UWL renames college in honour of Laurence Geller

The University of West London (UWL) has renamed its award-winning College of Hospitality and Tourism as the London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism.

The move is to honour the University Chancellor and Alumnus, Laurence Geller CBE, and celebrates the distinguished role he has played in advancing excellence in hospitality and tourism worldwide.

Laurence Geller, CBE (left) with Dean James Edmunds

Long-term experience

Geller has more than 45 years international industry experience with some of the world’s best-known brands, including Holiday Inn, Hyatt and Strategic Hotels. A committed philanthropist, he is also a prolific published author of professional articles, regularly lecturing at universities throughout the world and a pioneer in specialist educational programmes.

Chancellor Geller said: “For more than five decades, the college has set the standard for so many facets of hospitality and tourism education.

Pioneering college

“With its wide portfolio of professional and specialist courses, its pioneering and innovative research activities, and its unique ability to draw from other academic areas within the university, the college lies at the cutting edge of its field.

“I could not be prouder or more humbled to have my name associated with it and I look forward to supporting its on-going growth and successful development in the future”.

Professor Peter John, Vice-Chancellor at UWL said: “Laurence’s passion for, and commitment to, the University and his former College over the years has been remarkable, so naming the College in his honour was a natural step and I know he will not rest until this College is recognised as the leading college for hospitality and tourism in the world.”

From left: Chris Humphries, CBE (UWL’s Chair of the Board of Governors), Professor Peter John (UWL’s Vice Chancellor) with Ruth and Laurence Geller, CBE