About the Event
Each year, we host an elegant evening that brings together:
- Culinary excellence showcasing our students’ talents
- Recognition of industry leadership and student achievements
- Meaningful connections across our RHTM community
- Direct support for student enrichment and experiential learning
Your participation helps fund transformative opportunities that the classroom cannot cover, from international study tours to prestigious industry conferences where students network with future employers.
The 21st Student Enrichment Fundraiser
featuring a student-led fashion show
Friday, April 24, 2026 from 5:30 pm at Hilton Knoxville
WHAT TO EXPECT
Innovative Leadership Award
We honor an outstanding industry leader in retail, hospitality, or tourism whose innovation, leadership, and commitment exemplify the values we strive to instill in our students. This recognition celebrates professional excellence and provides our students with an inspiring role model for their future careers.
Above: Commissioner Mark Ezell of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD), 2025 Innovative Leadership Award recipient
Silent Auction & Reception
Kick off the evening with a lively silent auction curated by our students and featuring unique items and experiences donated by industry partners, alumni, and friends. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and complimentary beverages while exploring exclusive packages and connecting with our RHTM community.
A Sweet Celebration of Student Innovation
During dinner, guests enjoy a warm, engaging atmosphere that highlights student creativity and innovation. The program features inspiring stories of student experiences made possible through this fundraiser and showcases faculty-led, student-executed special presentations. Each table and seat purchased directly supports these experiential learning opportunities.
Your Impact
Funds raised through this event directly support:
- Student Scholarships – Making education accessible to talented students regardless of financial background
- Conference Participation – Sending students to premier industry events such as NRF, Tennessee Governor’s Conference, and other major industry events
- Competition Teams – Supporting students competing in national retail, hospitality, and tourism challenges
- Experiential Learning – Funding pop-up stores, field trips, and industry collaborations
- Study Tours – Enabling domestic and international learning experiences
Since its inception, this fundraiser has provided opportunities for hundreds of students, with many crediting these experiences as pivotal to their career success.
Ways to Participate
Individual Tickets
Enjoy the full evening program while supporting student success. (A portion of each ticket is tax-deductible.)
Table Sponsorship
Reserve a table for your company, team, or family—an ideal way to celebrate together while giving back.
Event Sponsorship
Show your commitment to developing future industry talent. Benefits may include:
- Event signage and program recognition
- Reserved premium seating
- Opportunity to address attendees
- Direct interaction with top students
Silent Auction Contributions
Donate distinctive items, experiences, or services to power the auction and receive meaningful recognition.
Program Recognition
Honor the Leadership Award recipient or celebrate a student with a congratulatory message in the event program.
Get Involved
Whether you’re a graduate eager to give back, an industry partner investing in future talent, or a parent supporting students’ education, the Annual Student Enrichment Fundraiser is a meaningful way to make an impact.
- Sponsorships
- Silent Auction Items
- Table Reservations
- Individual Tickets
Contact: rhtm@utk.edu • (865) 974-2141
Unable to Attend?
You can still support student enrichment by making a direct gift to the Student Enrichment Fund, exploring planned giving options, forming a corporate partnership, or serving as a volunteer mentor.
The Annual Student Enrichment Fundraiser represents our community’s commitment to providing every RHTM student with opportunities to excel beyond the classroom. Join us in making these transformative experiences possible.