Dover Honored as FSU Dedman School of Hospitality Alumnus of the Year

Annually, the Dedman School of Hospitality of Florida State University honors one of its graduates who has made notable contributions to the school, the industry and the nominee’s employer, and has served as a role model for students and alumni by his or her behavior and accomplishments, to be honored as Alumnus of the Year.  

This year, Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) will be the recipient of this prestigious award. Dover has worked in the hospitality industry for more than 30 years and has lobbied for business-friendly laws that support the number-one job producer in the Sunshine State. Dover credits the education she received while attending FSU’s Dedman School of Hospitality as a major factor in her success. In 2004, Dover was also inducted into the Dedman School of Hospitality Hall of Fame.  

The Dedman School of Hospitality boasts a nearly 100% job placement rate for its students within three months of graduation.  This year, Dover, as Dedman’s Alumnus of the Year, plans to bring attention to the benefits of hospitality education through the Association’s Educational Foundation program.  FRLA’s Educational Foundation trains more than 20,000 Florida high school students every year using the ProStart Culinary Education Program and the Lodging Management Program (LMP).  

In addition to educating the public about programs like ProStart, LMP, and the Dedman School, Dover will continue to remind the public and lawmakers of the tremendous impact the hospitality industry has on the economy of our state.

The gala honoring Dover will be held at FSU’s University Center Club in Tallahassee on the evening of October 12, 2012.