Hall of Honor

Recognizing Leaders Who Define Our Industry

Established to recognize individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the hospitality industry, the Hall of Honor stands as a permanent tribute to the people who embody Conrad N. Hilton’s vision of “filling the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality.”

Each year, Hilton College inducts leaders who have transformed the global hospitality landscape—visionaries in lodging, food and beverage, tourism, and service who exemplify the spirit of excellence and generosity that defines our field.

Highlights:

• Annual induction ceremony and gala celebrating new honorees
• Profiles of industry icons whose achievements have set new benchmarks
• A lasting display of inductees housed at the Hilton University of Houston

  “The Hall of Honor is not only a celebration of success—it’s a reminder of the human stories behind hospitality’s greatest milestones.”

  Explore our past inductees 

A Tribute to Hospitality’s Legacy and Future

Opened in April 2025, the Hall of Honor transforms the Hilton University of Houston lobby into a vivid, interactive journey through the history and future of hospitality. Beneath its grand arches, visitors—students, alumni, hotel guests, and friends—enter a museum-like space where artifacts, multimedia, and storytelling celebrate industry traditions while inspiring the next generation.

Immersive Design

Created in partnership with Houston-based creative studio MWM Partners, the Hall of Honor features:

Exhibits that blend historic artifacts with modern digital displays

A dynamic timeline connecting hospitality milestones to global eventsInteractive elements that invite discovery and engagementFrom menus and hotel keys to multimedia showcases, the space captures both legacy and innovation, offering every visitor a memorable experience.

Celebrating Industry Leaders

Since 1996, the Hospitality Industry Hall of Honor has recognized more than 60 influential leaders whose vision shaped the profession. Inductees include J.W. Marriott, Conrad N. Hilton, Ray Kroc, Ernest and Julio Gallo, Walt Disney, and Vernon Stouffer—pioneers whose names define the world’s most successful hospitality companies and brands.

Annual Induction & Student Leadership

Each year, Hilton College hosts a formal reception, induction ceremony, and dinner to honor new inductees. These events, along with a series of industry-related “Think Tanks,” are entirely planned and executed by student managers—providing an unparalleled experiential learning opportunity.

Gallery & Archives

The Hall of Honor Gallery, located off the Hilton University of Houston main lobby, features commissioned portraits of each inductee by artist Robert Lapsley. Personal papers, memorabilia, and corporate histories are preserved in the Massad Family Library Research Center and Hospitality Industry Archives—ensuring a lasting tribute to the achievements and leadership of the honorees.