UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Patrick Howley has recently been selected as director of industry and alumni relations for the Penn State School of Hospitality Management. Howley will develop strategic partnerships and initiatives between the school and businesses in the hospitality industry. 

Howley will represent the Penn State School of Hospitality Management at a variety of industry events, serve as liaison between the school and professional societies in the industry, and represent the school at college and University alumni events. In addition, he will manage activities between the school and its partners, including the Penn State Hotel and Restaurant Society (PSHRS), the Industry Advisory Board, ENTI Industry Allies, Conti Professorships, and activities involving friends of the school. 

Howley arrives at the University after a decade managing a number of hotel properties, most recently as general manager of the Drury Plaza Hotel in downtown Cleveland, Ohio.  

This position is a homecoming for Howley, who graduated with a degree in hotel, restaurant and institutional management from Penn State in 2012. 

“The chance to serve as director of industry and alumni relations has been a dream of mine for a number of years,” Howley stated. “Being able to give back to a university that provided me with the education and experience needed to be a successful leader in the service industry is an incredible opportunity. I look forward to working closely with our groups of both internal and external stakeholders to contribute to the upward trajectory of the School of Hospitality Management.” 

Donna Quadri-Felitti, Marvin Ashner Director and associate professor of the School of Hospitality Management, stated “I’m extremely excited to welcome Pat Howley to Penn State. Pat joins us with a successful hotel sales and hotel management career during which he was consistently identified as a strong leader, serving in multiple markets for various Drury Hotels brands.  

“Pat’s previous experience with Marriott International managing several university-affiliated properties, such as the Hotel UMass, enhances his ability to serve as liaison between the Penn State School of Hospitality Management, its academic program, and its relationships with the hospitality industry at large in service to our mission,” Quadri-Felitti continued. 

Howley said he looks forward to working alongside faculty and staff who are helping shape the next generation of hospitality leaders. 

“The lessons and guidance provided by the School of Hospitality Management instill the values and experience needed to succeed in an ever-changing industry, and I can’t wait to have even the smallest of hands continuing that tradition of excellence. Our industry, at the end of the day, is all about people helping people, which is seen each and every day in the School of Hospitality Management,” said Howley.