RIO GRANDE, Ohio — The Hospitality Management program at the University of Rio Grande/Rio Grande Community College has received a $100,000 gift from the Bob Evans Farms Foundation, designed to further develop the dynamic new program.

Rio Grande’s innovative management training program was launched in the fall and offers accredited bachelor’s and associate degrees with the opportunity for students to gain real-world experience, and course credit, while working for Bob Evans.

“Bob Evans Farms has long been a pillar of the southeastern Ohio economy, and this grant is a creative way to continue that outstanding tradition,” said Rio Grande President Dr. Barbara Gellman-Danley. “Our Hospitality Management program offers students a unique launch point into an industry that continues to thrive despite a struggling economic climate.”

Gellman-Danley said the grant allows for further development of the Hospitality Management program and increased enrollment, which will in turn improve the economic impact on the region.

The grant stems from the sale of the former Bob Evans Farms, Inc. transportation center in Bidwell, Ohio. Sold to the Gallia County-based Foster Sales and Delivery, a portion of the proceeds went to the Bob Evans Farms Foundation to continue the philanthropic spirit of company founder, Bob Evans.

“We’re so pleased to support education with this gift — a cause that was so important to our company’s founder,” said Joe Eulberg, executive vice president of Human Resources for Bob Evans Farms. “And we’re thrilled to help prepare the students of southeastern Ohio for careers in the growing hospitality industry.”

Fall 2013 enrollment for Rio’s Hospitality Management program opens March 4. Students interested can visit Rio.edu/business/Hospitality.cfm or contact the Rio Admissions Office at 800-282-7201 for more information.

The University of Rio Grande/Rio Grande Community College is the only combined private university and public community college in the country. Rio serves more than 2,400 students annually.