A delegation from the HAIC visits the Sanya Edition on Sept 25. [Photo/WeChat account: HAIC] 

A delegation from the Hainan University–Arizona State University International College (HAIC) led by Dean Wang Lin visited the Sanya Edition on Sept 25 for an in-depth exchange and alumni engagement activity. The delegation included faculty members, administrative staff and student representatives. 

As a luxury lifestyle brand under the Marriott Group, the Sanya Edition is renowned for its innovative design and personalized services. With 200,000 square meters of seaside resort space and an internationalized management system, the hotel offers an excellent model for experiential learning.

Guided by Hotel Manager Jordi Villegas, the HAIC delegation toured key departments including the front office, food and beverage, guest rooms and recreation facilities. Through immersive observation, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the hotel’s operational workflow — from guest experience enhancement to logistical coordination — and witnessed firsthand how sustainability concepts are embedded in the management and daily operations of high-end hospitality enterprises.

The HAIC delegation visits the Sanya Edition on Sept 25. [Photo/WeChat account: HAIC]

During the visit, the team met with two outstanding alumni currently employed at the hotel, who shared their transition from academic theory to management practice. Their career paths demonstrated the practical value of the HAIC’s international, innovative and interdisciplinary education model and reflected the growing demand for high-caliber professionals in the Hainan Free Trade Port’s cultural and tourism industries.

The HAIC delegation engages in an exchange session with Edward Yuan, general manager of the Sanya Edition and area manager of the Marriott Group. [Photo/WeChat account: HAIC] 

At the exchange session, Edward Yuan, general manager of the Sanya Edition and area manager of the Marriott Group, elaborated on the distinctions between luxury and high-end hotels, emphasizing how optimizing the guest experience effectively enhances perceived value. He remarked, “Graduates from the HAIC possess both solid professional foundations and global perspectives, aligning perfectly with our vision for future leaders in hospitality management.” 

Dean Wang Lin expressed appreciation for the hotel’s support and reaffirmed the college’s commitment to deepening collaboration with leading enterprises. She highlighted plans to expand initiatives such as the Industry Mentorship Program and Face-to-Face Salon Series to integrate teaching, internship and employment pathways and to cultivate more globally minded talents who will contribute to the upgrade of Hainan’s cultural and tourism industries. 

This visit not only strengthened the connection between the college and industry leaders but also underscored the HAIC’s dedication to serving the development of the Hainan Free Trade Port.