industry working hand-in-hand to scale sustainable practices,” said Glenn Mandziuk, Chief Executive Officer of the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance. “By aligning the expertise of Saunders College with the Alliance’s network, we can accelerate impact for people, planet, and prosperity.”
Jacqueline Mozrall, Dean of Saunders College of Business, added:
“We are proud to formalise this collaboration with the Alliance. It reflects our commitment to preparing future leaders with the advanced knowledge and tools to make the hospitality industry a driver of positive change.”
The World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance unites leading hospitality companies, brands, and strategic partners to address pressing environmental and social challenges. With a portfolio of over 66,000 hotels across 300 brands, totalling more than 8 million rooms, including industry giants like Hilton, Marriott, and IHG, the Alliance is committed to developing actionable programs and resources that foster a Net Positive hospitality sector. Through a network of over 100 partners, the Alliance is dedicated to driving collaborative action for a sustainable future.
For more information about the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance and its initiatives, please visit sustainablehospitalityalliance.org.
