SPRING 2020

the magazine of the unlv harrah college of hospitality

A PROGRESSIVE NEW CURRICULUM PR0MISES MORE CHOICES FOR STUDENTS AND MORE TALENT FOR AN INDUSTRY EMBRACING CHANGE

ALSO

01 AHEAD OF THE GAME

02 RICHES TO RAGS AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN

03 AND THE SURVEY SAYS ... In 46 This Issue

5 From the Dean 16 22 8 College News FEATURE FEATURE Changing Course Keeping Tradition Alive 36 Take It From Our Alumni

42 Beyond the Classroom

44 On the Job: Interns Report

55 Donor Honor Roll

26 34

IN GOOD TASTE CHECKING IN

Serving Up Excellence Facing the Future of Technology [The college] has made it our mission to remain in step premier magazine with the industry SPRING 2020 by emulating A UNLV William F. Harrah College of Hospitality publication their commitment unlv.edu/hospitality to reinvention.

Editor-in-Chief GLOBAL ADVISORY BOARD Angela Ramsey Dean Stowe Shoemaker would like Assistant Editor to thank the following volunteers for serving Caitlyn Lopez on the Dean’s Global Advisory Board: Designer Jeff Baldi, House Advantage Maureen Adamo Elizabeth Blau, Blau & Associates Photographers Cath Burns, Gaming Consultant Josh Hawkins, Lonnie Timmons III Andrew Cherng, Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. Contributing Writer/Editor Russ Dazzio, R&R Global Hospitality – Gaming Matt Jacob Paula Eylar-Lauzon, Boyd Gaming Corporation (retired) Other Contributors Carlos A. Fabbri, Sobel Westex From the Dean Dean Stowe Shoemaker Marc Falcone, MF Ventures Maggie Hausbeck Douglas Fryett, Fryett Consulting Group The winds of change are blowing strong in both Jeffrie Jones Robert Grimes, ConStrata Tech Consulting the hospitality industry and academia Alexandra Liebman David Hanlon, Executive Hospitality Partners, LLC Craig Granger (graphics) Ann Hoff, MGM Resorts International Connie Palen (photography) Thomas A. Jingoli, Konami Gaming, Inc. Evan Luecke (photography) Chuck Lehman, BAMBU Technologies Diana Lerma, Stokes Wagner Edward Mady, The Beverly Hills Hotel and Bungalows hether you call moving into a new, state- students more choices For questions, suggestions, or to submit Anthony L. Martin, Ogletree Deakins it an evolution or of-the-art academic relative to their passions, address changes, please contact: a revolution, the building. What you may and faculty more room to Dean McClain, McClain Consulting Group [email protected] hospitality industry not be aware of is that adjust course offerings Jordan Meisner, Hyatt Hotels Corporation Wis definitely going through one. Once we’ve recently completed as the industry continues Eileen Moore, Caesars Entertainment Cover photo by Josh Hawkins considered almost exclusively the hotel/ a full-scale redesign of to evolve. Timothy Muir, Focus Brands restaurant business, the industry has our hospitality curriculum, Dean Stowe Shoemaker, Ph.D. These are necessary Jacob Oberman, Rush Street Gaming exploded into multiple sectors such which is launching in the measures at a time when Aaron Rosenthal, Tropicana Las Vegas as integrated resorts, theme parks, Fall 2020 Semester (see “Changing Course,” being viable and valuable means staying HARRAH COLLEGE Susie Southgate-Fox, Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises, Inc. entertainment, destination marketing Page 16). relevant and responsive. We owe it to our OF HOSPITALITY Lincoln Spoor, Feel Good Brands Inc. organizations (DMOs), meeting-incentive- This is truly a watershed moment students to increase their marketability, Faisal Sublaban, Bonotel Exclusive Travel conference-exhibitions (MICE), sports and for the college, but the process wasn’t and we owe it to the industry to provide Josh Swissman, Stations Casinos LLC events, and even museums. easy. We worked closely with industry a workforce that not only can make an Rikki Tanenbaum, San Manuel Casino The Harrah College of Hospitality has leaders over several years to identify the immediate organizational impact, but made it our mission to remain in step specific professional competencies that also have the knowledge, skills, and with the industry by emulating their the industry now seeks in employees, dispositions to move up the chain commitment to reinvention. We do this today as well as those they believe will of command. by serving not only as educators, but also be crucial for the future. Our faculty then Make no mistake: The winds of change as surveyors of trends and champions of worked tirelessly to shape a curriculum in the hospitality industry are blowing opportunities. If you’ve been following that would deliver these highly-coveted strong. And as the industry continues to the college, you know that we’ve recently knowledge, skills, and dispositions to the evolve, so too will the William F. Harrah undergone a wholesale transformation— student. Furthermore, the college built College of Hospitality. changing the name of our college and flexibility into the new curriculum to give

PHOTO BY ERIC JAMISON 4 SPRING 2020 SPRING 2020 5 FRONT OF HOUSE FRONT OF HOUSE

Recent Honors When they’re not busy doing research, teaching students, and serving on committees, Harrah College of Hospitality faculty are being recognized as leaders in the industry

Career and Alumni Services Unite!

After 12 years of focusing on internships and career readiness for hospitality students, the college’s Boughner Career Center has Beverage Lab Gets a evolved to encompass alumni relations. The Makeover change aligns with a university-level shift that merged career and alumni services The Southern Glazer’s Wine & functions to enhance engagement across the board. The Bob Boughner Center for Career Spirits Beverage Academy in & Alumni Services is charged with providing NHLA Women in Lodging Member of Best Paper Award Hospitality Hall received an connections for students and graduates, the Year (2019) BILLY BAI anticipated upgrade in summer promoting internship and recruitment TONI REPETTI Professor Billy Bai’s co-authored paper, “Virtual opportunities over our wide alumni network, Hospitality College Assistant Professor Dr. Toni Reality in Hotel Commercials: An Experimental 2019. Used for teaching and supporting the college’s alumni family. Repetti received the 2019 Women in Lodging Study of Advertising Effectiveness,” received and hosting campus and Member of the Year Award from the Nevada the Best Paper Award at the July 2019 ICHRIE Hotel & Lodging Association (NHLA). The Conference in New Orleans. community events, the space award, presented at the NHLA Gala Dinner & has been fitted with a custom Awards ceremony October 17, 2019, recognizes Golf Professional of the Year stationary counter, two mobile a member of the NHLA Women in Lodging KENDALL MURPHY division who has contributed substantially Instructor Kendall Murphy was named Golf bars, two EuroCave wine cellars to the growth, productivity, and visibility of Professional of the Year (2019) by the Southern (with capacity to hold more Women in Lodging. Nevada chapter of the PGA. than 165 bottles), cabinetry Horton Smith Award Research Assistantship Grant with display shelving, and CHRIS CAIN AMANDA BELARMINO AND enhanced lighting. Special The Southwest PGA honored Dr. Chris Cain CASS SHUM thanks to our donor Southern as its 2019 winner of the Horton Smith Award, Assistant professors Amanda Belarmino and recognizing a PGA professional who serves as a Cass Shum received UNLV’s Top Tier Doctoral Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, model educator. Graduate Research Assistantship Grant, architect Carpenter Sellers Del which provides funding for a doctoral research Gatto, and installer McCarthy assistant for up to three years. Building Companies. Toni Repetti (L) and award sponsor Lynn Gray from Standard Textile

PHOTO COURTESY OF RONNA TIMPA 6 SPRING 2020 SPRING 2020 7 COLLEGE NEWS AHEAD OF THE GAME

Students of the college’s PGA golf management program learn hospitality principles while perfecting their game.

that UNLV’s Golf Management program is the only one in which students major in hospitality also appealed to the PGA of America’s leadership team. “We have a leading hospitality management program at UNLV,” says Chris Cain, director of UNLV’s PGA Golf Management University Program. “We’ve been doing this for several decades … so we had the expertise, we had the industry connections, and we had a mechanism to make this work—to actually deliver a product.” Cain served on the PGA’s national education committee for six years and thus was aware that the organization’s curriculum was shifting with the times. Therefore, he was the ideal point person for researching and devising a continuing- education program that would best suit the PGA’s needs. “I knew the [golf] market was demanding a different type sk any business owner, America’s leadership team—in an effort to organization is going to lure younger The PGA of America’s decision to of operator, one who was really good at big or small, and they’ll tweak its business model to better fit with consumers whose desires and habits differ partner with the Hospitality College in managing golf but also knew some other tell you some version of contemporary times—went searching for from those of older generations. Also, just developing the co-branded certificate stuff,” he says. “And that ‘other stuff’— the following: Not every some assistance. Ultimately, that search as resort-casinos around the turn of the program made perfect sense, as the two that gap—was hospitality. So the PGA of business is destined to succeed, but those led them to the UNLV William F. Harrah century began shifting their revenue focus entities have a longstanding relationship: A America changed the whole curriculum that refuse to evolve and adapt with the College of Hospitality and its Sands Center away from gaming and toward elements Since 2002, UNLV has been home to one of Ahead of for its entire program. Now, for the first times are doomed to failure. This universal for Professional Development. like dining, shopping, and nightclubs, just 18 PGA Golf Management University time in 103 years, there are three paths to truth applies to everything from the mom- Launched a little more than five the golf industry is looking for ways to Programs, which educate and train earning PGA membership: teaching and the Game and-pop shop that opened last week to the years ago as the College of Hospitality’s maximize its non-golf revenue potential tomorrow’s golf professionals. The fact coaching, golf operations, and executive established organization whose history professional education arm, the Sands through food, beverage, events, and management. And that executive stretches back to Woodrow Wilson’s first Center has rapidly established itself as elevated customer-service experiences. Looking toward a progressive management is where we fit in.” presidential term. a leader in creating and administering So the idea was to provide the PGA’s future, the PGA of America The certificate program that’s offered The Professional Golfers’ Association online workforce development courses 24,000 members with the opportunity The Sands Center partners with the Hospitality through the Sands Center is open to all of America certainly slots in the latter that combine academic theory and to enroll in an online program designed College’s Sands Center for PGA executives who have at least five years category: Founded in 1916, the PGA of industry expertise. Through non-degree to broaden their skill set, improve their has rapidly Professional Development of work experience and a desire to pursue America was directly responsible for certificate programs, the center offers job performance, and put them on an to launch online continuing a career in executive leadership or general growing the game and business of golf various hospitality professionals a chance upwardly mobile career path. “We feel established itself management in the golf industry. Those education program from coast to coast throughout the 20th to gain critical knowledge that allows this program will further position [our who enroll in the program are required century. But as cultural dynamics began them to successfully operate in an ever- members] for success in their business as a leader in by Matt Jacob to complete multiple online courses to shift in the new millennium, the highly changing world while remaining a step and career,” says Dawes Marlatt, the creating online and application exercises, as well as a successful organization suddenly found ahead of the competition. PGA’s senior director for educational and culminating experience. All of the material itself in the figurative rough, its ball The PGA of America believed this organizational development. “The focus workforce relates specifically to various hospitality nestled against the base of a massive tree. type of continuing education was vital is on the total [golf] enterprise through management disciplines. So much like a golfer would ask a for its executive members because golf’s strategies that will grow the top line as development “The thought behind the program was, caddy to help guide him out of such core customer base is getting older, so well as maintain operational excellence for ‘What can we do to train our members— a precarious predicament, the PGA of philosophical changes are needed if the bottom-line results.” courses.

8 SPRING 2020 PHOTO BY R. MARSH STARKS SPRING 2020 9 COLLEGE NEWS CAPTAIN AL SETS SAIL

those who are already serving the industry, education] courses where a member can certificate program to be a difference- those who are between 35 and 65 years go online for a few hours and get a better maker for his organization, Cain believes old who already have degrees, who are understanding of, say, what revenue its success will also heighten awareness Captain Al already PGA members, and already management or turf management might of the Sands Center for Professional on the executive management career be,” he says. “But to have a turnkey program Development. And with greater awareness Sets Sail into path?’” Cain says. “And what can we do where a number of courses are offered comes the potential for greater impact— to continue to close the gap in some along with application exercises and a on both the Hospitality College and the Al’s Class competencies that they may not have so culminating experience—one that’s very industry in general. Retirement they can lead an enterprise that’s not just similar to what a master’s student might do “What the PGA project has done is give Notes golf, but everything—events, food and when they develop a thesis—it’s the first of the Sands Center a better sense of how When it comes to saying goodbye beverage, promotion, sales, and customer its kind. And it’s going to be differentiator important it can be to our industry,” he to UNLV legend Al Izzolo, Friends, students, and satisfaction—on a grander scale?” for PGA of America members who are says. “We had a leading organization in Hospitality College graduates colleagues comment As with all certificate programs interested in executive management.” golf reach out to this college for expertise aren’t going quietly into the night on Izzolo’s career, offered through the Sands Center, each The program, which Cain estimates will and professional development. And this retirement, and PGA course was developed primarily by take about three months for students to product that we’re providing has already by Angela Ramsey Hospitality College faculty. Those faculty finish, went through pilot testing during attracted other clients to the Sands Center.” impact on their lives. members also designed the rubric that the 2019 fall semester and is scheduled to “We’ll be offering online degrees PGA faculty will use to evaluate open- officially roll out in 2020. Already, though, soon—we already have an online master’s BACK IN THE EARLY ’90s, ended assessments and, ultimately, the PGA of America is pleased with the degree—and those are great; those are we were a much smaller determine if individuals successfully product. “We’ve been extremely satisfied credit-bearing degrees that are extremely college, and as such, students complete what Cain calls a novel program. with the collaboration and educational valuable. But what the Sands Center can o say Al Izzolo is well known had the opportunity to know “The PGA of America has had universities design throughout the development provide is a very quick and nimble approach is a gross understatement. faculty very well. Al was the help them with developing [continuing process, and the final certificate program to very specific needs that industry has for Even when his legions professor you went to when met all of our expectations,” Marlatt development of staff. It speaks so loudly of former students don’t you wanted candid feedback. says. “Our goal is to recruit the best and to the need for lifelong learning and for Timmediately recognize him, it doesn’t take Never one to sugarcoat his brightest to grow the game and business the connection our college and its faculty long for the lightbulb to go on. advice, he was both quick “[The program] of golf. This program will highlight [our have with our industry. Because without “Rarely do I go out without encountering to compliment as well as members’] capability and capacity to lead our activity in industry, I’m not sure this a graduate,” the longtime Hospitality provide a not-so-gentle is going to be the in a complex and dynamic marketplace.” relationship would’ve happened.” nudge in the right direction! College professor said in a book interview "Captain Al" led numerous international differentiator for As much as Marlatt expects the in the early 2000s. “I’ve changed in 20 years, educational expeditions throughout his career. Looking back, I realized he so the conversation always starts, are you believed in his students more PGA of America Al Izzolo?” being courted. An industry man through than we believed in ourselves. Izzolo’s legacy, which spans four and through, he found the opportunity to Al saw the potential and members who decades, triggers something profound teach intriguing. provided so many of us in graduates. Some remember Al as a “Coming from [the restaurant] industry, not only with hospitality are interested trusted student adviser and mentor. the three-course load—which proved to knowledge but also with the Others, who joined in his international be four, with a few office hours and a bit confidence to move forward in executive educational expeditions, credit “Captain of committee assignments—sounded like in our careers. Thank you, Al! Al” with introducing them to the world. a 20-hour week. I wound up working closer -Bobbie Barnes ’93 management.” Generations of alumni know Izzolo as an to 60 hours.” industry sage, always willing to share his But it was a labor of love for Izzolo, who - Dawes Marlatt, PGA of America AL ALWAYS HAD A KIND unique brand of inspiring realism. was instrumental in laying the fledgling WORD and plenty of time for Prior to joining the faculty in 1976, Izzolo college’s foundation—bringing in early us doctoral students. He is a was a restaurant recruiter who frequently donors, helping to create administrative true fountain of knowledge visited the college looking to hire students standards, securing internships for and always brought the because they “always seemed to work students, and hosting fundraisers. He operator’s perspective to his out.” Soon, though, Izzolo was the one even partnered with colleague and fellow discussions. Congratulations Professor Pat Moreo to write a food column on a wonderfully titled “Under Five,” letting students know influential career and a where to eat for less than $5. well-earned retirement. An industry man Upon his recent retirement, Izzolo remained predictably humble about -John Farrish ’10 through and his role in nurturing the college and its through, he found students into adulthood. The beneficiaries AL, WE BOTH WORKED for of “Captain Al’s” wisdom and guidance ARA in the 70’s. I went back to the opportunity to aren’t nearly as reserved. Here’s what some NY and worked in the hotel teach intriguing. of them had to say: industry while you returned

