Raines names Rick Hayduk GM of The Lantern Columbia

Raines has appointed hospitality veteran Rick Hayduk as general manager of The Lantern Columbia.

The 59-key boutique hotel marks the adaptive reuse of Columbia’s historic Central Fire Station. As opening general manager, Hayduk is responsible for building the hotel’s team from the ground up, establishing its service culture, and launching the property, which is anticipated to open in December in Columbia’s Vista neighborhood, according to a news release.

Hayduk brings a combination of experience ideally suited to The Lantern’s trailblazing model, according to Raines, including more than 35 years of leadership at upscale, independent properties.

“Rick’s expertise is the perfect match for The Lantern’s vision,” David Tart, managing partner at Raines, said in the release. “His distinguished career in upscale, independent hotels is essential for establishing The Lantern’s unique position in the Columbia market. More importantly, his proven track record of weaving mission-driven employment into the fabric of a luxury guest experience aligns perfectly with our vision. Raines fully embraces this initiative, and we are excited to use the resources of Raines to help Rick build a team that delivers exceptional hospitality while fostering a transformative, inclusive environment.”

Hayduk’s passion for inclusive hospitality was inspired by the birth of his daughter, Jamison, who has Down syndrome. His familiarity with this deeply personal journey transformed his professional focus, influencing him to create expanded career pathways for individuals with disabilities in hospitality, the release stated.

His most notable achievement in this area was serving as opening general manager of the Shepherd Hotel Clemson. There, he worked with the ClemsonLIFE program to create an innovative employment model where about 30% of the staff were comprised of individuals with disabilities. Under his leadership, the hotel achieved a top 1% guest satisfaction ranking among 100,000 Expedia hotels.

Hayduk’s career also includes executive leadership roles with prestigious brands such as Blackstone, Waldorf Astoria, The Breakers Palm Beach, and LXR Resorts & Hotels.

“The Lantern Columbia represents the perfect convergence of everything I am passionate about: exceptional, independent boutique hotels, and meaningful community impact, and employment opportunities for families like mine,” Hayduk said in the release. “I have a deep appreciation for the Columbia community and am incredibly excited about our groundbreaking collaboration with South Carolina’s College of Hospitality, Retail and Sports Management and the CarolinaLIFE program. We’re not just opening a hotel; we’re building a premier destination that will serve as a transformative force, offering life-changing career opportunities and showing the world the power of intentional hospitality.”

The Lantern Rock Hill, currently in development, is expected to open in the winter 2026.