(June 4, 2009, New Orleans, La.) - The University of New Orleans, Lester E. Kabacoff School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Administration has received a gift of $110,000 from Gloria Kabacoff for the production laboratory, the fourth phase of the HRT Lab renovation. Mrs. Kabacoff is the widow of the school's namesake who was a pioneer in the region's hospitality industry.

"This generous gift by Mrs. Kabacoff will complete sustantial improvements to our lab and provide a truly state-of-the-art lab experience for our students," said John Williams, professor and director of the UNO Kabacoff School of HRT. "I speak on behalf of our faculty, staff and students in conveying our sincerest thanks for this wonderful contribution to our lab."

The first three stages of the renovation project are: the outdoor courtyard, dining room and demonstration lab.