Al’s Class Notes >

10 SPRING 2020 PHOTO BY R. MARSH STARKS SPRING 2020 11 COLLEGE NEWS NEW FACES

> Al’s Class Notes Career to Las Vegas in 1976 and I spent 27 years in upstate New York taught at UNLV. Somehow, I working at Cornell University. My last thought you had moved on to two years at Cornell, I was the associate another area, but you never In Memoriam dean for infrastructure and technology left Las Vegas. It sure would for the newly created SC Johnson College be nice to meet with you for Patti Shock of Business. a coffee or drink. Time sure flew by. I can’t believe it’s Why UNLV? been 40+ years! The hospitality community says goodbye to a meetings- UNLV’s commitment to hospitality and-events trailblazer and decorated scholar education is what initially drew me - Floyd Benedict ’71 here. I was excited by the construction of Hospitality Hall, the renaming of the Al is a mentor Hospitality College, and the current and friend. He was changes to the college’s curriculum. instrumental in guiding many young college ospitality education Something surprising about Las Vegas students, including pioneer and former I was pleased to see UNLV’s drive to me! I appreciate Al and Hospitality College New becoming a Top Tier research institution his years of service. faculty member Patti and how much diversity we have here. I’ve Thank you for coming HShock passed away in November 2019 at also been impressed by the sense of pride to Maui and celebrating the age of 79. Las Vegans have for their community. our wedding nearly 20 Shock was a fixture at the Harrah Particularly on the heels of the Oct. 1 years ago. College of Hospitality for 25 years (1988- tragedy and the Golden Knights success, 2013), serving in various leadership Faces - Marc Moulinet ’96 the town really came together. roles, such as chair of the Tourism and Convention Administration Department. I LEARNED A GREAT Why the hospitality industry? Prior to her tenure at UNLV, she spent 10 from Al’s insights. Having the Tim Durnford My father was a food service salesman, years at Georgia State University. opportunity to take summer so I’ve been around the industry almost Often credited with bringing the Associate Dean of Finance studies in Switzerland, he my whole life. Later, I got my bachelor’s meetings and events specialty into the and Administration encouraged us to participate degree in food science and nutrition foreground of academia, Shock helped in all aspects of the courses, from Colorado State University and my shape the hospitality curriculum at including engaging with other master’s in hotel administration from numerous institutions across the U.S. students and attending area Cornell. I am passionate about hospitality Her impact as an educator, author, and experiences. This international education and how it can change the lives consultant is evidenced by the many opportunity served as a key of students. professional accolades she earned to my professional growth on throughout her career, including: Lifetime cruise ships. Now at Caesars Ideal summer vacation Achievement Award by the Las Vegas Entertainment, I’m working My wife and I love adventure vacations. Chapter of the National Association of with HR to implement his Last year, we hiked 120 miles through Catering Executives (2010); Distinguished hospitality education in recent years, idea for UNLV’s international Portugal and Spain on the Camino de Service Award by the International serving as an academic consultant for The students to intern with the Santiago. The year before that, we did an Association for Exposition Management International School of Hospitality and an company. Al, thank you for eco-tourism trip through Costa Rica that (2000); and Educator of the Year Award by adjunct professor for Florida International all you have done and for was phenomenal. the Professional Convention Management University. When she wasn’t dedicating contributing to some key Association (1996). time to advancing the discipline of milestones in my education A hospitality professional at his core, Tim A time you were daring Shock continued to be a force in meetings and events, she was pouring her and career. Durnford has built his career on tackling new When my wife and I were engaged, we energy into helping others—a generosity challenges and building great teams decided to do a three-month program - Holly Weberg ’90 of spirit that impacted generations of in Italy. We spent the fall in Rome, and students and colleagues. by Caitlyn Lopez we were getting married in March, so my “Patti hired me 18 years ago,” said Dr. in-laws planned our wedding. This was Billy Bai, Hospitality College professor before cell phones and email, so they Shock helped shape the and associate dean of research. “As our rom the bustling field of restaurant would mail us letters across the Atlantic department chair, she was always very hospitality curriculum management to the scholarly halls of the Ivy asking which flowers or cake flavors we supportive and good-hearted—doing See page 52 for League, Tim Durnford has always known he’d wanted. We had the best experience of at numerous institutions everything she could to provide us with more of Al’s work in the hospitality industry. Now, as the our lives, and we came home to a great across the U.S. the resources we needed to advance. She Class Notes FUNLV Hospitality College new associate dean of finance wedding, too! was a great person and will be missed by and administration, he’s ready for his next adventure. all who knew her.”

12 SPRING 2020 PHOTO BY JOSH HAWKINS SPRING 2020 13 COLLEGE NEWS

Your role at the Hospitality College New As the executive associate dean of academic affairs, I will serve as the college’s chief academic officer. That Faces means I will be leading faculty with new initiatives, growing and promoting academic programs, working to build our research, and helping students as they move forward in their studies. Make your mark by adding your name to Be part the Nicholas Paulos Alumni & Friends Why UNLV? paver garden at the new Hospitality Hall. The opportunity was very exciting. The Hospitality College is one of the top programs in the world, and it’s in Las of History. Vegas, which makes it very unique. I’m excited to help further the college’s mission and be part of the team that will continue to raise its profile.

Your inspiration to get into academics A few faculty members at Rollins College in Florida, where I got my MBA, recommended that I get my Ph.D. They Marla Royne Stafford thought it would be a great fit for me, Help build Executive Associate Dean so I left my corporate job at Tupperware of Academic Affairs Worldwide and got my Ph.D. in marketing. It completely changed my career path the into academia. Future. Something people would be surprised to learn about you I started college when I was 16 and studied theater at a university in Illinois. Then at 17, I transferred to the University of Arizona and studied speech communication.

Your research passion I have always enjoyed advertising research, but these days I’m passionate From the South to the Strip, Marla Royne Stafford’s path in about consumer well-being in regard to To order your personalized paver today, academia has been guided by her passion for research and health care and environmental issues. visit unlv.edu/hospitality/paver her mission to change the lives of students. Dean Stowe Shoemaker and I have talked about the health care industry and how it by Caitlyn Lopez relates to hospitality. We think there is a lot of opportunity in this area.

arla Royne Stafford recently trekked across the country to Given your background, how do you plant new roots at UNLV. Her inspiration? The opportunity fit in with the Hospitality College? to work with some great minds and help build academic I have done a lot of research work in programs for the burgeoning Hospitality College. services—everything from the quality of MStafford is no stranger to working at the highest levels of college services to the advertising of services— administration. This Chicago transplant took on her new role as executive and I’ve used restaurants and hotels associate dean of academic affairs for the College of Hospitality after serving in that research. My background is in as both department chair and interim dean at the University of Memphis’ marketing, advertising, and services, and Fogelman College of Business and Economics. Stafford’s experience leading I think that transitions nicely into the faculty—along with her extensive research background in marketing, hospitality arena. advertising, and services—makes her a perfect fit for the Hospitality College.

14 SPRING 2020 PHOTO BY JOSH HAWKINS SPRING 2020 15 Hospitality has become an industry of improvisation. With its new curriculum, the Hospitality College has found a way to bend along with it.

by Angela Ramsey

hen Richard Sypert came to UNLV, he searched for a degree program that would allow him to pursue his passion in sports events management. WFollowing a brief spell in the Business School, Sypert found a permanent home in UNLV’s Harrah College of Hospitality. The Las Vegas native knew what he wanted to do wasn’t necessarily conventional, but hospitality checked many of his boxes.

16 SPRING 2020 PHOTO BY JOSH HAWKINS SPRING 2020 17 CHANGING COURSE CHANGING COURSE

“I felt like the hospitality so they’ll feel respected and want to be required class schedule—not to mention relevance; the industry wanted a highly Sammons, a Hospitality College professor Hospitality sophomore Richard Sypert is headed part of the team.” their wallets—to explore all aspects of trained, yet more nimble, workforce. And and member of the college’s ad hoc for a career in sports events management. program could complement With business principals at its their budding passions. the College of Hospitality was determined curriculum committee. more of what I wanted foundation and service at its heart, the It has likewise been a challenge for to give everyone what they wanted. Learning precisely what the industry to do, because there’s an Hospitality College is attracting more the Harrah College to stay fluid enough wanted didn’t happen overnight. The and more students like Sypert and to accommodate an industry so highly If it ain’t broke, why fix it? ad hoc curriculum committee spent financials. They also wanted students to emphasis on management Karsten whose interests lie outside of adaptive by nature. Innovations and trends In December 2017, the Hospitality months gathering the perspectives understand guest services and be able the traditional hotel/restaurant sectors. are moving the needle at hyper speed, and College launched what many in academia of hospitality professionals through to manage the service experience ... so as well as serving other Hospitality has become one of the fastest the industry is seeking a workforce that is consider to be a mountain-moving effort of interviews and surveys. These findings critical thinking and problem-solving people,” says Sypert, who growing industries because it’s not limited well-equipped to steer their organizations redesigning a curriculum. It was a bold move were supplemented with those collected skills were big on the list.” to one type of service—indeed, hospitality through fluctuating times. for a top-ranked program known for its tried- during a 2015 education workshop titled The committee agreed that certain is currently a sophomore. hopefuls now cast a wide net into fields “Industry decision makers know what and-true academic formula. But faculty “Hospitality 2025,” where hospitality identified competencies would be baked “That’s what stood out to me.” such as travel, entertainment, health care, they want in future employees,” says Dr. members knew the industry would soon be insiders joined the Hospitality College into the learning objectives for all new sports ... the list goes on. Stowe Shoemaker, Dean of the Hospitality outpacing the college, and responsiveness for an in-depth look at trajectories and core courses. Students would now have Fellow UNLV student Cassandra But even the most open-minded College. “They want people who thrive in would prove key to student success as projected trends over a 10-year period. to demonstrate strong communication Karsten found herself in a similar students and programs have to live within an increasingly dynamic environment but well as program longevity. They were also Throughout the data-collection and critical-thinking skills across the situation—gravitating from the business the bounds of a university system, where who also come prepared with a specific convinced that introducing a few new process, recurring themes and skill board, no matter which course they were program to the Hospitality College to set core requirements and prerequisites reign set of soft and hard skills.” courses wasn’t the solution; to truly evolve, sets began to rise to the surface. These taking. In addition, they would be required herself up for a career in nonprofits. supreme. It hasn’t been easy for students Recognizing the new needs of both wholesale structural change was required. became the springboard for a curriculum to sharpen their analytical skills through “The focus of this college is people,” says like Sypert (who hopes to someday direct industry and its future professionals, it “We started with a blank page, knowing discussion and a course “wish list.” new core selections, such as Hospitality Karsten, now a senior. “We are taught how major tennis tournaments) and Karsten was clear the college needed to move that we wanted to base our new curriculum “Several things stood out,” Sammons Financial Accounting, Hospitality Financial to treat customers so they’ll keep coming (who looks toward a future working with its own needle: Students like Sypert and on the knowledge, skills, and dispositions says. “Our industry contacts definitely Analysis, and Revenue Management and back. We’re taught how to treat employees foster children) to find room in their Karsten wanted more choice and more that the industry wants,” explains Dr. Gail wanted analytics—the understanding of Profit Optimization.

