Broad Spartans honored as Statler Foundation Scholars of Excellence

Two exceptional students from the Broad College’s School of Hospitality Business, Francesca Meeder (junior, hospitality business) and Eric Kleinfelt (senior, hospitality business), have been named recipients of the 2025 Statler Foundation Scholarship of Excellence, a prestigious award that recognizes top hospitality students across the nation. The scholarship offers recipients up to $25,000 each based on academic performance and financial need, helping to shape the next generation of leaders in the hotel industry.

The Scholarship of Excellence is among the most competitive awards available to hospitality students nationwide. Applicants are required to demonstrate not only academic excellence and financial need but also strong engagement in hotel-related work experiences and extracurricular leadership. The rigorous selection process includes faculty recommendations, financial aid assessments, a personal essay, and a comprehensive review of GPA, professional activities, and career aspirations, making this honor a true testament to the caliber of Broad Spartans who earn it.

Francesca Meeder, junior hospitality business and accounting major

Francesca Meeder, a junior majoring in hospitality business and accounting, shared how the award has strengthened her confidence in pursuing her career goals. For her, the scholarship represents more than just financial support,  it validates her dedication to the field and motivates her to continue excelling in her studies and future endeavors.

“Learning that I was awarded the Statler Foundation Scholarship was the highlight of my summer,” Meeder said. “This scholarship has already been a huge blessing towards my schooling in both the Eli Broad College of Business and the School of Hospitality Business. Knowing that I was selected to receive this endorsement scholarship has boosted my confidence in my future career in the hotel industry. I am so thankful for all the help that has been given me throughout my college experience and I can’t wait to put it all to good use after graduation!” 

Eric Kleinfelt, senior hospitality business major

Eric Kleinfelt, a senior in hospitality business and student supervisor at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center’s State Room, echoed similar gratitude for being recognized as a Statler Scholar. He reflected on how this award supports his academic journey, career aspirations, and professional growth.

“Being awarded this scholarship is life changing for me in so many ways beyond financial support. I am able to focus more heavily on my schoolwork and career because of the Statler Foundation’s kindness,” said Kleinfelt. “I feel more confident that I am on the right career path and trajectory because other people are also recognizing me and my dedication to learning, improving, and growing both personally and professionally.” Kleinfelt continued, “This also helps to support my future aspirations because I am more passionate and excited than ever to enter the hotel industry. I am ecstatic and ready to make a positive impact on so many others’ lives. I love being a part of this wonderful group of recipients and have so much respect for everyone they selected.”

Karthik Namasivayam, director of the School of Hospitality Business and the John and Becky Duffey Professor of Hospitality Business, expressed his pride in Francesca and Eric’s accomplishments.

“Francesca and Eric exemplify all-round student engagement and excellence. As director, I take pride in these outstanding students. They make us very proud, and I have no doubt they will be excellent ambassadors of the Statler Foundation. I am confident they will have very successful careers in hotel and lodging businesses.”

When speaking about their achievements, he noted:

“Francesca is double majoring in Hospitality Business and Accounting with an outstanding 4.0 cumulative GPA. She is an active member of the Hospitality and Lodging Club (erstwhile AHLA Student Chapter). She is also actively engaged with the student-managed fine-dining event, Les Gourmets. She has held several positions in service, having worked in service while at school.”

He continued:

“Eric achieved a cumulative GPA of 3.96 and has been an engaged member of student leadership. Eric is a very engaged student and served as the CFO to the prestigious Les Gourmets event managing a budget of about $160,000. He is also a member of the Spartan Business Golf Club, the Meetings and Event Club, Eta Sigma Delta the Hospitality honors club, and the Hospitality and Lodging Club. He has worked in the industry in roles including as front desk agent at the Montage Deer Valley and front desk student supervisor at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center.” 

The Statler Foundation Scholarship of Excellence is one of the most competitive awards in the hospitality field, designed to recognize exceptional students while easing financial burdens as they prepare for leadership in the hotel industry. For Meeder and Kleinfelt, being chosen not only fuels their academic and career ambitions but also connects them to a network of peers and professionals who share their passion for shaping the future of hospitality. 

Together, Meeder and Kleinfelt exemplify the commitment, passion, and leadership that the Statler Foundation seeks to celebrate. Their recognition not only highlights the strength of the School of Hospitality Business at Broad but also underscores the bright future of Spartans poised to make an impact in the global hospitality industry.

Learn more about the Statler Foundation Scholarship of Excellence here.