RHTM Student Enrichment Fundraiser Receives Record Gift from Stand Out For Good, Inc.
RHTM Student Enrichment Fundraiser Receives Record Gift from Stand Out For Good, Inc.
The Department of Retail, Hospitality, and Tourism Management (RHTM) hosted its 21st annual RHTM Student Enrichment Fundraiser on Friday, April 24, at the Hilton Knoxville, bringing together industry partners, alumni, friends, and students to celebrate education, partnership, and the future of the retail and hospitality industries.
This year’s event proudly recognized Stand Out For Good, Inc. as the 2026 Honoree. A purpose-driven lifestyle retailer representing Altar’d State, AS Revival, Altar’d State Kids, Altar’d State Home and Vow’d, Stand Out For Good, Inc. was honored for its meaningful partnership and leadership. The organization demonstrated extraordinary commitment to student success with a $75,000 contribution, marking the largest single donation in the fundraiser’s more than 20-year history. The partnership and contribution reflect a shared passion for investing in future leaders and creating opportunities for students to grow both personally and professionally.
Guests experienced an immersive, student-produced evening that highlighted the talent and creativity of RHTM students. The program featured the fundraiser’s first-ever fashion show, produced and styled by students enrolled in RMM 495 Fashion Show Management and Production. Students worked closely with retail partners to curate the evening’s looks, with hair and makeup support from the Tennessee School of Beauty. Culinary experiences were designed and executed by hospitality students, and the evening also included a curated silent auction showcasing unique items and experiences.
The event was made possible through the efforts of students in HTM 435 Advanced Event Planning, who spent the semester studying, planning, and executing every aspect of the fundraiser. Through this hands-on experience, students gained practical skills in event design, logistics, vendor coordination, teamwork, and leadership – reflecting real-world industry expectations.
Morgan Hodgdon, a student enrolled in Advanced Event Planning shared, “The most enjoyable aspect of the planning/execution of the RHTM Student Enrichment Fundraiser was seeing all of my classes’ hard work come to life and being able to attend and participate in the event!” she stated. “I learned the most when I had the opportunity to work hands on!”
Abigail Alexander, a student enrolled in Fashion Show Management and Production reflected, “This experience taught me that confidence does not come from knowing everything immediately, but from learning how to adapt, communicate, and problem-solve effectively. Moving forward, I feel much more prepared to take initiative and lead within future professional environments.”
Proceeds from the RHTM Student Enrichment Fundraiser directly support student scholarships and high-impact experiential learning opportunities, ensuring that graduates leave the program with real-world experience, strong industry connections, and career-ready skills.
Now in its 21st year, the RHTM Student Enrichment Fundraiser continues to serve as both a signature academic experience for students and a powerful demonstration of what is possible through university–industry partnership. The evening reflects a shared commitment to education and to the future leaders of retail, hospitality, and tourism.
See more photos from the event.
About the Department of Retail, Hospitality, and Tourism Management
The Department of Retail, Hospitality, and Tourism Management at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, prepares students for dynamic careers through applied learning, industry engagement, and transformative educational experiences that bridge the classroom and the professional world.