18 SPRING 2020 PHOTOS BY LONNIE TIMMONS III SPRING 2020 19 CHANGING COURSE CHANGING COURSE

Under the new curriculum This helps students by front-loading any had the green light to start refining courses technical learning or “refreshers” needed under the new curriculum structure. “We’ve reduced the amount of structure, proficiency in to succeed in each course while allowing Perhaps the most notable shift in the instructors to focus on course content new curriculum comes in the form of its core requirements so students several computer programs, rather than teaching computer skills. core-to-electives formula: While beefing such as Microsoft Excel, For a full year, the ad hoc curriculum up desired competencies, the number committee created, reviewed, rearranged, of required core courses was actually can construct a career path will also now be required. and consolidated the college’s core trimmed from 58 to 52 credits. This requirements so students can construct a Students are expected to courses so that the appropriate content allows students to take up to 30 credits in career path that more closely aligns with that more closely aligns with demonstrate mastery of would land in the path of all students. elective courses, giving them more room their passions.” That year of blood, sweat, and tears finally to form specializations. Under the new structure, students their passions.” these computer programs paid off when the committee presented “Prior to this, we were really lockstep,” will have the option to choose up - Bobbie Barnes, assistant professor in residence the college’s faculty with a shiny, new explains Dr. Bobbie Barnes, Hospitality to two concentrations in hospitality within the first two weeks curriculum in October 2018; after a vote of College assistant professor in residence sectors, including food, beverage, events, of class as part of a the entire faculty, 79 percent approved it. and ad hoc committee member. “Now, gaming, integrated resorts, and PGA golf certification process. we’ve reduced the amount of core management—an appealing option for On the subject of choice students like Sypert, who would have part of the curriculum. That way, if a trend out fights,” Sammons recalls, “but we With university approval still pending, jumped at the chance to gain a wider doesn’t persist, that course topic doesn’t promised we’d hear each other out; we Senior Cassandra Karsten plans on using her the work was far from over. But with a hospitality management skills to launch a career skill base. have to become permanent.” promised we’d do our homework and majority vote from the faculty, the college in nonprofits. “Tennis tournaments are multifaceted,” Engineering a flexible curriculum clear our calendars to meet as much as we he says. “I would love to learn the food & embedded with the right knowledge, skills, could. If we had questions, we made sure beverage and hotel management side of and dispositions was the faculty’s primary we reached out to other subject-matter things to better understand all of these goal. But the process, Barnes says, also experts in the industry, our alums, and facets. Even if you’re concentrating in events, involved creating a learning model that other faculty to make sure we were going there’s a good chance you’ll be involved in primes students for career mobility in the in the right direction.” these other aspects of hospitality.” real world. There were additional hurdles. For The revised elective structure also “We want students to be exposed to instance, finalizing the updated curriculum gives students the new option of building course material that really prepares them meant gaining approvals from feeder a 15-credit concentration outside of to move from employee to supervisor programs—the College of Southern Nevada the hospitality college, which benefits to manager to executive level,” Barnes (CSN) and Truckee Meadows Community nonconventional students like Karsten. explains. “So under the new curriculum, College in Reno—to ensure the seamless “Students are going to be able to explore we thoughtfully built our freshman, transfer of credits between institutions. more things they’re interested in without sophomore, junior, and senior course After serious negotiations and concessions paying for extra classes that don’t lead to schedules to mirror this progression, on both sides, CSN and Truckee Meadows a degree,” says Karsten, who would have focusing on the decision-making skills agreed to align hospitality courses with liked to supplement her hospitality degree required to get to the next level.” those of the Hospitality College. with social work courses. “This opens the Adds Shoemaker: “We’re really “The Nevada system has high standards,” door for someone like me who wants to preparing our students for their first, Barnes says. “With each layer, we had to do nonprofits but needs the meetings and second, third, and fourth jobs. Whatever evaluate it, justify it. It’s painful, but the events knowledge. I felt like I had to pick sector they’re in, whatever new trend extra layers of approval only serve to make one or the other, but now [students] can they’re facing, they can draw from the solid the product better for the students.” have both.” foundation they got here at the Hospitality It’s a product the college was Another creative component of the new College and move up in their organization.” determined to share with a larger audience. configuration is the flexibility to launch (and, Coinciding with the fall 2020 launch of likewise, discontinue) electives according Mountains moved! the new-and-improved curriculum, the to industry demand. By adding an “X” to On October 17, 2019—virtually a year to college will begin offering select courses the end of course numbers—with the “X” the day after Hospitality College faculty online. A full-scale online degree program denoting a kind of temporary status—the signed off on the new core curriculum— will soon follow. college can roll out content on a trial basis the university gave its stamp of approval. “We want to make sure our program is as special projects or new industry trends The college’s list of elective courses, not only better but also more accessible,” present themselves. “Let’s say we offer a meanwhile, continues to be fleshed out Shoemaker says. “If students can’t come new course on menu design and assign it by departments. Those involved describe to us, we want to come to them. That’s how the number FAB 329,” Sammons says. “If we the process as a labor of love—sometimes we’re going to connect students with the put an ‘X’ by it (FAB 329X), we can offer it up contentious, but always respectful. career of their dreams. That’s how we’re to two times before it becomes an official “We had some knockdown, drag- going to keep changing lives.”

20 SPRING 2020 PHOTO BY LONNIE TIMMONS III SPRING 2020 21 DEAN’S CUP: KEEPING TRADITION ALIVE ’ KEEPING E N TRADITION D A S ALIVE What used to be the Battle for Beam Hall has evolved into a new kind of competition, thanks Above: Hospitality alumnus Charles Beris, Dean Cup’s format has changed over its 10- Stowe Shoemaker, staff member Trevor Brown, to the vision of two year history—participants have enjoyed and student William Choi celebrate winning the dedicated alumni miniature golf, board games, and now 10th anniversary Dean’s Cup. bowling—the event has stayed true to the by Caitlyn Lopez founders’ vision of boosting Rebel pride What’s your fondest memory from C and building lifelong connections. past Dean’s Cup battles? P Peiser: I tried to use our golf advantage How did the idea for the Dean’s Cup the first year and enlisted some PGA golf get started? management students to play with us. or nearly 35 years, the Harrah Unfortunately, we still lost to Business, but U John Peiser: Jim and I knew each other from College of Hospitality and we have redeemed ourselves a few times serving on the UNLV Alumni Association’s Lee Business School were since then. Legacy Board. He represented the Lee friendly rivals housed under Business School, and I represented the Ratigan: John and I went to the trophy Fthe same roof in UNLV’s Beam Hall. In then-Hotel College. The colleges were store, and I picked one that was within 2009, an unlikely duo—Business alum friendly rivals for years in Beam Hall. our $50 budget, but it ended up being James Ratigan, ’78 and Hospitality Rebel only about 8 inches tall. We thought the John Peiser, ’78—turned that competitive Jim Ratigan: We wanted to create a trophy should be a statement piece, so we spirit into an opportunity to bring signature event that increased both purchased a much larger one that would alumni together. alumni membership and engagement [entice] people to compete. Thus, the Dean’s Cup was born. for the colleges, so we came up with a Dozens of proud students, faculty, miniature golf competition modeled after and alumni come together once a year the Ryder Cup. We wanted to make it so What do you envision for the future? to represent Team Hospitality or Team anyone could play regardless of skill level. Peiser: I hope to keep the tradition alive. Business in the Dean’s Cup. Although the Jim and I had a small dream that has How has the competition changed blossomed into a great event, and we over the years? attribute that to the deans, staff, and Dean’s Cup Scorecard everyone else involved. Peiser: In 2011, we switched from golf to a to Date board-game night on campus. However, Ratigan: I would love to see the event it was difficult to identify a winner. We expanded to include other colleges and Hospitality  tried bowling the following year, and that units on campus so that it becomes a true College worked a lot better. Dean’s Cup. We have shown how it’s done and how it’s successful. It would be great Lee Business School Ratigan: The alumni directors for the to involve everyone at UNLV. Dean Brent Hathaway and colleges also expanded the event to Hospitality College Dean Business  Stowe Shoemaker led the School include alumni, students, and faculty and friendly competition in staff, which was a fantastic idea. It’s great March 2019. to see everyone interacting together.

22 SPRING 2020 PHOTOS BY CONNIE PALEN SPRING 2020 23 RICHES TO RAGS

the tourism industry were paid in strong American dollars, while everyone else was paid in local currency. “Professional people were leaving their riChEs careers as doctors, architects, lawyers, and teachers to work in cocktail lounges in big TO tourist hotels,” Henthorne says. “It was a AND business environment unlike any other in the world and a great laboratory to study in.” rAGs Still, Henthorne was vexed by the obstacles that stood in the way of a full- blown tourism renaissance in Cuba. The country had fallen into disrepair under Castro. Basic services, like electricity, were unreliable. Hot water and elevators eveRY often didn’t work, in stark contrast to

If Cubans were ThinG century, and one that associate dean of ambivalent about IN BETWEEN graduate and international programs Tony Henthorne wanted to tell. tourism to begin “Cuba is the largest county in the with, communism Caribbean, and it’s the closest country to U.S. territory, yet it is the most unknown,” only complicated Henthorne says. His recent book Tourism in the matter. Cuba: Casinos, Castros, and Challenges—a Hospitality professor Tony culmination of decades of work he’s done Henthorne traces the tumultuous in the Caribbean as a scholar, tourism competitors like Jamaica. Cuba seemed consultant, and speaker—chronicles the hopelessly locked in time. history of Cuba’s tourism industry island’s complicated relationship with “All those stories about 1957 Chevys in by Angela Ramsey tourism against the backdrop of corruption, Cuba are true,” he says. “The island went for political upheaval, and isolationism. many, many years without seeing much in the But more than anything, Henthorne’s way of new products or new construction.” avana, circa 1957. book tells a story of survival. Henthorne points out that things have The Hotel Riviera rattles “If you weren’t in the hospitality improved in Cuba in recent years with with laughter and conga business or sugarcane, you weren’t going the help of foreign investors like Spain. beats as smartly dressed to survive in Cuba,” he says. Tourists still see an assortment of jalopies HAmericans glide between the showroom In the 1940s and 1950s, Cuba was the on the road, but elevators will work most and casino. Back rooms swirl with the No. 1 tourist destination in the Caribbean, of the time. cigar smoke of Cuban officials and and 95 percent of tourists were Americans, Still, of Cuba’s 5 million visitors a year, American racketeers, pockets lined with Henthorne says. But the casino business, Americans remain conspicuously absent, casino profits. run by Americans, was corrupt, and all the despite a brief thaw in relations between Fast-forward a couple of years, and money was going back to the States and Cuba and the U.S. under the Obama a uniform-clad revolutionary named organized crime. This led to the repression administration. It’s an artifact, Henthorne Fidel Castro stands in the same hotel, and disillusionment of the Cuban people, says, of the “bizarre grudge match” that vowing to end gambling and American which in turn left the door wide open for Aging cars and embargoed goods like rum and back in the day, would be the way to make has endured for six decades. interventionism—a goal he would quickly Castro, who promptly banished what he cigars (shown above with Henthorne) have money again.” Americans can travel to Cuba if they’re become symbols of Cuba’s isolation. make reality, along with the nationalization dubbed the “colonial” American presence. Cubans’ love-hate relationship with willing to jump through a few hoops, which of all Cuban hotel-casinos. Soviet backing It was a dramatic, if not epic, split between tourism intrigued Henthorne as a young include getting a license under one of 12 would allow Cuban tourism to survive over the countries that endures to this day. after Cuba lost funding from the Soviet professor at the University of Southern legal categories, like humanitarianism the next few decades, but the collapse of It’s easy to see why Cuba’s historical Union, Cubans were desperate for cash, Mississippi, prompting him to volunteer or journalism. You won’t find tourism the USSR in 1991 and the stranglehold of a dependence on tourism is begrudged by literally starving in the streets,” Henthorne for a fact-finding mission in 1994 to on the list, though—an irony not lost on decrepit Castro regime would ultimately many on the island. But if Cubans were explains. “They had to come up with ways to determine the viability of a study-abroad Henthorne, who continues pounding the thrust Cuba into economic ruin. ambivalent about tourism to begin with, make money. While Cubans hated tourism, program on the island. The program, he pavement in Cuba to prepare tourism The story of Cuba’s tourism industry is a communism only complicated the matter. they ultimately decided that international hoped, would expose students to Cuba’s executives there for the inevitability of tale of starts and stops over the past half- “During the so-called ‘Special Period,’ tourism, which was the money machine two-tiered system, in which workers in Americans’ return.

24 SPRING 2020 SPRING 2020 25 Hospitality catering students and staff prep for an event at the Liberace Mansion. Opposite page: Students McKayla Kulman, left, and Daisy Lopez, right. This page: Assistant Executive Chef Stephanie Bogert

IN GOOD TASTE Reno native decided to concentrate her degree in meetings & events and joined the college’s burgeoning catering Serving Up Excellence team. The culinary novice hit the ground running, working alongside Sandoval and his core team of about five caterers (and Mediocrity is not on the menu of the numerous student volunteers) on private Hospitality College’s thriving catering team, dinner parties, sporting events, and formal banquets. Collins relished the chance to which is wowing hungry patrons both on and take what she’d learned in class and apply off campus it to the real world: “I love meeting and interacting with the by Caitlyn Lopez clients,” she says. “Learning to cook was also a bonus.” Turning classroom theory into hen Chef Mark “Whenever I walk around campus, I’m experiential learning is the founding Sandoval was hired always asking, ‘Why are we not doing philosophy of the Hospitality College’s as the College of this? How can our students get involved?’” catering program. In addition to event Hospitality’s executive Sandoval says. “They’re already receiving management, students learn how to chefW in 2016, he was charged with the best education in the classroom. We run a business, including managing developing new and meaningful hands- just want to take what they’re learning and inventories, implementing cost control, on opportunities for students hungry give it some real-life context.” and understanding budgets. It’s a realistic for experience. Hospitality College student Kenzie exercise given that the catering program is One of Sandoval’s first moves was to Collins thought her real-life context would self-sustaining. launch Rebel Grounds, a cozy campus be in the realm of casino management. “We invest the money back into things café where students would get the chance But when she got a taste for events under that benefit the students, whether that’s to design and execute menus, train and Sandoval’s guidance, the senior was replacing old prep tables, hiring more manage staff, and serve customers. captivated by the excitement of creating workers, or purchasing state-of-the-art The next step was to build a first-rate great guest experiences. kitchen equipment,” Sandoval says. “The catering program, supported by a highly “I love that it’s not a static desk job. catering program is run with students in trained student staff. It’s a different experience every day,” mind first.” Step three … world domination? With Collins explains. Turns out Sandoval may very well get Chef Sandoval, you can’t rule it out. Eager to learn all things events, the his wish of world domination: In 2019,

