NAF Academy of Hospitality and Tourism

Empowering students for global careers in travel, tourism, and event management.

Welcome to Our Academy

The Academy of Hospitality and Tourism (AOHT) at Brooklyn Nexus High school prepares students for exciting careers in travel, tourism, hotel management, culinary services, event planning, and recreation. As a certified NAF Academy, our curriculum is built in partnership with industry professionals to ensure students develop real-world skills, professional experiences, and a global mindset.

📘What Makes NAF Special?

Through our partnership with the National Academy Foundation (NAF), students gain access to:

  • Industry-Aligned Curriculum – NAF's project-based courses reflect real workplace scenarios in hospitality and tourism.
  • Work-Based Learning – Students participate in internships, job shadows, and site visits with leading industry employers.
  • Scholarship Opportunities – Graduating NAF students can apply for NAF-sponsored scholarships and exclusive college awards.
  • Student Recognition – Students who complete all required coursework, internship hours, and the final assessment receive the prestigious NAFTrack Certification, recognized by employers nationwide.
Learn more about NAF Academies

🏫 Featured Course: Principles of Hospitality and Tourism

This foundation course provides a full introduction to the hospitality and tourism industry — exploring its sectors, history, sustainability, economic impact, and marketing strategies.

  • Introduction to the Industry
  • Environmental Impact
  • Economic Impact of Tourism
  • Lodging Industry
  • Food and Beverage Services
  • Entertainment and Event Planning
  • The Cruise Industry
  • Air and Ground Transportation
  • Marketing and Sales
  • Digital & Internet Marketing in Hospitality

📖 This course is the first in a sequence of NAF-approved courses that includes Marketing, Sports & Entertainment Planning, Hospitality Services, and Event Management.

🏆 Certifications: NOCTI Hospitality & Tourism Credential

Students enrolled in our academy are prepared to take the NOCTI (National Occupational Competency Testing Institute) Exam in Hospitality and Tourism. This nationally recognized credential validates a student’s mastery in:

  • Guest Services
  • Event Coordination
  • Travel & Tourism
  • Lodging Industry
  • Marketing
  • Safety & Legal Regulations
  • Cultural Awareness in Tourism
Learn more about NOCTI

🏫 College Articulation Agreements

Our school maintains articulation and pathway agreements with hospitality programs at the following institutions:

  •  CUNY School of Professional Studies – BS in Hospitality Management
  •  New York City College of Technology (City Tech) – AAS in Hospitality Management
  •  Monroe College – BBA in Hospitality & Tourism Management
  •  SUNY Delhi – BS in Hotel & Resort Management
Four-Term Course Sequence

🎓 College & Career Pathways

Graduates of our program can pursue a range of postsecondary and career opportunities, including:

Career Role Description Avg. U.S. Salary*
Hotel Front Desk Agent Assist guests with reservations and check-in/out services $32,000
Event Coordinator Organize conferences, weddings, and corporate events $53,000
Travel Consultant Plan personalized travel experiences for clients $49,000
Hospitality Marketing Associate Promote services for resorts, events, or destinations $55,000
Food & Beverage Manager Oversee restaurant or catering operations $63,000
Cruise Line Staff Serve guests aboard major cruise brands Varies
Concierge or Guest Services Manager Manage secure cloud environments $92,000
Digital Forensics Assistant Handle personalized services in hotels $44,000

🧩Work-Based Learning Opportunities

Students in the academy benefit from career-connected learning experiences such as:

  • Hotel and restaurant site visits (e.g., Hilton, Marriott, local venues)
  • Event planning collaborations with school and community partners
  • Paid internships through NYC DOE WBL or NAFTrack partners
  • Virtual or in-person mentorships with hospitality professionals

📥How to Join

Students may apply for the NAF Hospitality & Tourism Academy beginning in 9th or 10th grade. Entry requirements include:

  • Interest in service, travel, leadership, and global industries
  • Commitment to completing the course sequence
  • Participation in internships or WBL experiences
  • Attendance at special events, tours, or competitions

Instructors

Durani Koenig

Teacher

Visit Our School

Experience our school community firsthand. Schedule a visit to explore our campus, meet our staff, and learn more about the programs and opportunities available to our students.

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