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HGTC Executive Director of the International Culinary Institute, Joseph Bonaparte,
Named SCRLA Hospitality Educator of the Year
South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association has recognized Horry-Georgetown Technical College’s (HGTC) Executive Director of the International Culinary Institute, Joseph Bonaparte, as the 2026 Hospitality Educator of the Year during its 73rd Annual Stars of the Hospitality Industry Awards Gala.
The prestigious awards ceremony was at the Hilton Columbia Center and brought together hoteliers and restaurateurs from across the state to celebrate excellence in South Carolina’s hospitality and tourism industry. Presented by Sysco, the gala honored 18 award winners among nearly 200 attendees.
The South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association (SCRLA) represents more than 2,400 member restaurant and lodging companies and industry-related service providers. These members help make hospitality South Carolina’s second largest employer and one of the state’s most active public service industries.
The Stars of the Hospitality Industry Awards recognize individuals whose professionalism, commitment, and service elevate South Carolina’s $31 billion hospitality industry. From front-of-house professionals to executive leadership and educators, the honorees represent excellence across the workforce pipeline.
“We are incredibly proud of Chef Bonaparte and the impact he has made on our students and the broader hospitality community,” said Dr. Marilyn “Murph” Fore, president of HGTC. “This recognition reflects his dedication to excellence, his leadership within the culinary field, and his commitment to preparing the next generation of hospitality professionals who will strengthen South Carolina’s workforce.”
Under Chef Bonaparte’s leadership, HGTC’s International Culinary Institute has continued to expand partnerships with industry leaders, enhance hands-on learning opportunities, and graduate highly skilled professionals ready to meet the evolving demands of the hospitality sector.
The South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association’s annual gala celebrates the spirit of hospitality and honors the individuals who drive one of the state’s most vital economic engines. Chef Bonaparte’s recognition as Hospitality Educator of the Year highlights HGTC’s continued commitment to workforce development and industry excellence across the region and state.