PHOTOS BY CONNIE PALEN 26 SPRING 2020 IN GOOD TASTE

More Work Experience, Executive Chef Mark Sandoval (left) and The Hospitality College catering team Fewer Obstacles hospitality student Sam Schwartz (right) create a seafood spread for a Liberace Mansion event has also caught the attention of the off- The Hospitality catering team’s campus community. For instance, the continuing expansion offers team is now the preferred vendor for the students more opportunities to the catering team hosted more than Liberace Mansion, a 14,400-square-foot gain crucial work experience while 150 events, including retirement parties, event venue once home to the iconic Las earning money. These on-campus council meetings, and tailgates. Also, a Vegas performer. work options are particularly second Rebel Grounds location is planned “Our clients love to see the students important for students who for the new Black Fire Innovation building working. It’s a unique aspect we’re able have busy school schedules, age on UNLV’s Tech Park campus. to offer,” says Ivan Serna, the mansion’s limitations (under 21), and/or are Sandoval was also called upon to serve managing director. “Although they may unable to get work permits (due to as an adviser in the design and permit be students, trust me, they have the international status). process of the kitchen in the new UNLV experience and the knowledge. They always Although the college is not Fertitta Football Complex, opening the go the extra mile.” a culinary program per se, the door to a partnership with athletics. Plans That’s not a surprise, considering experience of working for the are underway to launch an extension of the service excellence is a value Sandoval catering team helps students learn college’s catering program in the Fertitta instills in the catering team at every stage. business principles that transcend Complex’s kitchen, which would serve He coaches students before, during, and hospitality sectors. These include: student-athletes breakfast and lunch after events, and ensures they receive Checking In throughout the week. This new service both front- and back-of-house training. • Just-in-time service load will call for the hiring of an additional This, he says, makes for a happy customer. TRENDS, INNOVATIONS • Customer experience chef and student caterers. “We don’t settle for mediocre; we • Revenue management “This partnership is exciting because always make time to provide students & STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT • Inventory control it’s essentially students helping students,” with opportunities to learn how to do • Wait-time management Sandoval says. “With the anticipated growth something properly,” Sandoval says. “At the • Food sanitation of the program, we hope to eventually end of the day, we’re here to provide food serve all UNLV athletes breakfast, lunch, that’s delicious. That’s why our customers Facing the Future of Technology p.30 and dinner five days a week.” keep coming back.” by Caitlyn Lopez

PHOTO BY CONNIE PALEN 28 SPRING 2020 SPRING 2020 29 CHECKING IN FACING THE FUTURE OF TECHNOLOGY

WHAT’S NEW IN RESEARCH Facing the Future of lighting (casinos often contain flashing Technology lights); and image-capture limitations (individuals passing through common Graduate student Wenrong Wang areas are rarely static long enough to harnesses his gaming knowledge to lead an adequately capture). interdisciplinary study on the use of facial Wang says one guest speaker, a recognition in casinos security director for a local casino, told the research group that his property by Caitlyn Lopez had to abandon facial recognition software years ago because it wasn’t producing consistent results. “The overall purpose of the technology is to reduce security’s workload, but if it’s not ollywood has long been investigating the viability of implementing accurate or working as it should, then it a pioneer when it comes facial recognition in their casinos. can actually do the opposite,” Wang says. to exploring the future of “It’s like picking out the bad guy,” says “Older properties often suffer because technology. We saw the Hospitality College graduate student they weren’t constructed with this HTerminator assess threats by scanning Wenrong Wang, who participated in a technology in mind. It’s also expensive his surroundings, Robocop identify recent UNLV research project focused on to maintain the database and purchase villains by running an image through a using facial recognition technology in the high-quality cameras.” police database, and Captain Kirk access casino space. “If you have a crowd of 200 As they got deeper into their research confidential data via a retinal scan. people, the technology should be able to and closer to writing their final paper, But this type of technology isn’t the point out who shouldn’t be there.” Wang and his colleagues discovered that stuff of science fiction any longer. In Spring 2019, Wang and three UNLV security isn’t the only factor driving the use Thanks to readily accessible facial criminal justice undergraduate students of facial recognition software in casinos. recognition software, we all can unlock set out to examine both the merits and In New Zealand, for example, casino our smartphones and tag friends on social challenges of employing facial recognition operators are testing facial recognition media, all with a quick scan of the face. And software in the casino environment. The as a tool to identify problem gamblers for interdisciplinary project was facilitated by intervention purposes; other organizations Dr. Tamara Herold, a UNLV criminal justice are examining using the technology to flag “If you have a professor who happens to be an expert in high rollers and VIP guests so that premium crowd dynamics. services can be activated. crowd of 200 “Interdisciplinary studies are unique Of course, as Wang points out, these because each person brings their own practices can raise serious ethical people, the perspectives,” says Herold, who recruited questions. “There’s a fine line between Wang to lead the group because of his increasing guest safety and invading one’s technology should professional and academic background in privacy,” he says. “The technology can gaming. “Combining disciplines enhances prevent problem gamblers from playing, be able to point the knowledge and might even change the but is that the casino’s responsibility? direction of research.” And what if a VIP guest doesn’t want extra out who shouldn’t Under Herold’s guidance, the group attention? Are you invading their privacy combed through literature, visited a Strip by identifying them through the software?” be there.” property, watched industry-related videos, Casinos will have to grapple with these - graduate student Wenrong Wang and spoke with casino professionals. types of questions as facial recognition As the information-gathering process programs improve and costs come down. progressed, the team came to recognize And when that time comes, Wang—who it doesn’t end there. Airports, retail stores, the technical difficulties associated with recently graduated and is now working for and even ATMs are using this technology to launching a facial recognition program in a major Strip property—may very well be scour the facial features of visitors in hopes casinos. Plaguing the process, generally, sitting at the table helping to determine Grad student Wenrong Wang of weeding out criminals. It’s the same are such challenges as size (casino floors how the technology will figure into the mentored UNLV undergrads reason security-conscious gaming execs are are sprawling, high-traffic areas); dynamic hospitality industry’s future. working on a facial recognition study in 2019.

30 SPRING 2020 PHOTO BY JOSH HAWKINS SPRING 2020 31 CHECKING IN PLAYING WITH HOUSE MONEY

WHAT’S NEW IN RESEARCH

lass, study, work, repeat. Such is the Playing With grind of the typical undergrad hospitality Cmanagement student. Voluntarily House Money taking on additional tasks—let A breakthrough research project landed hospitality alone a complex, time-consuming undergrad Jasmine Nemati a top-tier journal credit research project—is an act of and the experience of a lifetime sheer audacity. by Angela Ramsey

PHOTOS BY JOSH HAWKINS

32 SPRING 2020 SPRING 2020 33 CHECKING IN PLAYING WITH HOUSE MONEY

“My parents taught me that my only obstacle in life is me.” - Hospitality College student Jasmine Nemati

Enter Harrah College of Hospitality student Jasmine Nemati, whose interest in research sprang not from boldness but from curiosity. The more time she spent studying, working, and interning, the more questions she had about the inner workings of the hospitality industry — and the more she was willing to work to find answers. Nemati’s determination so impressed Lucas that when the original study fell through, he offered the undergrad a The Team different research opportunity. The 21-year-old’s curiosity was piqued in 2018 during her internship at a major Strip property. She wondered, The Project along with key leaders in the organization, if a particular The new study focused on a type of casino promotion food and beverage promotion was an effective revenue program that is used to entice players to spend more producer for the casino. Knowing she would need the help on electronic gaming devices like slots. It’s a marketing of an experienced researcher, Nemati approached one of strategy known as free-play. her favorite instructors, Hospitality College “Customers receive dollar incentives on their player professor Tony Lucas. cards based on how much they play,” Nemati explains, “Dr. Lucas is an amazing statistician,” navigating the casino vernacular like a seasoned pro. Nemati says. “Since I’ve always been “Free-play was initially launched in off-Strip casinos with interested in statistics in terms of casinos, lots of repeat customers, but now it is part of most every I knew this project would be an incredible casino loyalty program.” learning opportunity and he would be a A ubiquitous practice because it works in driving “Customers just aren’t behaving the way marketers say Recent Hospitality College graduate Jasmine Nemati looks forward to continuing her education in statistics. great mentor.” revenue to the casino? So it would seem. they are behaving, which makes the considerable cost of Lucas was understandably wary given the Lucas wanted to test this assumption using scientific casino loyalty programs difficult to justify,” says Lucas, who complexity of the project but was swayed methods. Once Nemati was able to source the performance likens a casino to a complex web of “simultaneous forces.” “The opportunity to witness Dr. Lucas building this by Nemati’s earnest desire to enhance data through her internship connections, and Lucas was Studying this type of environment requires sophisticated model,” says Nemati, “and then teach me how to do the her knowledge. able to build the statistical model, the two embarked on a measurement tools, he explained, as well as “a brave and study … even having my name on this study … I feel so very “You don’t get a lot of people who are four-month-long discovery process analyzing 365 days of educated casino management team willing to challenge privileged and grateful.” Prior to his tenure at UNLV, interested in this depth of analysis,” says player behavior at a top Strip casino. the status quo by providing their data.” Beyond the many benefits to Nemati and other Tony Lucas, worked in the Lucas. “We’re talking time series regression. Working alongside Lucas, Nemati realized that standing students, university-led research is an asset to the gaming casino industry for 11 years It’s pretty brutal. But Jasmine is different. I The Truth Is in the Math in the sometimes-controversial space of gaming research industry, which Lucas says is going to have to move beyond in the areas of financial tried to talk her out of it, but she wouldn’t Contrary to a widely held hypothesis, the data revealed requires not only a thick skin but also a very specific set of business-as-usual marketing tactics in order to survive. and operations analysis. back down.” that players in fact do not consistently reinvest their skills. “It ignited in me a desire to continue my education “As gaming spreads across the globe, everybody is He is an award-winning gaming researcher and has Refusing to back down from a challenge incentive money back into the casino. They are wagering in statistics and focus in on gaming,” she explains. “It going to be fighting for the same customer,” Lucas points authored several widely is a lesson the Las Vegas native learned the initial full amount—a built-in requirement—but are solidified in my mind that if I want to pursue gaming… I out, “so we better start figuring out what works and what used textbooks, including early on. “My parents taught me that my only quick to cash out once that requirement is met. Nemati have to fully understand the math behind it.” doesn’t work. I want to tear down the politics of marketing Introduction to Casino obstacle in life is me,” says Nemati. “I can says the results suggest that rather than being loyal to a and make it more about science. This is how university/ Management, Principles of Casino Marketing, and pursue any dream; all it takes is a bright mind particular property, players may instead be loyal to their The Future industry cooperative efforts can be a win-win. This is how Casino Management & and dedication.” players card—perhaps even multiple players cards. If you had asked Nemati when she started college if we can help.” Marketing Case Studies. The findings, now published in the article “Free Play she was going to be published in a top-tier journal, she Now a college graduate, Nemati continues to look for Impact by Customer Segment” in the International Journal would have surely dismissed the idea. But more and more ways that she can help the hospitality industry contend of Hospitality Management, were not a surprise to Lucas, undergraduate students are getting involved in research with an uncertain future. With a major research project whose work is known for challenging conventional wisdom at UNLV, opening doors that used to be reserved for those under belt, she is now prepared to take on even bigger in the area of casino marketing. at the graduate level. questions—and embrace even greater challenges.

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Peter Arceo ’96 General Manager, San Manuel Casino

Take It From INSPIRATION HAS ALWAYS BEEN a key driver for Peter Our Alumni Arceo, who began working with the San Manuel Band Harrah College of of Mission Indians in 2015. It’s what motivated Arceo Hospitality alumni share to leave college in Southern insider tips on how to get California to attend UNLV’s Hospitality College, and the most out of a career what led to his professional in hospitality. ascension from card dealer to casino management. Lexy Coley ’02, ’06 MS/MBA Arceo credits some “great people” in his early career for empowering him to reach his full potential in their General Manager, Omni Dallas Hotel at organization. He now hopes to empower others. Park West

