Larry Pimentel Joined FIU as Cruise Executive
The industry veteran will lead a new cruise advisory board at the university.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Cruises
Live Poll
Do you believe partnerships between universities and industry leaders improve the quality of student education?
FIU has appointed veteran travel executive Larry Pimentel as its new cruise executive in residence. He will oversee a newly formed advisory board to align academic programs with the needs of the cruise industry.
Why it matters
As the cruise capital of the world, Miami relies on a steady pipeline of talent and research to sustain its maritime economy. This partnership aims to bridge the gap between classroom instruction and the complex demands of the travel business.
Pimentel brings three decades of industry experience to the residency, drawing on leadership roles at lines including Cunard, Seabourn, and Azamara. The university has yet to release the specific timeline for new research initiatives under his tenure.
The players
Larry Pimentel
The newly appointed cruise executive in residence at FIU who has spent three decades in the travel industry.
Florida International University
The Miami-based academic institution hosting the new cruise executive advisory board.
The details
Pimentel will lead a cruise executive advisory board featuring leadership from major players like Carnival Corporation, Royal Caribbean International, and Norwegian Cruise Line. The group also includes representatives from MSC Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, and smaller luxury firms such as Ponant Expeditions. The role is designed to foster a knowledge center at the university that focuses on both academic research and workforce development for the maritime sector.
Timeline
September 29, 2026: The appointment was confirmed.
Beyond the 305
This residency aligns with the strategic focus of FIU's Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management on industry-specific expertise. It builds on the university's existing partnerships to solidify Miami's role as the primary training hub for global cruise operations.
Students and those seeking careers in the maritime industry can expect a sharper alignment between their coursework and current travel business practices. The advisory board's involvement may also lead to new internship opportunities with major cruise lines operating out of PortMiami.
The takeaway
The addition of an executive-led board at FIU highlights the growing importance of specialized academic training for the local cruise workforce. Residents interested in the industry should watch for upcoming public lecture series or forums hosted by the new knowledge center.
Further reading
For more on the local maritime economy and regional port activity, visit our Cruises section.
Live Poll
Do you believe partnerships between universities and industry leaders improve the quality of student education?
