A groundbreaking ceremony was recently held for the new VIM hotel on the campus of Montana State University. The hotel, a partnership between MSU and Lone Mountain Land Company, is a significant development for both the university and the Bozeman community.

A Fusion of Hospitality and Education

The VIM hotel is more than just a place for visitors to stay; it's a "teaching hotel" designed to provide hands-on experience for students in MSU's hospitality and culinary arts programs. Students will have the opportunity to work alongside seasoned professionals in a real-world setting, gaining invaluable skills in hotel management, culinary arts, marketing, and more. This innovative approach will help to prepare the next generation of leaders for Montana's growing hospitality industry.

The hotel's name, "VIM," is inspired by the MSU fight song, "Stand Up and Cheer," reflecting the energy and spirit of the university. The five-story hotel will feature 138 rooms and suites, event and meeting spaces, a restaurant, and other amenities. It will be a Marriott Hotels franchise, ensuring a high-quality experience for guests.

A Partnership for the Future

The VIM hotel is a public-private partnership, with the hotel being privately owned and operated on land leased from MSU. This collaboration between the university and private enterprise is a testament to the shared commitment to education and economic development in the Gallatin Valley. The project is expected to be completed in the fall of 2027.

The addition of the VIM hotel to the MSU campus will not only enhance the educational experience for students but also provide a new and convenient lodging option for visitors to the university and the Bozeman area. It is a welcome addition to the campus and a promising development for the future of hospitality in Montana.