Pearls of Wisdom GENUINE HOSPITALITY MATTERS at the Omni Dallas at Park West, where UNLV Hospitality College graduate Lexy Coley has served as Supplement your education with hands-on experience. general manager since July 2019. Coley developed an interest in the “My mentors put me in positions where I had to make hospitality industry at an early age during family vacations to places decisions. Luckily, UNLV provided me with the background like Las Vegas, where she marveled at how every employee—from the that allowed me to take my education and put it to front-desk agent to the room attendant—“took care of them.” Coley’s practical use. Take what you’ve learned in school and add it passion for service brought her to UNLV, where she studied hospitality to the work environment. That will allow you to grow.” management at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Since Stay open-minded about possibilities. then, she’s never looked back. “If you have an opportunity, keep your mind open—even if it requires you to accept a position that’s different from your Pearls of Wisdom first option. Give yourself a wider view of the business as you The hotel business is ripe UNLV professors know work toward your goal. with opportunities. the business. Kim Gradisher ’07 Understand that nonprofits are a way of life. Don’t be afraid to get creative. “One of the things that drew me to “I loved my experience at UNLV! It “You need to have a work-life balance, which “Whether it’s a tribal or traditional casino environment, the hotel industry is that there are was great that the professors had Executive Director, the Tyler Robinson Foundation can be difficult working in nonprofits. I’ve complacency is the biggest threat to business. Challenge always positions available in the experience working in the industry. found ways to incorporate my daily life into my yourself to think differently: How can we create a better market. Plus, the hospitality industry If they read something out of a COMING FROM A LONG LINE of community servants, it’s easy to see why Kim Gradisher career. There are ways that I can include my environment to generate more revenue but also provide our is everywhere. If you want to move, textbook, they provided real-world has devoted her life to helping others. Whether volunteering for important causes or going family in the events and outreach work I do. If guests a great experience? It’s about empowering people to your career can move with you.” examples that made it make sense. about everyday work tasks, Gradisher demonstrates daily how giving runs in her blood. you understand that nonprofit work is a way be creative and try new things.” I loved that once I started working The Wisconsin native moved West on a quest for warmer weather and an education There’s never a dull moment. of life, it’s not much of a challenge to create in the industry, I could apply through UNLV’s top-ranked hospitality program. Her focus in recreational management was Business should also be about helping others. “There’s always something fun about that balance.” that knowledge.” a natural fit, preparing her to take on roles for such nonprofits as the YMCA, Special Olympics, “I get excited because I not only work for an organization hospitality. And you can always and the Arthritis Foundation. Now, more than a decade after earning her degree, Gradisher Be passionate about your cause. that drives business success but also one that that gives discover something that can improve Sharpen your leadership skills and continues to embody an altruistic spirit while heading up the Tyler Robinson Foundation, “It’s important for me to get up in the morning back to the community. This means that the results of the guest experience. Finding those doors will open. which assists families affected by pediatric cancer. Armed with skills she learned at UNLV and know I’m doing something good. I feel our success are not only seen in the casino but also in little things, whether it be in service “If you show promise and are a good and a great cause, Gradisher knows what it takes to be a champion in the nonprofit world. blessed to make a difference in the world and the community. I’m also passionate about developing the or processes, is what motivates me.” leader, you will have opportunities in help families touched by pediatric cancer. They careers of others. Remembering how people helped me, I this business. I went from director of Know your strategy. Pearls of Wisdom are worth getting up for every day.” get energy by helping others.” housekeeping to director of rooms “In this business, service is a must in a year before being offered the Build your character through hard work. Get your foot in the door as early as possible. Make sure your degree program works for you. Rebels make great team members. because the quality of service really position of director of operations “The biggest lesson I learned throughout “Be proactive. If you have no experience, start “I really enjoyed my time at UNLV. The fact it’s “San Manuel’s leadership team happens to be filled impacts whether or not a guest at Omni Frisco. Good companies college was the value of hard work and balance. volunteering and become acquainted with a commuter college allowed me the flexibility with a lot of fellow Rebels. We have great chemistry, comes back. But making sure that will hone in on good leadership and I was working full time while taking a full load of the organization. Learn the ins and outs as a to work full time and study full time. The and when you’re looking at leaders and forming a great you have a clear strategy is also advance those individuals.” classes, which taught me to be driven, resilient, volunteer. Build up your résumé while taking Hospitality College was right for me because it team, chemistry means a lot. We come from a common important. You need to know who and finish what I started.” classes that pertain to your career interests.” gave me a broad range of skills that helped me background, we were educated in a similar environment, you are targeting and what niche build my career.” and we respect each other. We’re gelling.” you are going for.”

36 SPRING 2020 PHOTO BY LONNIE TIMMONS III PETER ARCEO PHOTO COURTESY SAN MANUEL CASINO; LEXY COLEY PHOTO BY EVAN LUECKE SPRING 2020 37 After initial meetings with Shoemaker and Reed-Francois in late 2018, Roa went to work, spending hours studying proper survey-writing techniques and constantly revising the questions she wrote. And as she began exchanging versions with Shoemaker—who in addition to being a pricing expert is well-versed in survey writing—she quickly discovered that putting together a detailed, unbiased survey was a lot more difficult than she ever imagined. “What I learned through this process and working with Dean Shoemaker is that there’s definitely a right way and a wrong way to craft the wording of a survey,” Roa says. “Your verbiage has to be crystal clear but in a manner that’s neutral. If not, you’re affecting the outcome of the survey.”

“We wanted to find out what Allegiant Stadium will host UNLV Football and her undergraduate degree in hospitality the Las Vegas Raiders. management—a degree she first began was important to And the Survey Says … pursuing at UNLV in 1997 before pressing the pause button to embark on a career in our fans ...” When UNLV Athletics Director Desiree Reed-Francois was looking for and the UNLV William F. Harrah College the sports world. - Desiree Reed Francois, UNLV Athletics Director help on how best to set ticket pricing for the inaugural football season of Hospitality—and in particular, Dean “It was perfect timing because I needed an at new Allegiant Stadium, she turned to the Hospitality College. That led Stowe Shoemaker. internship, and essentially this survey was to the creation of a comprehensive survey, the results of which stand to “How the conversation originally started my internship,” says Andrea Roa, who spent Says Shoemaker bluntly: “Surveys are was Stowe came and talked to our athletic a decade around the turn of the century complex beasts.” have a lasting effect department about creating fan memories working in broadcast operations and game Eventually, with the dean’s assistance, by Matt Jacob and about improving customer service,” entertainment for Major League Baseball. “I Roa was able to tame the beast, whittling she says. “From that came a series of got to work one-on-one with athletics and an initial 100-question survey down to a additional conversations, and when I one-on-one with Dean Shoemaker and his more manageable 56 questions. In July, t’s not every day that one is new palace with the UNLV football team. What she wanted was to find a perfect started learning more about Stowe, I team to help craft the survey.” the survey was emailed in waves to more handed the keys to a $2 billion Without question, the football program’s balance. She ultimately got there, but discovered he’s one of the world’s leading That survey ended up being than 60,000 individuals, most of whom stadium and told, “It’s all yours to move to Allegiant Stadium will open the not before seeking assistance from a pricing experts. So I asked him for his help multifaceted because Reed-Francois’ goal had previously purchased tickets to a use for several Saturdays each fall.” door to numerous revenue-enhancing world-renowned pricing expert, one in creating a pricing survey for us.” was multifaceted: Besides learning what football game or were alumni who had a IYet Desiree Reed-Francois finds herself in opportunities. After all, a modern stadium whose office just happens to be located That request was met with an Rebel football fans would be willing to pay known affinity for athletics. that very position, as the UNLV Director with modern amenities is certain to but a few football fields away from that of enthusiastic, “Yes!” for a seat at Allegiant Stadium, she wanted Besides basic demographic of Athletics leads her football program’s enthuse the Rebels’ fan base, and that Reed-Francois. “I felt that it was incredibly important to find out what those fans valued in a information, survey recipients were asked transition from its longtime home of Sam increased enthusiasm figures to trickle that I help our home institution,” game-day experience—everything from where they would prefer to sit in the new Boyd Stadium in east Henderson to brand- down to the athletics department’s budget. *** Shoemaker says. “I love UNLV, and it’s parking, tailgating, and the process of stadium; what they would be willing to pay new Allegiant Stadium in the shadows of At the same time, though, Reed- important to create great experiences for entering the stadium to food and beverage for a VIP seat compared with a seat in the the Las Vegas Strip. Francois—who arrived at UNLV in June In late August 2019, after examining Rebel fans—and there’s nothing better offerings and in-game entertainment. upper deck; what they thought was a fair Oh, sure, the Las Vegas Raiders will be 2017, just three months before stadium data compiled from a comprehensive than having a full stadium. Plus, I have “We wanted to find out what was price for parking; and which in-stadium the primary tenant of the state-of-the-art construction began—faced a bit of a survey of Rebel football fans and targeted high respect for Desiree and what the important to our fans, what they were amenities they valued (and didn’t value). jewel that’s currently sprouting skyward quandary as it pertained to establishing alumni, the UNLV athletics department athletic department is trying to do. So looking for,” she says. “So we looked at this They were also queried about their overall just west of Interstate 15 and Russell a ticket-pricing structure for the new officially unveiled season ticket pricing for the question was, ‘How could I use my survey as more than just setting prices. entertainment spending habits, and Road. But in striking a deal with the State stadium. Sure, she wanted to maximize next year’s inaugural season at Allegiant expertise in pricing to help the university?’” This is a $2 billion stadium, so we want to their likes and dislikes related to those of Nevada that paved the way for the revenue, but she didn’t want to set prices Stadium. Less than three weeks later, One of Shoemaker’s first moves was be thoughtful, strategic, and methodical experiences. They were even asked to rate stadium’s construction—and, ultimately, so high that it would turn fans away. Nor did a relieved-but-upbeat Reed-Francois to loop in a former student who not only in everything we do as it relates to this the importance of the on-field product. the NFL franchise’s relocation from she want to alienate the segment of Rebel was sitting in her office, reflecting on a had an interest in research, but who new era. And for us to be responsive, we “For instance, how many people are going Oakland—the Raiders agreed to share their fans whose discretionary income is limited. partnership between her department was an internship short of completing needed to listen.” to the games just because they want

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LEARN FROM THE BEST IN THE

to drink beer in an environment that’s fun versus how many want to make sure they have the best sightlines because they don’t want to miss a moment of the WORLD action?” Roa says. “At the end of the day, we really wanted to understand behavior FROM ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD and what drives those behaviors.” Adds Reed-Francois: “This is a very competitive entertainment town. So finding out who our customer is, what they expect, and what they want was critically important. This survey helped us identify all that.”

*** EARN YOUR MASTER’S IN

Thanks in part to a juicy carrot— HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT ONLINE. those who completed the survey were automatically entered into a drawing for As one o the toprated hospitality schools in the nation, a chance to win passes to an Allegiant Ns Harrah ollege o Hospitality invites you to eperience Stadium luxury suite for one of next year’s UNLV football games—the response our worldrenowned instruction with the convenience o online rate was strong enough to generate a 350-page report. learning. usy proessionals lie you can now move your career ahead with a aster o Hospitality Administrationcompletely “This project online. That means earning your net degree is as close as fits in perfectly your nearest nternet connection.

with what the The new stadium is scheduled to open in the Choose your area of focus, and then customize operationalize the data we collected? And summer of 2020. Hospitality with Stowe’s help, we were able to do that.” your degree to your goals: While acknowledging that the survey College is trying was difficult to craft and that it “was helping the athletic department, it turns constantly on my mind” for months, Roa out a second UNLV entity also stands • Hospitality Management Track to do in terms of says the hard work was worth it—and not to reap some important benefits: the just because it satisfied the internship Hospitality College. That’s because its research ...” credits she needed to finally finish off that Shoemaker says the survey yielded “a • Gaming Management Track - Dean Stowe Shoemaker bachelor’s degree, which she received tremendous amount of rich data” that in May. As much as anything, she says it he intends to turn into a publishable positions the UNLV athletics department academic article to further one of the That report helped Reed-Francois to get the most of out of its new home. college’s main missions. determine what to charge for season “When you get that nice, new Ferrari, “This project fits in perfectly with what tickets for the Rebels’ seven home games you need to know how to drive it,” Roa the Hospitality College is trying to do in Put career power at your fingertips. during the 2020 season. But it also taught says. “And that’s what Desiree sees and terms of its research, which we want to Contact us to begin. Call 702.895.5327 her much more. “We’ve been surveying understands: Yes, we have that shiny new be relevant, rigorous, and have a wide our fans since fall 2017,” she says. “But toy, but we really need to know how to use reach,” he says. “In other words, it’s not just or write [email protected]. this survey took it to a different level. It it. That’s probably one of the reasons [she] research written for other academics; it’s broadened the scope of the answers wanted to do this survey and do it well. research that’s written for others who can and the data we received, and Stowe Because what’s the use of having a brand- use it to help improve their business and also helped us make sense of that data. new stadium … if you’re not effectively their fan experiences.” Because it’s one thing to have a lot of utilizing it in the long run?” information, but how do we actualize and As much as this survey was about M F H M unlv.edu/hospitality/mha

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Top: Student Delainey Rowland (2nd from left, bottom row) and her Trinchero tour mates learn about the wine-making process. Bottom: Student Beau McKelvey (2nd from left) networks with students from around the world at YHS.

“This trip allowed me

BANFI SCHOLASTIC TOUR, Italy Student Kristina Dean (above) explores the to really BEYOND THE CLASSROOM team made that happen. I can’t thank them fundamentals of winemaking on the Banfi tour. Trinchero’s Napa Valley Wine Education A College of Hospitality student is enough for the opportunity of a lifetime!” Left: Dean with Banfi participants. program. The gracious Trinchero team selected each summer to join food and provides students with tours of their experience my Kristina Dean (’19), 2019 Banfi scholar beverage students from around the world “Getting to attend YHS was truly a once-in- wineries, in-depth tutorials about the Hands-on on a seven-day educational tour of Italy. a-lifetime experience. Being able to meet winemaking process, gourmet meals, field before I Presented (and generously funded) by the YOUNG HOTELIERS SUMMIT, other highly competitive college students and a three-night stay at their historic Hospitality Castello Banfi winery in Montalcino, Italy, Switzerland from around the globe made me want to Sutter Home. graduated.” the tour exposes students to all facets Thanks to donations that support student push myself for much more in life. It was - student Delainey Rowland of the winemaking industry, including development, the Hospitality College everything I asked for and more. From the “This trip allowed me to really experience Students get an up-close grape cultivation, wine production, and funds two qualifying students each March networking to the beautiful country of my field before I graduated. It also set me view of the industry and food pairings. to attend the Young Hoteliers Summit Switzerland, I truly had a blast at YHS.” apart as a candidate for several jobs and (YHS) alongside student delegates from Beau McKelvey (’19), 2019 YHS participant internships! I want to say a huge thank you to the world with the help “As college students, a lot of what we learn is more than 40 of the world’s leading everyone at Trinchero for providing me with of some true champions conceptual, but this experience gave me the hospitality institutions. By attending YHS, TRINCHERO WINE TOUR such an amazing experience and allowing opportunity to see the concepts in practice. students learn from industry experts, me to meet and make friends with students SCHOLARSHIP, Napa Valley of education I saw the grape vines, the picking and get the opportunity to network with who have similar interests and passions.” Under a scholarship program established sorting process, the barrel-making process, fellow aspiring hoteliers, and compete by Trinchero Family Estates, a select group Delainey Rowland (’19), 2019 Trinchero scholar and the aging and bottling process. The trip against other institutions in a realistic of Harrah College of Hospitality students is one I will remember forever, and the Banfi industry challenge. qualify each January to participate in

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n pa Ja

Ala ska China a aw “The hands-on training I’ve in Ok acquired has been very

valuable. I am learning an iw how to deal with real-life Ta problems as opposed to

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how many hospitality classes a “The most surprising n t e have come in handy and i thing I learned from V prepared me for this training.” the Paws Up was how unified and cooperative NINA PEISCHL all the departments Pinstripes must be to ensure Oak Brook, Illinois Job each guest is provided INTERNS REPORT with the best service. Each department is in constant communication with the others so that everyone is on the same page concerning things like special celebrations, allergies, and past stays.” “I learned the things MIRANDA HUIZING that change your life/ The Resort at Paws Up career are usually Greenough, Montana obtained when you push the limits of your comfort zone. If I never s part of studied in Vietnam, the Harrah I would not have College of learned the different Hospitality’s perspectives of the requiredA internship coaches that I worked program, the college’s with, from Egypt to career services and PGA Golf Management offices placed China, Vietnam to “I learned so much about 260 students into internship France. I wouldn’t have luxury travel needs and positions during summer experienced the global expectations. Service is 2019. That number increased influence and insights never sacrificed for guests, to nearly 600 over the course if I stayed in the U.S. for and the extent to which the of the 2019 Fall Semester. my internship.” ladies and gentlemen of Our summer interns The Ritz-Carlton commit worked in fields ranging COLE CHRISTENSEN themselves to providing the from gaming to golf, and Ernie Els Golf Academy finest personalized service traveled to six international Hanoi, Vietnam continuously amazes me.” locales, including China, Guam, and Taiwan. Here’s ii JENNIFER JAIMES Hawa what some students The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe had to say about their Truckee, California internship experiences.

