2003 Distinguished Alumni Collins School of Hospitality Management Bruce Gorelick '78, Hotel & Restaurant Management "Have a passion, surround yourself with good, bright people, and share yourself with others."

One of the first to graduate from Cal Poly Pomona's hotel & restaurant management major, Bruce Gorelick has risen through the ranks of the hospitality industry at the renowned Marriott Corporation. He is grateful to the university's esteemed program for giving him a solid foundation in his career.

"I have always remembered fondly my time at Cal Poly Pomona and have used the knowledge and guidance in my professional and personal life," he says. "To represent the university in the hospitality business is something I have always been proud to do."

Gorelick, who is Western Regional Vice President for Resort Operations, began his tenure with Marriott Corporation 24 years ago as a front desk manager just one year after graduating with his bachelor's degree. He has stayed with the company ever since.

Working at a global hospitality company, Gorelick has had the opportunity to manage hotels in different locales around the country as well as in Bermuda, sometimes being called on to "turn around" a hotel site in need. By developing good associations, creating allies, building trust, and establishing credibility, he has exhibited central traits of outstanding leadership.

Gorelick believes in Marriott Corporation's spirit of community service and has volunteered for Habitat for Humanity. He is also a former member of the board of Abbott House, a facility for children who do not live with their parents. He is eager to share his industry knowledge by mentoring Collins School students.

"I have great admiration for Collins School Dean Jim Burke and the faculty. They embrace those of us who are in the business and use us to augment the curriculum. I am honored to do what I can for this great university," Gorelick says.

His time at Cal Poly Pomona allowed him meet his wife, Sally, a psychology graduate. They have been married 24 years. He credits great mentors, great institutional learning and a supportive family with helping him attain his goals. Long-term plans include continued leadership through teaching.

"I have always thought of myself as a teacher, and it is almost time to formalize the thought," he says.