Recent GVSU Alumna Kelly Krambrink, 23, of Rochester Hills won first place in the International Institute for Quality and Ethics in Service and Tourism's International Ethics Essay contest, beating out students from the most prestigious tourism programs in the world.
Krambrink's essay, Ethics - Care for Employees, was named the first place winner in the contest. She won $1,000 and a plaque from the Switzerland-based organization.
Apparently there was no question as to the first place winner, said GVSU's Hospitality and Tourism Management Chair Richard King of Krambrink's essay.
Krambrink was graduated from GVSU in April. She is currently living in Rochester Hills.
The award was started in 1989 and has been given eight times. It is the first time a Grand Valley student has won. The essay was judged by three service and tourism professors who did not know each others' identity until after the judging was complete.
In a letter to Krambrink, IIQUEST Executive Director Stephen S.J. Hall wrote Ethics is crucial to the future success of our service and tourism industry, and we are delighted that you have emerged as a strong proponent for excellence.
GVSU's Hospitality and Tourism Management program prepares students for management positions and leadership roles in the fields of hospitality management and meeting planning. The program was established in 1977 in response to the need in the region for educational support and preparing qualified managers in the profession.
