Presenting Hotelie Hall of Fame Story - Jim Eyster ’69
An excerpt from Jim's story...
Jim’s life journey is the gold standard for human beings who inspired others. He was a life-long learner who was always seeking a better way forward, a gentle mentor to all who wanted to impact others by lifting their aspirations, an educator who taught the next generations of leaders how to lead in hospitality and related industries as well as in society.
Jim’s wide-ranging influence has been felt as he fulfilled his life’s purpose. Jim taught courses in financial management and real estate. He followed politics closely and was very concerned about the social and political injustices of the world as well as with human pain and suffering. To make a difference, he courageously initiated the course entitled Housing and Feeding the Homeless. He received a Chaired Professorship, the HVS Professor of Hotel Finance and Real Estate and became a Professor Emeritus at the Hotel School upon his retirement. His Ph.D. centered on a study of hotel management contracts and evolved into worldwide consulting work, and he was sought after by many of the leading hotel owners and management companies. His book, “The Negotiation and Administration of Hotel and Restaurant Management Contracts,” has become the go-to book for the industry. His consulting work led to a longstanding relationship with the United States National Park Service, which held a special place in Professor Eyster’s heart. He loved nature and the outdoors. He served as the chair for ten years of the National Park Service’s Concessions Management Advisory Board.