Nandy M. Gaya, a Certified Hospitality Professional (CHP), is a seasoned academic leader whose career bridges global industry experience with educational excellence. Having worked aboard international cruise liners in the UK, Monaco, and the Philippines, he brings firsthand knowledge of world-class service to his role as Dean of the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Colegio de Sta. Teresa de Avila.
With a Master’s in Business Administration and ongoing Ph.D. studies in International Hospitality Management at Lyceum of the Philippines University, Nandy delivers a hands-on, experience-based approach to teaching cruise tourism, hotel operations, and hospitality marketing. A TESDA-accredited trainer and assessor, he holds multiple certifications in food and beverage service, housekeeping, bartending, and front office operations.
His leadership extends to speaking and research engagements at national and international conferences, including presentations in South Korea and on board M/V 2GO Masagana. As a board member of HosTCoDe (CHED NCR) and an active member of AAHRMEI, UFTE, PARTH, and the Royal Institute of Hospitality Management (Singapore), Nandy continues to elevate hospitality education with purpose, professionalism, and passion.
Discovering ITHP – When asked, “How did you discover ITHP?” Nandy shared that his introduction came through academe linkages, particularly his network within AAHRMEI. This connection opened the door to the opportunities and resources offered by the Institute of Tourism & Hospitality Professionals.
Reinforcing Industry and Academic Expertise – In response to “In what ways has being a part of ITHP contributed to your career growth?” he explained, “The bootcamp and training that was provided by ITHP and the certification has reinforced my industry and academe exposures and helped me a lot in my current position.” These experiences have been instrumental in supporting his leadership role and enhancing his contributions to the hospitality and tourism education sector.
Boosting Professional Impact in the Academe – On “How has ITHP helped you in your current professional role?” Nandy emphasized that earning his CHP designation has boosted his ability to inspire and guide future hoteliers and tourism professionals. “With ITHP and its certification as a Certified Hospitality Professional, it helped me boost my ability to perform professional role in the academe especially in motivating the future hoteliers and tourism professionals to pursue their dreams in the hospitality and tourism industry.” The certification not only validates his expertise but also empowers him to motivate students to pursue their dreams in the industry, reinforcing his mission to develop globally competitive and service-driven graduates.