Who founded Graduate Hotels and when did the first location open?
Ben Weprin founded Graduate Hotels in 2014 through his firm AJ Capital Partners. The first property opened its doors in Athens, Georgia that same year.
Questions about Graduate Hotels
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What happened to Graduate Hotels in March 2024 regarding ownership?
Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. agreed to purchase the Graduate Hotels brand in March 2024. AJ Capital Partners retained ownership of all existing properties under long-term franchise agreements with Hilton.
How many Graduate Hotels operate within the United States by 2025?
The chain operates thirty-three hotels within the United States alone by 2025. Each property sits adjacent to a major academic institution across cities like Austin, Texas and Princeton, New Jersey.
When did Graduate Hotels expand internationally and where were the first locations?
The expansion beyond U.S. borders began in 2021 with entries into England. Two new locations opened that year: one in Cambridge near the University of Cambridge and another in Oxford next to the University of Oxford.
Which historic building houses the Graduate Providence location and what is its history?
The Graduate Providence location originally opened in 1922 as the Providence Biltmore before becoming part of the chain. The company acquires these older structures and remodels them into modern hospitality spaces while preserving their architectural character.