The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s School of Travel Industry Management (TIM School) will celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2026, marking six decades since its founding in 1966. What began as a pioneering program in Hawaiʻi has grown into an internationally respected leader in hospitality, tourism and transportation education.
Since its inception, the TIM School has remained deeply rooted in Hawaiʻi’s unique sense of place—embracing its culture, spirit of aloha and diverse communities—while serving as a key gateway to the Asia-Pacific.
In 2019, the TIM School rejoined the Shidler College of Business, a strategic integration that has:
- Introduced more than $1.5 million in new student scholarships
- Nearly doubled the size of the faculty
- Created six new faculty endowed fellowships and professorships
- Increased rankings: No. 15 nationally and No. 46 globally among the 1,500 hospitality and tourism programs in the 2024 Quacquarelli Symondsrankings; and No. 12 nationally and No. 32 globally among the 200 programs assessed by the 2025 Shanghai Ranking
- Increased undergraduate enrollment by 4.5% from 2024 to 2025
- Awarded more than $560,000 in scholarships during the 2025–26 academic year
- Enabled more than 90% of graduates to find employment or pursue graduate study within three months of graduation
- Established the TIM PhD program, which prepares students for careers in research, teaching and service, focused on travel industry management in Asia and the Pacific
“Future graduates have a deep understanding of the importance of Hawaiʻi’s culture and the environment,” said TIM Advisory Chair Keith Vieira (BBA ’79). “That awareness will be critical to shaping visitor experiences that positively impact our communities and sustain an industry we can proudly carry forward.”
Historical TIM School photo with Dean Chuck Gee and students.
A guiding force behind the school’s global prominence was long-time leader Chuck Yim Gee, who served as dean from 1976 to 1999. Under his visionary leadership, the TIM School forged deep partnerships with the visitor industry, expanded its global engagement—particularly in the Asia-Pacific region—and championed sustainable tourism long before it became a worldwide priority. His legacy continues to influence the school’s commitment to cultural understanding, global collaboration and academic excellence.
“This 60th anniversary is a meaningful milestone that reflects the dedication, vision and aloha that have shaped the TIM School since 1966,” said Shidler College Dean Vance Roley. “As we honor our past, we look ahead to shaping a future that continues to reflect Hawaiʻi’s lasting influence as a model for hospitality, leadership and excellence worldwide.”
60th anniversary celebration
To commemorate its 60th anniversary, the TIM School will host a series of events and initiatives throughout the year that will honor the students, faculty, alumni and industry partners whose dedication has sustained the school for over six decades, culminating with the Celebrate a Legacy in Tourism event on March 31st at the ʻAlohilani Resort Waikiki Beach. The event is the TIM School’s largest fundraiser of the year in support of student scholarships
Historical photo of students before TIM Night.
This year’s event will honor Elliot Mills (BBA ’93), CEO & managing partner, Hawaii Hospitality Group, as the 2026 Legacy in Tourism honoree; induct Kylie Matsuda-Lum (BS ’01), managing director, Kahuku Farms, into the TIM Alumni Hall of Honor; and present ClimbHI—a nonprofit organization that connects students with career pathways and workforce development opportunities to help them finish high school and successfully enter post-secondary education or employment—with the Distinguished Service Award. Alumni and friends are invited to join in celebrating the enduring spirit of ʻohana that defines the TIMcommunity.
Giving opportunities
In recognition of the TIM School’s 60 years of impact, supporters are invited to invest in the next generation of hospitality, tourism and transportation leaders. Gifts of any size make a meaningful difference and will ensure that the TIM School will continue to serve as a premier resource for Hawaiʻi’s visitor industry and the international tourism community. To explore giving opportunities or contribute, visit the TIM School Giving Page. Alumni may also submit their TIM School memories and update their information online.
For more information, contact Director of Development Jennifer Lieu at Jennifer.Lieu@uhfoundation.org or (808) 956-3597.
