The College of Charleston School of Business announces the appointment of Robert E. Frash, Jr., as chair of the department of Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM).

Frash joined the College of Charleston School of Business in 2005 after earning his Ph.D. in hospitality and tourism management at Purdue University.  Before returning to academia, Frash worked in the foodservice industry for 30 years.

“The Hospitality and Tourism Management program plays a strategic role in our long-term growth and vision for the School of Business,” says Alan T. Shao, dean of the School of Business.  “Robert’s industry knowledge and experience, professional affiliations, and leadership are essential in further developing its reputation as a high-quality, relevant program for the Charleston business community, our state and overseas academic partnerships.”

During his tenure at Purdue, Frash completed a major research study with Marriott International.  The study modeled the context and transfer relationship for blended e-learning instructional design and delivery in hospitality.  Today, his research continues to focus on human-resource issues that affect the hospitality industry.  He serves as a board member for both the Greater Charleston Restaurant Association and the Hospitality Association of South Carolina.