The Alfond Inn Wins the 2026 GIFTTS Pineapple Award for Philanthropy
5/18/2026
Celebrating the Preferred Hotels & Resorts GIFTTS Pineapple Award for Philanthropy and the Mission that Empowers Scholars
We believe hospitality works best when it serves a higher calling. It is with deep gratitude that we share our latest milestone: The Alfond Inn at Rollins College has received the GIFTTS Pineapple Award for Philanthropy from Preferred Hotels & Resorts.
This recognition carries immense significance, as only eight hotels across the globe were nominated for this prestigious honor. The award is part of the GIFTTS initiative—standing for Great Initiatives for Today's (Tomorrow's) Society—which recognizes Preferred member hotels that take an active role in community service, sustainability, and philanthropy. While the award resides in our lobby, the credit belongs to the people who make our mission possible every day.
Turning Hospitality into Opportunity
Our model is built on a powerful premise. Every guest experience fuels a student's future. We operate as a philanthropic engine where 100% of net profits fund scholarships for students across diverse backgrounds and academic disciplines at Rollins College.
When you enjoy a meal at Hamilton’s Kitchen, relax at The Spa, reserve our ballroom for a wedding or meeting, or invest even one dollar in an experience at The Alfond Inn, you directly invest in human potential. To date, this mission has provided full-ride scholarships for more than 80 students. These awards cover the total cost of tuition, room, and board, allowing bright minds to focus entirely on their academic pursuits.
An Intellectual Extension of Campus
The Alfond family intended for this hotel to be an extension of the Rollins campus, functioning as a center for learning that reaches beyond the classroom. Through our partnership with the Rollins Museum of Art, the hotel houses the Alfond Collection of Contemporary Art. These world-class pieces transform our hallways into an engaging educational environment. The collection encourages guests and locals alike to engage with new ideas and global perspectives during their visit, effectively bridging the gap between a luxury stay and an academic journey.
With Sincere Thanks
Philanthropy is a collective effort, and we are fortunate to have an exceptional community in our corner.
We owe a debt of thanks to the Alfond family for their transformative vision and generosity that brought the Inn to life, and to Rollins College for a partnership that changes lives for students every year. We also thank our extraordinary Alfond team for bringing their heart and passion to our guests with every interaction and making this place the warm and welcoming haven it remains for our guests and community.
Finally, we thank you. Your choice to stay, dine, or relax with us creates the impact we celebrate today. You are the essential component in an engine that turns hospitality into a life-changing opportunity.
