28th Annual Travel and Dining Auction
An Unforgettable Auction, Led by the Future of Hospitality
The Travel and Dining Auction (TDA) isn’t just an event—it’s a student-powered experience that transforms education into opportunity. Organized by the passionate students of the Department of Hospitality Management at Kansas State University, this annual auction fuels hands-on learning, sending future hospitality leaders to industry-leading conferences, networking events, and immersive experiences that shape their careers.
Why does it matter?
Because every bid directly impacts a student’s future. Just ask those who have benefited:
"I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities provided by my school and the TDA Auction. With their support, I had the privilege of attending IMEX in Las Vegas and IAAPA in Orlando. These experiences have truly opened my eyes to the vast world of hospitality."
— Amber Perez, Class of 2025
“Funds from TDA sent me to the International Meeting Expo (IMEX) in Las Vegas. That experience led to an internship with VisitHouston, connecting me with professionals, shaping my career, and even helping me decide where I want to live!”
— Claire Bankes, Class of 2025
Tickets
Purchase for tickets to the auction.
Early Bird Special : $40 per Ticket, $300 per Reserved Table for 8
Later Pricing (Starting March 25): $45 per Ticket, $325 per Reserved Table of 8
Day of Pricing : $50 per Ticket, $360 per Reserved Table of 8.
Time
Saturday, April 12, 2025 (6:00 p.m- 9:00 p.m); Hilton Garden Inn Conference Center, Manhattan, KS (401 S. 3rd St, Manhattan, Kansas, 66502). Follow us on Facebook for all the latest news and updates.
(Video credit: Lia Nickel)
History
The Kansas State Travel and Dining Auction is the largest student fundraiser in the College of Health and Human Sciences. The event has been offered as a class ever since the spring of 2009. Our students are able to learn hands-on what goes into planning, organizing, and executing a large event. Students must apply, interview, and be selected in order to enroll in the class and become part of that year’s Travel and Dining Auction Team. Once the spring semester begins, students get to work on the Auction right away; they’re placed into committees, solicit for donations, design marketing materials, and so much more. Some students who have done the Auction in past years choose to come back as Team Leaders, taking on more administrative duties and guide the team to another successful year.
Beneficiaries
Each year, proceeds from the auction are used to fund student scholarships as well as support the Hospitality Management Club and Hospitality Management Graduate Club. Students involved in these organizations are not only a part of an on-campus club, but are also affiliated with student chapters of national organizations including the National Restaurant Association of America, Meeting Professionals International, Club Managers Association of America, and Professional Convention Management Association. Through these organizations and student scholarships, our students have opportunities to succeed both inside and outside the classroom, network with professionals, and get hands-on experiences in the hospitality industry.
How You Can Make an Impact:
💜 Donate an auction item (travel, dining, experiences)
💜 Become a Sponsor (showcase your business)
💜 Join the Auction & Bid!
Making a Donation
We greatly value your ongoing support for K-State's Hospitality Management's Travel and Dining Auction. If you are interested in making a donation to the auction, kindly consider completing the form. Please send any physical donation items to the address stated below.
Travel and Dining Auction
Attn: Cindy Lerick
152 Justin Hall
Manhattan, KS 66506-1403
For any questions, comments, or concerns regarding donations, feel free to email Cindy Lerick or call at 314-614-7152. We appreciate your continued support of K-State's Hospitality Management's Travel and Dining Auction.