Boyd Gaming Invests $1 Million in Norfolk State University’s Hospitality Management Program: A Game-Changer for Future Leaders | Yogonet International

Boyd Gaming is making big moves in Norfolk, Virginia. They recently donated $1 million to Norfolk State University (NSU) to support their tourism and hospitality management program. This partnership positions Boyd as the program’s title sponsor, a significant step in their collaboration with NSU.

This contribution is part of a broader alliance involving the Pamunkey Indian Tribe and Boyd Gaming, tied to their ambitious $750 million casino resort project in Norfolk. This new resort is expected to create about 850 jobs across various fields, including hospitality and gaming.

Ron Bailey, the Vice President and General Manager of Boyd’s Norfolk casino, emphasized their commitment, stating, "We are honored to expand our partnership with this pledge." NSU’s president, Dr. Javaune Adams-Gaston, also highlighted how this support will aid local workforce training and economic development.

Interestingly, Boyd Gaming’s initiative reflects a growing trend in corporate social responsibility, where businesses invest in local education to develop a skilled workforce. Reports from the National Restaurant Association note that more than 60% of employers will likely struggle to find qualified workers in the coming years—a fact that reinforces the importance of such partnerships.

As this casino project prepares to break ground, a temporary gaming facility is set to open in late 2025. The full resort will follow in late 2027, boasting 1,500 slot machines, 50 table games, and various amenities, including a hotel and live entertainment space.

This strategic investment not only aims to enhance NSU’s program but also ensures that the local economy can thrive alongside the new resort. As local communities collaborate with major corporations, the benefits can ripple out to provide better job opportunities and training for future professionals in the growing hospitality and gaming industry.

For more details about Boyd Gaming’s initiatives, you can check their official site here.

Source link