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INSIDE SCOOP It’s not Hypothetical Hospitality students prep for their careers by working Deliverables on real projects for clients Marketing plan; formal presentation to company expecting real results executives

emester grades and exams Skills Developed weren’t the primary focus Understanding of market of Dr. Finley Cotrone’s Hotel research; consumer behavior; Operations & Management and promotion strategies; market SDr. Tony Henthorne’s Marketing 2019 Fall segmentation; effective Semester classes. Student success hinged communication on producing deliverables for two out-of- state companies developing innovative tourist destinations. Deliverables In both cases, the companies wanted Missions, visions, value to draw from the students’ raw, objective statements; operations talent and eagerness for results. These and service standards; college/industry collaborations underscore formal presentation how students can add value to actual industry projects while giving their résumés Skills Developed a major boost. Effective communication Opposite page: Students video chat with Texas hot springs resort project developer Jim Mikula. in a task force; translating “They weren’t Project: WindMark Beach-Downtown Project Above: Students tour the Downtown area of the research into an action Location: Northwest Florida Coast WindMark Beach Project in Florida. plan; strategic thinking Project: Mineral Springs Resort just students to Instructor: Tony Henthorne Location: Gonzales County, Texas Partner: The St. Joe Company Instructor: Finley Cotrone me; they were Partner: Alumnus Jim Mikula ’78 Project Background senior marketing manager Lanier Motes area in a whole new way. We’re excited to my task force.” When Hospitality College professor visited Las Vegas to share intricacies see a fresh perspective.” Project Background ways to incorporate artificial intelligence - Jim Mikula ’78 Tony Henthorne approached real estate of the project with the class; and in — Lanier Motes, St. Joe Senior Marketing Manager Alumnus Jim Mikula is part of a development and other technologies to help property company St. Joe about its WindMark Beach October, the company sponsored a trip for team that is transforming a hospital in rural management alleviate labor shortages. In project—one of the company’s high-end students to visit the WindMark community “Real projects like WindMark have moving Texas into an artisanal hot springs resort. early December 2019, students presented Florida beach communities—the company in Florida. In December 2019, company parts that respond to the business Built in the 1940s as a sanctuary for polio Mikula with their results. “This project taught us to start with big embraced the idea of having Henthorne’s executives came back to campus for environment in real time. With this patients, the hospital and adjoining hot ideas and not to limit ourselves. It’s graduate-level class develop a marketing formal presentations by the class. project, we got to examine actual data springs served as a center for healing and Participants say ... important for students to participate in strategy for the community’s Downtown and have live clients we can direct wellness for nearly 65 years. “I asked the students to help me get the real projects because we need to practice area. The plan would identify ways to Participants say ... questions to. With imagined projects we To help set the project up for success, property started on the right foot. They implementing concepts we learn in class. attract new businesses and customers— “The WindMark Beach community was often overlook challenges, which limits Mikula enlisted the help of Dr. Finley were not just students to me; they were Many students finish college with great helping to mitigate the effects of the 2008 built in a different part of the region, our learning potential.” Cotrone’s class to research spa/hot my task force. They played a critical role in knowledge but don’t know how it applies economic crash, which stalled growth in and the type of marketing required is springs trends and develop operating developing this resort.” in a real workplace setting.” the area, particularly in terms of amenities, completely different from our other — Menh Diep, graduate student / Marketing Services course and service standards for the property. – Jim Mikula, mineral springs resort – Sonia Vazquez-Quintero, senior / Hotel like shops and restaurants. communities. I think that students from Additionally, students brainstormed development team Operations & Management course Early in the 2019 Fall semester, St. Joe another part of the country can see the

46 SPRING 2020 SPRING 2020 47 Giving ALUMNA OF THE YEAR “Colleen is an Back industry veteran who has contributed greatly to the success of many of Las (L-R) Amy Howard, Chrystal Triguero, and Anthony Martin. COMMUNITY MATTERS Vegas’ iconic Strip resorts, including the Paying It Ogletree Deakins Scholarship Cosmopolitan, where “I am a first-generation college student who came from two immigrant she helped shape parents. So they are vicariously living the American dream through me. To be Forward able to come home and make them proud, saying ‘I’m going to college debt all the marketing Pays Off free’ is super gratifying.” and hotel revenue – Crystal Triguero, Ogletree Deakins Scholarship recipient/Freshman interested in meetings and events management strategies since ome very special Hospitality College its opening.” students recently – Bill McBeath ’86 had the chance “Finding an opportunity to support students “I think we all know what it’s like to be saddled CEO, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas who have a passion for hospitality, at a with that debt and work full time while we are Sto meet with the donors program in our own backyard… it’s really an in school. We wanted to help lessen that stress who funded scholarships honor to be part of that. We’re thankful for a little bit… so you [Crystal] can concentrate that provided them with that opportunity.” on why you’re here.” an opportunity to pursue —Anthony Martin, Ogletree Deakins —Amy Howard, Ogletree Deakins Scholarship/ UNLV HARRAH a college education. Both Scholarship/Ogletree Deakins Office Ogeltree Deakins Associate I recall fondly the days COLLEGE OF HOSPITALITY students and donors arrived Managing Shareholder when Colleen was my with messages of gratitude. student—sitting in Everyone left feeling inspired. the front row, always 2019 Alumna inquisitive, and willing to challenge me. These of the Year qualities propelled her to the C-suite. But despite Taeubel Family Scholarship Colleen Birch ’99 MacKenzie Family her success, Colleen Scholarship “The scholarship made it so I didn’t have remains very connected to the college. She’s “I came from a single- to worry about paying for classes and Congratulations! books. I could focus on school and my always willing to share her The college, the university, and the parent family and time, particularly when industry salute you for your service wanted to work hard to grades, which is very important because it comes to mentoring and your support. help my mom. Through I want to graduate Summa Cum Laude. I students. I can’t think of scholarships, I was able am so thankful to the Taeubels. This anyone more deserving of scholarship has truly been a blessing.” this honor. to get my freshman and – Stowe Shoemaker sophomore years paid for. —Whitney Collins, Taeubel Family Scholarship recipient/ Harrah College of Hospitality Senior, interested in hospitality entertainment It’s great that I don’t have “Kim and I knew we needed to Dean give back. We’d been looking at to stress about finances.” “I love food and beverage, but I also love the school for a while, and we – Ileana Nii, MacKenzie Family to look at the smallest details, which thought ‘It’s about time.’ There Scholarship recipient/Sophomore, is why I like finance. This scholarship are a lot of different ways to interested in hotel operations and give back, but in the end we travel and tourism gave me a chance to explore both while wanted to give directly to letting me focus on school and not so students to see their success.” Join us April 27, 2020, to honor —Tony Taeubel/Taeubel Family Alumna of the Year Colleen much on the money.” Scholarship Founder Birch and Industry Leader of the Year Bill Hornbuckle at the – Maggie Gee, Taeubel Family Scholarship recipient/ Vallen Dinner of Distinction Senior, double majoring at Four Seasons Hotel Las in Finance and Hospitality Management with an Above: (L-R) Tony Taeubel, Maggie Gee, Vegas. For information, email interest in food and beverage Whitney Collins, and Kim Taeubel. [email protected].

48 SPRING 2020 SPRING 2020 49 GIVING BACK THE SECRET OF HIS SUCCESS

Hornbuckle (2nd from left) talks shop with scholarships recipients: (L-R) Darian Fluker, sophomore; Meagan Taylor, sophomore; and Frank Luis, freshman.

Four weeks later, Hornbuckle and his two friends were driving out to Vegas—a destination they almost didn’t make. “I had paid $100 for a station wagon,” Hornbuckle recalls. “The car died before we got out of Connecticut. A friend’s dad loaned us his van … so that’s how we got to Vegas.” Fast-forward a few years and Hornbuckle was a UNLV graduate and well on his well way to becoming one of the college’s greatest success stories, ascending through the ranks at Mirage Resorts, Caesars Palace, and then MGM. The Secret “Bill is a great example of someone who really took what he learned in school and ran with it in the industry,” of His Success says Hospitality College Dean Stowe Shoemaker. “Others would have been content to stay where they were, but Bill From busboy to COO of one of the largest resort brands in kept on pushing.” It’s a success story that doesn’t surprise Cindy Kiser the world, Industry Leader of the Year Bill Hornbuckle ’84 has Murphey, a fellow Hospitality College grad (’80, ’95 MS) never forgotten those who helped him get to the top. Now, who is the president and COO of New York-New York. he’s determined to help others get there too “When Bill has a vision, he holds onto it, works incredibly hard to make it come to life, and inevitably makes it better,” by Angela Ramsey says Kiser Murphey. Hornbuckle’s history of pushing the envelope may partially explain his skyrocket to success, but it’s his he story behind Bill Hornbuckle’s rise to commitment to helping others (particularly students) that the pinnacle of the hospitality industry is truly sets him apart. That commitment is one of the reasons an interesting, even inspiring one. But it’s Hornbuckle was chosen as the Hospitality College’s 2019 not complicated: The president and COO of Industry Leader of the Year. “Bill is a great TMGM Resorts made it the old-fashioned way—by working Among his numerous community-wide philanthropic his way up. efforts, Hornbuckle and his wife, Wendy, established It was a steady and often unglamorous climb, one that an endowed scholarship fund in 2004 to provide much- example of someone involved years of saying “yes” to changing assignments, needed financial support to Nevada-based students undesirable shifts, and incremental promotions. pursuing a hospitality degree at UNLV. who really took what “I was a room service attendant and a busboy at the It was a logical decision for the UNLV alum and 40-year Jockey Club,” Hornbuckle recalls. “I worked in banquets at veteran of the hotel-gaming industry. But Hornbuckle’s he learned in school the old MGM. My first real job—where I ended up in a suit— inspiration to create the scholarship stemmed from was as an assistant hotel manager at the Flamingo Hilton something even more personal. “I was poor when I was the opportunity to meet with the MGM exec in November and ran with it in working six days a week.” in Catholic high school,” Hornbuckle recalls. “And I didn’t 2019 at his corporate office in the Bellagio. It was a rare The hospitality bug struck Hornbuckle at an early age—18 know it but my parents weren’t paying tuition. They opportunity for the students to talk shop with an industry the industry.” to be exact, when he got his first industry gig as a bartender couldn’t afford it. But the school kept me on for three-and- icon and share the impact of the scholarship directly with in his home state of Connecticut, where at the time the legal a-half years. Ten years later, I finally found out and said, ‘I their donor. - Dean Stowe Shoemaker drinking age was 18. He says he enjoyed the fast pace of the want to pay it back.’ The administrator of the school said, “It’s an incredibly fulfilling feeling to know that someone service environment but quickly recognized the hospitality ‘Don’t pay it back; do something better. Set up a fund.’ So I I had never met believes in me,” sophomore Meagan Taylor Before their visit ended, Hornbuckle thanked the scene in Connecticut “wasn’t really happening.” With a few paid for other kids to go to school, and it was meaningful.” says. “A few weeks ago, we were doing mock interviews for students, wished them well, and left them with one last community college credits under his belt, Hornbuckle That legacy of giving is both meaningful and powerful a class and I was incredibly nervous. It dawned on me that piece of advice: “The only thing that I would ask of you began inquiring about an up-and-coming school out West— for the recipients of the Hornbuckle Family Scholarship the president of the MGM believed in me enough to invest is that you remember this. Someday when you are in the what was then called the “Hotel School” at UNLV. at UNLV. Some of the latest scholarship beneficiaries got in me … which was a real confidence booster.” position to do so, give back to someone else.”

