Javier F. Nolla ’14, MS ’20, left, with Chaplin School Dean Michael Cheng

Alumnus’ efforts in support of Chaplin School rewarded with dean’s office naming

January 26, 2026 at 12:56pm

The Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management has named it dean’s suite for a generous donor. Javier F. Nolla ’14, MS ’20 stepped up for his alma mater in a big way. He has personally pledged financial support over the next five years for student scholarships.

“The education I received here played a great part in making today’s event possible,” said Nolla during a recent ceremony on the second floor of the school’s signature building at the Biscayne Bay Campus. Nolla was joined by his wife Isabel, father Francisco, mother Yolanda and brother Manny.

“Javier understands the importance that monetary gifts make to students and how scholarships can help alleviate financial burden and help that student make it to graduation day,” said Michael Cheng, Chaplin School dean and professor.

Javier F. Nolla ’14, MS ’20 is joined by his family as they celebrate the the naming of the dean’s suite at the Chaplin School in recognition of his financial contributions in support of students.

Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in South Florida, Nolla took a path shaped by both challenge and opportunity. As a student, he experienced firsthand the financial pressures that so many other students face, relying on scholarships and a tight budget to complete his education.

One particular scholarship supported his attendance at the National Restaurant Association show in Chicago, where he gained invaluable networking opportunities that he says were crucial to his career goals in restaurant and culinary management. He also got his feet wet as a culinary coordinator at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival®, another example of how hands-on experience through the university can lead to more.

After earning two degrees, Nolla quickly distinguished himself in the industry. He is executive director for several prestigious venues in Orlando, among them London House Private Members Club, the Bond Room Nightclub and Big Fin Seafood Restaurant Nolla’s leadership is marked by innovation. At Big Fin Seafood, for example, he has championed sustainability by partnering with local Florida fishermen, ensuring a “boat to table” experience that benefits both the environment and the community.

And at FIU, his impact is growing. He reconnected with the school some years ago through reunions and networking events made possible with a gift from Class of 1975 alumnus, John McKibon and his wife, Letitia.

Now Nolla is the chair of the fundraising committee of the McKibbon ’75 Alumni Experience board.

Movers and shakers at the recent “McKibbon ’75 Alumni Experience” event that celebrated philanthropy and the recent naming of the dean’s suite: Luis Rivera ’15; Candice Imam ’04, director, Alumni Relations, Chaplin School; Darling Jarquin ’21; Marla Oliu ’09, MS ’13; Professor Emeritus Rocco Angelo; Leslie Weil ’02; Sean Tasker ’01; Mychal Milian ’11, MS ’21; Javier F. Nolla ’14, MS ’20; Henry Brimo ’16

Looking ahead, he aspires to share hard-earned wisdom with the next generation of hospitality professionals. His philosophy is clear: Hospitality is a universal skill, relevant across industries from international business to law. He sees endless opportunities for those willing to work hard and embrace the spirit of service.

“If you show up, put the hours and do the work, there is compensation to be had. More so than anything it’s networking. FIU affiliations got me along the way,” he ended.

Nolla encourages other FIU alumni to give back in any way they can. He plans to come back to campus to visit the dean’s office that he can now call his home away from home.