The National Society for Minorities in Hospitality (NSMH) recently named Kadiyatu Mayah, junior HRTM minor to the 2023-2024 National Executive Board as the National Public

Relations Director. She will lead and curate content for the 107 university chapters across the nation. Additionally, she will be responsible for writing press releases, selecting and organizing content for collateral material such as the INFORMER Newsletter, brochures, calendar of events, etc., as well as coordinating NSMH participation in industry trade shows, and creating content for media promotion.

Founded in 1989, NSMH aims to educate, encourage, and empower minority students interested in pursuing hospitality careers. With well over 107 chapters nationwide, the organization is committed to providing resources, tools, and information to assist students in their endeavors to succeed in the hospitality industry and work closely with industry partners in developing diverse, inclusive, and supportive environments.

“As a Liberian American while being raised in Upper Darby, PA, I’ve learned to be as creative as I can, always stay true to myself and to walk into every room with purpose,” said Mayah. She asserts that she has always had a passion for connecting with people through meaningful conversation and realized that her love for this industry grew as she attended events and connected with people from various backgrounds and spaces within the hospitality industry. There is a quote from Maya Angelou that Kadiyatu lives by, which also exemplifies the essence of the hospitality industry: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” As a result of her positive experiences with the HRTM program, Kadiyatu’s hope is to positively impact the perception of current and new students alike regarding what the hospitality industry entails. It is her hope to effectively showcase the benefits of joining the HRTM program and, by extension, a prestigious organization like NSMH. “It is also my intention to graciously serve as a dedicated team member of the national board,” said Mayah.

“We are so proud of Kadiyatu,” said Krystal Peters, Program Coordinator, Professor of the Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management Program and NSMH advisor. “Not only has she represented herself as a stellar hospitality scholar, but she has represented Cheyney University masterfully on a national stage.”

This prestigious appointment comes by way of an election process that took place early last week, and features hospitality and tourism students around the country who display exemplary leadership, academic achievement, awareness of the NSMH’s mission, vision and a commitment to service.