50 SPRING 2020 SPRING 2020 51 GIVING BACK AL’S CLASS NOTES

> Al’s Class Notes event, he remembered best, Al, and thank you for Al is a legend. He’s me–even after 30 years. all of your dedication to one of three UNLV My stepdaughter Sydney hotel education. professors whose Bosshart ’12 also went to - Jennifer Zajac Winters ’93 names I remember the Hospitality College. I with fondness. asked who the professors TRAVELING ON were, and she mentioned - Matthew Abramsky ’94 A TRAIN TO ROME Al was teaching. So, I said, and wishing I spoke “Great guy. Knows his stuff, PROFESSOR AL Italian, Al jokingly and is an easy A.” IZZOLO WAS A GREAT said to “just-a add-a TEACHER and industry - Jim Mikula ’78 an a-ya to-a da end-a professional. I learned of-a every-a word-a.” great things from his CONGRATULATIONS Perfecto! Hey, wait?! teachings, and he really ON YOUR RETIREMENT! - Patricia Foster ’89 cared about the students. very educational class to I knew Al from UNLV first, Professor Al Izzolo attends Wishing you all the very a graduation in 1990. If you worked in food and learn about the different but I got to know him best for the coming years. AL, CONGRATS ON beverage, you realized he types of beer. better when he became - Lina Kim, YOUR RETIREMENT! I was right about everything a member of our board. teacher but a better - Brayton Williams ’07 assistant professor enjoyed chatting with you he taught. Al once told us Wow, 43 years! Way to go! I friend. Enjoy retirement! when you stopped by the about meeting a server wish you the very best, Al. You deserve it! I ENJOYED I MET AL AT THE Boughner Career Center with a funny name, like CHITCHATTING with Al -Barbara Hermes, - Matt Snitzer ’07 LOYOLA UNIVERSITY when I worked there back Star Trek. I later took a trip about all kinds of alcohol, college staff food service, an ARA in BEH. Enjoy retirement! to Oakland and went to a the role beverage has in ONE DAY BETWEEN facility. I was there on an restaurant called Mama’s - Lisa Rubin ’12 Ph.D. the hospitality industry, IT WAS A PLEASURE to CLASSES, Uncle Al caught ARA fellowship, and Al Kitchen. The host called and swapping stories have Al as my internship me in the hall and said, was a corporate exec. We a server over and said, I TRAVELED WITH AL about the Tau Kappa instructor at the original “Packer, come with me. I got found humor to carry us ‘Hey Star Trek, take their to Australia and Fiji, as Epsilon boys in his office. Castaways Hotel and you an internship.” We went through some stressful order.’ I never laughed so well as Europe. He came Casino. In later years to his office, where he tried situations, like cafeteria hard in my life. I told my - Alycia ’18 to be known as “Euro Al” after graduating with to explain in vain the roles food fights! We stayed wife, ‘Professor Izzolo was to us at the time. I have my bachelor’s in 1979, I of public relations. I took in touch over the years, serious about this!’ I TOOK A CLASS never learned so much coordinated internships the internship and still and both married lovely, from Professor Izzolo as I did being immersed - Perry Keith Todd ’84 at the Dunes Hotel and work in PR, thanks to him understanding ladies. He in 1977. I remember him in the culture. It was Casino for Al when I was looking out for me. Happy is a class act, and I wish talking to us about the amazing, fun, and had a I had the pleasure the resident manager. Retirement, Captain. Thank him well! real world and how it lasting impact on my life. of being one of Al’s Best of everything to you, you for being amazing. would tempt us to live - Gary W. Brown ’73 teaching assistants Al, in future years as The - Angela (Szewczyk) beyond our means as we - Brad Packer ’95 in 2016. Getting Captain on the high seas. Archibald ’07 grow in our careers. This to learn from and IT WAS ALWAYS AN lesson helped me build a to associate teach with Al was - Gary Waters ’79, ’93 AL, I ENJOYED HONOR There are too successful 40-year career all with Al Izzolo. When I a highlight of my WORKING WITH YOU many memories to with Aramark and retire Thank you those years in the Hotel interviewed for a Japan college experience. mention just one, comfortably to enjoy my for your years of College. Sandra and I wish internship he ran, I was Congratulations but two things stick wonderful family. passion and heart you the best in retirement. comforted knowing it’d be on retiring! out in my mind on behalf of multiple a great opportunity since - Tom Minor ’78 - Lyell Metcalf from my days at - Emelia Santos ’18 generations of he was involved. When I UNLV: Runnin’ Rebel students, the Hotel found out I was selected, AL WEARS MANY AL WAS PART OF basketball and Al AL WAS A GREAT College, UNLV Al was thrilled about what HATS. He’s on the board A NEW GROUP of Izzolo–specifically TEACHER. I had the Campus & Greek Japan had in store for of directors for my condo professors at UNLV Hotel summer studies chance to travel with Life! Stay around them and vice versa. If he association and has done College in the late 70s. in Switzerland. Aussie Al to Australia and and stay involved. wasn’t involved directly a great job of listening to What I remember best Fiji. The trip was amazing, Go Rebels! with the internship, I’m - Lucia DePretto ’92 and returning messages about Al was his intention and Al always made great not sure I would have for many years now. He - Regent Sam to provide practical memories that will last been as comfortable THE FIRST TIME I owns a few units in our Lieberman ‘96 knowledge that we a lifetime. He also had a traveling overseas. I MET AL, I was walking area and walks around would use in our careers. beer club, and it was a had one of the greatest through the Hotel College from time to time, talking I HAVE SO MANY And just as important, experiences in my life. to my pre-law class. I with neighbors and FAVORITE STORIES OF whenever I was on UNLV legend Al Izzolo and Sending you the very his wife Cora attend the listening to their concerns. AL. He wasn’t just a great campus or at an alumni college’s 2019 Vallen Dinner. Al’s Class Notes >

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> Al’s Class Notes Hotel Icon Christopher E. Ades ’75 AL WAS NOT ONLY a PROFESSOR IZZOLO for my intern class, and I amazing, all the way into Hotwire Sarah N. Aivaz ’04 saw a flyer about trips to very important person WAS one of my favorites! got an A. Over the years, my 40s! We still chat from Donor Honor Roll House of Blues Sandra Albert ’89 Australia and Europe, and during my time as a He was always upbeat I have met with Al and time to time and enjoy Mark L. Jarvis ’91 Aliante Golf Club contacted him to learn student but also in my and would do anything some other teachers at each other’s company and As the UNLV Harrah College of Hospitality strives to continue offering Christopher R. Johnson Carol A. Almeter more. While my major was early career. We had to help. Before I was the various Hotel Admin humor. You most certainly a quality, affordable, and distinctive education for students with a Joshua Kao ’18 Lawrence E. law and not hospitality, great times together graduated, he oversaw parties. Nothing quite like will go down in UNLV passion for hospitality, the consistent support of our corporate partners, Michael F. Kawazoe ’18 Altschul ’86 he still highly suggested during our travels and as my internship in New that campus beverage history and will never alumni, parents, and foundation friends is critical to our success. This Las Vegas 51’s Daniel S. Ambrose ’15 that I go on the trip. If representatives of IFSEA. Jersey. When I returned club with the educational be forgotten! Thanks philanthropic support helps the college fund vital programs, such Las Vegas National Debbie L. Anderson I enjoyed it, he said I He was very helpful to to school for my last presentations. We never for everything, Capitan as scholarships, professional development for students, and faculty Golf Club Anita Mann should consider changing my son Paul, who also semester, completing my had that in the old days– Al! Love to you and Las Vegas Sands Productions my major. I loved the trip received his master’s internship paper seemed just Al and a book in FDH. happy retirement. enrichment, thereby strengthening our position as the top hospitality Corporation Bruce D. Ansteth ’82 and enjoyed learning from our college. Al is to slip my mind on various I am really glad I got to program in the country. To show our appreciation, we’re highlighting the Wendy Laugesen ’96 Edward T. Antos - Nora Obrien ’96 about the hospitality someone who you will occasions. Before I knew take classes and hang out following generous donors who gave to the college during the 2018-2019 Sandra Lebeck ’91 Apocalypse Vegas industry, which convinced always remember and it, graduation was upon with him. I wish you all of fiscal year (July 1, 2018, through June 30, 2019). Thank you! Sylvia S. Lim ’93 Cydney C. Appolito ’15 Let’s just say I me to change my major. cannot thank enough. us. Realizing I messed up, the best in the future. Patrick Lindsey Daniel M. Ardissone ’80 love Gary Austin’s I am a graduate of the Thanks Al! Al smiled, shook his head, Mac Knives Inc. Nattha - Bill Newman ’83 Sportsbook! UNLV in Hotel College with a and allowed me to hand in Mandalay Bay Resort Areeboonsap ’98 - Don Boobe ’78 the ’80s was special! $500,000 - $10,000 – Michael E. Drace & Sobel Westex bachelor’s and master’s, my paper-only a semester Jeffrie L. Jones & Casino Melissa A. Arendash I ENJOYED WORKING Thank you, Mr. I. $999,999 $19,999 South Point Hotel thanks to Professor Al. late! I was forever grateful. Encore Beach Club & Casino William J. Newman ’83 Charlene L. Ariza ’86 THANK YOU, across the hall from Al. Boyd Gaming Hari and Anjali Agrawal I wish him only the best - Ricky T. ’85 Enterprise Holdings Southern Highlands Jonathan P. Novak Assail LLC - Teresa Manley ’08 PROFESSOR AL, for Current students and Corporation Banfi Vintners of everything! Foundation Golf Club Oakland Raiders Athleta helping us all create alumni were always Engelstad Family Foundation I GOT TO KNOW AL Foundation Eureka Casino Resort SPI Entertainment On the Record Veronica Atkins BIG AL WAS A MENTOR lifelong memories! - Rochelle Bernstein ’89 waiting in the hall outside Gregory ’83 and pretty well since I was the The J. Willard & Alice S. Anna MacKenzie Marc J. Falcone Arch and Jerry ’91 and Maria Pribil Atomic Liquors and a real leader for of his office to see him Margaret Stokes - Tessa Riess-Norton ’05 president of IFSEA and Marriott Foundation Scott ’88 and Hakkasan Rio Secco Golf Club Jason E. Aubin ’02 students. It was always a AL WAS A WONDERFUL every day. I liked him so Holdings, LLC Asiah S. Stone he was our adviser. He MGM Resorts Kimberly Sibella Aaron B. Rosenthal Jacob Avneri ’72 great time to attend the PROFESSOR and much I had my baby on International Margaret M. Hausbeck Tito Tiberti ONE OF MY FAVORITE attended my wedding to Anthony and Royal Links Axehole Vegas Hotel Association happy mentor. He gave me the his 70th birthday! Station Casinos, LLC Kimberly Taeubel Ann M. Hoff ’90 Tropicana Las Vegas MEMORIES was a joint- Dan Hawkins just after Loron M. Rustom ’03 Giselle Baglione ’85 hours at Sunset Park on first opportunity in a International Game Hotel and Casino, Inc. school (UNLV & NYIT) trip - Robyn Hadden ’05 graduation in 1982, and Saks Fifth Avenue Xiucheng Bai Fridays. He would share his leadership style role as a $100,000 - $5,000 -$9,999 Technology IGT UFC GYM for 3.5 weeks in Europe, he was the hit of the Jay W. Sanderson ’70 Joseph V. Baldini ’70 knowledge and experience TA for his TCA 201 class. I $499,999 Beverly Hills Hotel Wanda W. Jong ’90 Roger Wagner ’69 and Carolyn Gilbey-Wagner San Manuel Band of Carolyn R. Baldwin ’08 led by Captain Al. Thanks I WAS AL’S ADMIN dance floor. Our daughter Christopher ’13 and Cynthia Kiser with students. After enjoyed every moment of Ambassador Hotel Mission Indians Patrik ’14 and for the memories, sir! from the late 80s to early Lauren also had Al as Group, Republic Lisa ’15 Cain Murphey ’80, ’95 and Waldorf Astoria graduating, I collaborated that and felt very honored Wayne Murphey Derron Shields ’84 Maria Balint Enjoy retirement! 90s. Best experience of an instructor 24 years of Korea Global Experience Wynn Resorts and Eileen Musser with Mr. Izzolo in to have been recognized Specialists, Inc. Lee’s Discount Liquor Balloons With A Twist my life. I will never forget later. He told us at her By Dzign Wynn Resorts Limited Shoes & More LLC establishing an internship - Roberto Ramirez ’05 by him for the role! Debra ’81 and Hae Un and Sun Ja Lee Employee Foundation Carl L. Banks what an amazing leader, graduation that it made Hainan Sunup Group Stoney’s Rockin program at many of the Investment Co., Ltd. Harlan Jacobs Lusso Auto Spa Adam Zapata Hernan Banos ’17 - Lauren Wier ’11 mentor, and friend he him feel old to teach a Country gaming/hotel companies AL AND I HAVE Jewish Community Francine D. Mazza Roberta Barnes-Webb was to all of us–not just child of his students! Will Shuirman ’93 and Charles Webb in Las Vegas. Thank you for REMAINED FRIENDS $50,000 - Foundation San Diego MGM Resorts $500 - $999 Al ate at my house his students, peers, and Al, you made the Hotel Tao Group Las Vegas your friendship, Al. and see each other a few $99,999 Paula Eylar-Lauzon Foundation Angel Park Golf Club Base Entertainment when he interviewed family but anyone who program fun, and we ’89 and Brian Lauzon The Ranch at Aelene Basinski times a year to catch up. Robert Boughner Patrick ’69 and Art by Adri Laguna Beach - Bob Hester ’79 in 1976. We made crossed his path. I will learned a lot from you! Edward A. Mady Rosalie Moreo Joseph R. Beja ’93 We actually spent time William ’69 and Baha Mar Resort The San Diego many memories love, respect, and cherish Happy retirement! Marriott Charlie J. Nelson ’99 Foundation Amanda Belarmino together at Gary Austin’s Bonnie Paulos International, Inc. Foundation There will forever together, and he him forever. Thanks for 25 Nevada Hotel and John A. Bailey ’97 Perry K. Todd ’84 Tara M. Bell ’16 Sportsbook while I was a - Leslie Nacht Hawkins ’82 Lodging Association only be one Captain has always made years of friendship and $20,000 - Martin Barrett TPC Summerlin Bella Vita student! Last year during $1,000 - $4,999 OB Enterprises Al! I could go on and me laugh! He and a lot of great times! So Bonotel Sarah L. Tucker ’92 Wendyjean Bennett ’14 the UNLV fundraiser, I WISHING CAPTAIN $49,999 Bear’s Best Las Vegas Ogletree, Deakins, on about my favorite Cora made me a much love to you from Exclusive Travel Christopher W. actually bought a few AL an amazing, well- John ’75 and Bellagio Hotel & Casino Nash, Smoak & Vanguard Charitable stories! So many pork chop dinner your biggest fan. Always Melissa Ceriale Stewart, P.C. David E. Brough ’84 Endowment Program Benton ’15 bricks for AL to honor deserved retirement. Al Jeff R. Baldi great memories the evening my son to infinity and beyond! Charles ’71 and Park MGM Casey Jade Venetian Casino Resort Robert C. Benzo ’77 and memorialize our was one of those once- Michael J. and travels made Andrew was born. Lisa Lehman Photography William Carr Gallery Tammy K. Berger ’99 friendship. Even with all - Marilynn Yelvington in-a-lifetime professors Beaupre ’12, ’18 John D. Peiser ’78, ’07 with you, Al, and I We traveled Europe Anthony L. and Jason S. Cheney Alexzandria Williams ’15 Charles T. Beris ’13 of this, I will never forgive that not only teaches Suzanne L. Martin BMW of Las Vegas John E. Porter ’69 treasure them all! together ... what Suzanne E. Cohen ’94 Wolf Creek Golf Club Bo J. Bernhard ’99, ’02 him for giving me a B on WOW, AL! You were you the industry but truly Bill ’87 and Shannon CC Construction Raich Law, PLLC Cycle Vegas James W. Betts ’13 Congratulations a time! McBeath ’91 Andrew and Reflection Bay Yulia Yang ’17 my internship paper when absolutely my saving teaches life lessons and Christine Dallas on your retirement. Lenore and Peggy Cherng Golf Club Beverly Hills I believe I deserved an - Pat Moreo ’69 grace at UNLV. Once I took real-world experience. Rejuvenation Center Keep living the Paul Seidman Chushuwei Michael D. Rumbolz Dragonridge $499 & under A! Al, congratulations on Cruise Ship Management, There are not enough Al Country Club dream! Thanks for all Southern Glazer’s Photography Gail E. Sammons ’87 A Spray of Sunshine Colleen A. such a great career that I FIRST MET MR. the bond was formed, Izzolos in this world. I Evolution Yoga Bevilacqua ’12 the laughter and the Wine and Spirits, LLC Cirque Du Soleil Dee Sandoval Jerry Azoulay affected so many in such IZZOLO when I was a and we traveled a whole am fortunate that he (USA) Inc. Las Vegas Christopher B. great times shared. Diane Sandoval Bonnie S. Aaron Bigelow ’74 a positive way! student of his in 1980. lot my last two years at was both a teacher and The Cosmopolitan of Expedia Inc. Ivan Serna Daniel J. Abdalla Colleen R. Birch ’99 - Angela Birdsell Siegel ’91 Thanks for the C grade! I UNLV. You were always a friend. Las Vegas Adam M. Gordon ’04 - Bob Aerenson ’84 Russell A. Dazzio ’73 Shriners Hospitals for Mark M. Haley Matthew A. Steven Black had him again as a senior great fun, supportive, and Children Open Abramsky ’94 - Adam Gordon ’04 Barbara Ann K. Holmes Daniel E. Blake ’97

