"Student Ambassadors of Aloha" Pilot Program Debuts at Kahului Airport
In an effort to assure a seamless departure experience for island visitors, the Maui Visitors Bureau (MVB) in conjunction with the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) and the Maui Hotel and Lodging Association (MHLA), recently introduced the "Student Ambassadors of Aloha" program at Kahului Airport. High school students from Maui's Academy of Hospitality and Tourism (AOHT) have been trained and employed to guide departing visitors to appropriate check-in areas as they leave the Magic Isle.

The students provide friendly assistance along with welcoming smiles first directing mainland-bound visitors to the oft-forgotten agricultural inspection area as well as check-in or self-check-in kiosks. They also assist in securing porter service as needed.

"This is excellent exposure for students interested in the hospitality industry," said Terryl Vencl, executive director of MVB. "We firmly believe this has the potential of 'coming full circle' in that these students may one day be employed full-time by the organizations they are coming in contact with."

Ululani Correa, executive director, MHLA, added, "'Student Ambassadors of Aloha' offers participants a clearer understanding of the business partnerships involved. Maui's success has always been the fact that our industry, community and government leaders consistently support productive, worthwhile initiatives."

The pilot program is made possible with funding from the County of Maui and the Hawaii Tourism Authority and represents a partnership between MVB, HTA, MHLA, AOHT, the State of Hawaii Airports and Agriculture divisions and various airline partners.

For more information, please call the Maui Visitors Bureau at (808) 244-3530.