Michael Sabitoni (he/him)

Michael.Sabitoni@jwu.edu

Biography and Expertise

Michael J. Sabitoni, MS, CHE
College of Hospitality Management
Department Chairperson, Associate Professor
Food & Beverage Management and International Travel/Tourism Studies

Michael Sabitoni’s insight and vigorous attentiveness to industry innovation make him a popular resource within the trade circuit, both locally and nationally. A frequent speaker at national and international conferences, as well as a consultant for major hospitality industry organizations, currently, Sabitoni is the department chairperson for both the International Travel/Tourism Studies and the Food & Beverage Management departments at Johnson & Wales University’s Providence campus. Prior to entering the field of education, Sabitoni worked in both of these fields, primarily in managerial capacities, for nearly 30 years.

In terms of service, Michael is a member of the Educational Foundation Board of Directors for the Rhode Island Hospitality Association, the state’s agency advocate for all food & beverage outlets, tourism agencies, lodging establishments and related facilities. He has Emeritus status with The International Society of Travel & Tourism Educators (ISTTE), where he served as President, Vice President, and Chairman of the Board of Directors until 2014, when he was honored with the Martin Oppermann Memorial Award for Lifetime Achievement. His other accolades include being the recipient of the Visiting Scholar Award from the National Tour Association.

Sabitoni completed his education at Johnson & Wales University with a master’s degree in Hospitality Administration and a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management. In addition, he is a Certified Hospitality Educator, a designation earned from the American Hotel Lodging Association.

Sabitoni’s interests and areas of expertise, include beverage appreciation (a course in which he specializes) and travel – at last count, he had visited every country except Antarctica. My advice to incoming freshmen would be “Don’t be afraid to challenge your professors” Michael resides in Cranston, RI with his wife, Dr. Karen Silva-Sabitoni and their rescue puppy, Casside.

Education

MS
Johnson & Wales University

BA
Johnson & Wales University