
Presenting 2026 Hotelie Hall of Fame Story - Richard (Dick) Nelson ’57
Published on July 29, 2026
An excerpt from Dick's story...
Richard Copeland “Dick” Nelson ’57 was one of the hospitality industry’s most admired leaders—a Hotelie whose life embodied excellence, humility, and an unwavering belief that the greatest measure of success is the people you develop. Across more than four decades with Hilton and Hyatt, and throughout his lifelong service to Cornell and the hospitality profession, Dick touched multiple generations of Hotelies, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to shape the industry today. And most importantly, he was Stella’s Prince.