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Kelly S. Boan Israel Contreras Andrew J. Fischette ’10 Robyn K. Hadden ’05 Amanda Koeller ’13 Meet Fresh Chris Boncek Janelle Cornett Bernie Fischette Suzanne Haldeman ’10 Docho V. Kolev ’05 Frank R. Menezes ’90 Elizabeth A. Maira R. Corral ’11 Jessica Fischette Christian J. Jaffer J. Kovic ’05 Kelly M. Messina ’91 Bondurant ’88 John P. Coughlin ’02 Rita M. Fisher ’87 Halvorsen ’74 Carol T. Kretchmer MGM Grand Laura Book ’16 Courtyard by Amanda ’99 Peyrebrune Hard Rock Hotel Joshua B. Hotel & Casino Donald E. Boone ’77 Marriott Las Vegas Flanagan and John M. & Casino Kretchmer ’10 Clayton R. Miale ’98 Glorianne R. Bora ’86 Convention Center Flanagan ’00 Brian ’05 and Karla K. Kwist David A. Mikowski ’12 Angelique Hartsell Bowers Golf Academy Arthur J. Cusack ’91 Michelle Y. Flater ’92 LA Epic Club Crawls Jim R. Mikula ’78 Zachary M. Hay ’12 Brad Garrett’s Lia R. D’Alessio Flightlinez April Larsen Brittany Miller Cooper ’06 Bootleg Canyon Heritage at the Mirage Comedy Club Las Vegas Aces Christopher A. Miller ’09 Brandon David Flip N Out Extreme Barbara J. Hermes William R. Bradley ’00 Las Vegas Lights FC Michelle A. Miller Lori A. David Jacques ’77 and Matthew D. Bright Funds Las Vegas Marriott Stephen M. Miller ’83 Daylee Lilac Art Cheryl Flores Higginson ’07 Mitchell Brook Jonathan M. Lazarus ’88 Wendie E. Millsap Daniela C. De Souza ’98 Fogo De Chao, Highland Falls Paul L. Brooks Las Vegas Golf Club Madison E. Lealofi ’10 Michael E. Minden Bubba Gump Alexander R. DeChagas ’06 Four Seasons Hotel Joseph M. Hill ’19 Shauna B. Lederman ’01 Michael E. Minden Shrimp Co. Las Vegas Diamond Jewelers Monique Delphin ’16 Mark W. Hines ’86 Jenny Lee Hien Bui Todd C. Frank ’95 Hobak Korean BBQ Nicholas Lee Jared D. Mintz ’02 Judy G. Burl Kismat Dhanoa ’14 Garron Freddie Ashley E. Hoban Lee Canyon Ski Resort Susana L. James A. Busser Sabrina Diab-Doubrava Miramontes ’10 Kenneth ’72 and Hofbrauhaus Las Vegas Juan M. Leonis ’11 Dave Busshart Douglas D. DiMartin Patricia Free Larry Moldt Michael J. Hogan ’03 Gregory ’11 and Michael S. Carder Discovery Children’s Freed’s Bakery Mon Ami Gabi Museum Howl at the Moon - Victoroa Levitan ’12 Jolanda M. Carlvin ’10 Madalyn I. Freeman ’14 Jacob D. Montoya ’08 Robert B. Douglas ’15 Hollywood Zhen Li ’18 Rosemary J. Casey Rebecca A. Brett Hughett ’03 Eileen A. Moore Gregory L. Dowell ’97 Friedman ’07 Xiaojun Liang ’01 Margene Hurst ’16 Alexandra and Stephanie E. Moore ’17 Hyatt Place Las Vegas Joseph Liebman Simone Moran Elizabeth M. Ibarra ’15 Kevin A. Lim ’16 Morgans Jewelers Meadows Mall Jessica L. Impallaria Robert ’10 and Holly ’99 Lindsay Timothy P. How can I give? In-N-Out Little Blue Box Morrissey ’86 Whether it’s contributing to the College of Hospitality Fund for iNtegrity+ Anthony J. Llanos ’97 Peter C. Morrow Excellence, Hospitality Hall, or student scholarships, there are Roy M. Ishkanian ’84 Vincent R. Lombardi ’83 Lynn Mosier numerous ways to support the Harrah College of Hospitality. Tsveta M. Ivanova ’18 To learn more about available giving opportunities, and to Adam ’00 and Jill A. Moss ’02 Matthew P. Jalbert ’16 explore the option that is right for you, contact Marian Alper at Alicia Lopez Mr. Chimney Cricket Maria January [email protected] or (702) 895-2819. Alvin C. Lopez ’18 Zackery T. Chitra R. Jayanathan ’90 Caitlyn and Mumbower ’14 Joshua A. Jensen Fernando Lopez Judy A. Nagai Shuai Jiang ’13 Alexsander P. Love ’18 Rachel A. Neale ’18 Nathaniel R. Jiron ’04 LRG LLC Lawrence H. Catch Las Vegas Jim Fuchs Megan E. Drum ’07 Matthew R. Johnson ’14 Jun Guang Lu ’13 Nethercott ’99 Cavaricci’s Salon Gabi Coffee & Bakery Drybar Brian M. Jones ’12, ’14 Mark S. Lucas ’78 Margaret A. CDS Consulting Gregory J. Gale ’84 Neuman ’06 Carl Dudzinski Jeffrey R. Jones ’89 Phillip A. Luchetta ’00 Harold S. Channell ’86 Gameworks Ruth J. Nguyen ’17 Erin C. Dustin ’00 Marcie Jordan LUSH Rebels Forever is an inclusive membership program for alumni, without the membership Justin I. Chatov ’98 Ashley Gamez David ’80 and Eric Dutt Hyoung Jin Jun ’97 Natasha M. Mack ’12 Melissa Nightingale Shaodi Chen ’18 Edward M. Garcia dues. Every graduate of UNLV is now a Rebels Forever member. The UNLV Alumni Brian E. Dyke ’98 Alexander G. Kadota ’07 Stephanie M. Maes ’10 Jennifer M. Nitta ’18 Diana P. Garden Farms Association is happy to welcome each graduate into this new designation as alumni. No Chen-Condron ’00 Eataly - Monzo Foundation Celeste E. Kamai ’17 Kevin D. Mahoney ’82 Nothing Bundt Cakes Resturant Michael W. Chesley ’88 Madeline G. Marlene N. Kanehailua Jesse A. Mancha ’06 Suzanne M. Nunez ’08 matter where you are in the world, you are a Rebel! Echo & Rig Butcher Gassmann ’18 Andrew Kao ’12 Isabel Marcus Bernard Chiang ’17 and Steakhouse Benjamin P. Nunley ’93 Gen Korean BBQ House Colleen Kelii Marriott Las Vegas Chimera Golf Club Daniel P. Egly ’11 Holly O’Brien This program promotes inclusivity and philanthropy to each and every graduate of the Daniel L. Giraldo ’01 Paul E. Kelly ’69 Samantha Marshall ’13 Evelyn Oceguera ’18 Sarah P. Chung ’18 Eiffel Tower and Tracee Nalawak ’02 university. Your alumni association is committed to supporting all alumni, and to fostering a Restaurant Kendra Scott LLC William A. Matuk ’84 Mark Olegario ’07 Christian Dior Linda Givens Boutique Paris Peggy Eichman Lisa Kimelheim ’96 Barent ’99 and Audrey Michael A. Oliver ’02 vibrant, lasting relationship between you and UNLV for life. Golden Tiki C. McCool Circus Circus Las Vegas Eric Eisenberg ’95 James L. Kirk ’05 Ono Sushi Jaime Gomez Debra McCracken Clayton J. Clancy Elation LV Sander P. Kleijn ’15 Sabrina S. Orque ’02 Steven D. Gordon ’77 Thomas E. McGough ’15 UNLV.EDU/REBELSFOREVER Tim Clark Krista L. England ’15 Michael B. Klein ’08 Robert M. Ortiz ’97 Grape Street Wine Bar Brent A. McRae ’87 Araceli Cleto ’15 Jeffrey M. Engleberg ’02 Stephanie A. Kloss ’00 Carly S. Growdon ’11 John H. Cline ’73 Stephen E. Falk ’95 Yesenia Colon ’18 GYC Vegas - Marvel Ramona K. Farley ’92 Avengers Station We strive to ensure the accuracy of this listing, which includes donors who Bradley A. Conklin ’10 Annmarie Feiler Guy Fieri’s Vegas made a gift to the Harrah Hospitality College during the 2018-2019 fiscal year. Kathleen M. Aaron J. Fein ’87 Kitchen Bar Note: This list is not inclusive of all UNLV giving, and giving levels may represent part of a larger pledge. If you see a discrepancy, please contact Marian Alper at Constantino ’10 Xinyue Guo ’18 Louis M. Fiorentino ’07 [email protected] or at 702-895-2819. REBELS FOREVER 56 SPRING 2020 SPRING 2020 57 GIVING BACK

Jennifer L. Oshiro Rivers ’05, ’08 Gregory L. Schall ’86 Target The hospitality Joseph K. Otto Jessica Schauble Michael Testagrossa Paleo Angel LLC Kourtney C. Scherrer ’18 The Blue Martini We would like to acknowledge George J. Palumbo ’71 Benjamin J. Scheuring ’15 The Retreat on Charleston Peak the members of the Elizabeth Paoki Alan Schlossberg The Signature at MGM Grand UNLV Harrah College industry is Eui J. Park ’96 Suzanne A. Schnell ’04 Bruce and Sherri Theriault of Hospitality Alumni Board: Soyoung Park Christine H. Schwab Jesse P. Thornock Gordon Parker ’01 Timothy Self Marcus W. Threats ’87 Kimberly A. Peccole ’92 Sephora Las Vegas Richard Tippets PRESIDENT Luis M. Pereira-Velasquez ’17 Town Square Lacie S. Toranzo ’11 growing. John D. Pettei ’05 Serene, a Vegas Resort Totally Tiffany Nails Charles Beris ’13 MS Michael J. Pezo ’05 Conrad O. Serrano ’96 Tranquility Ranch Equine PGA Golf Management Program Settebello Pizzaria Assisted Therapy, LLC VICE PRESIDENT Pinot’s Palette Shaq’s Big Chicken Trend Nation Shouldn’t you? Patrik Balint ’14 MS/MBA Marie Pius Yunyue Shang ’16 Trufusion - Summerlin Plaza Hotel and Casino Alyssa G. Shipley ’95 Andrew J. Trupia ’18 SECRETARY Danielle R. Plummer ’95 Landon T. Shores ’13 Polydefkis Tsakonas ’18 Arthur S. Plunkett ’94 Ayaz A. Siddiki ’93 Catherine A. Tucciarone ’02 Andrew Jordan Fischette ’10 Pole Position Raceway Jeffrey D. Simons ’87 Brooke N. Tuerke ’18 Xian T. Pomare ’12 Amar Singh John D. Turner TREASURER Kathleen ’99 and Michel Pontius Lawrence L. Sitney Ryan B. Tuttle ’84 and Tracy Lawyer Kelly Messina ’90 Pour Coffee House Skinny Fats Twinkle Toast LLC Jennifer E. Powers ‘04 SLS Las Vegas Todd A. Uglow BOARD MEMBERS PR Plus - Topgolf Graham Smith UNLV PGM Program Christopher M. Proctor ’92 Jonathan A. Smith ’08 Marcus Threats ’87 ’99 MBA UNLV Women’s Golf Team ProSource Patrick Smith ’11 Michael A. Vakneen ’07 Jennifer Oshiro Rivers ’05 ’08 M.Ed. Max S. Puffer ’95 Kyle D. Smolenyak ’06 Reginald Snow Charles ’16 and Stacey ’90 and Timothy Purcell Kyung Jae Valentine Charles Valentine ’16 MHA Mora V. Snyder ’02 Abby J. Quinn ’12 Florence L. Vallen Joseph C. Sobaski ’12 Eric Eisenberg ’95 Erika S. Quispe ’01 Jerome J. Vallen SOLV HR LLC Devan Jean P. Racho ’18 Carl van der Merwe Andrew Kao ’12 SoulCycle Vegas Angela Ramsey and Courtnee K. Vanord ’12 Grant Evenson Southwest Airlines Andrew Insigne ’11 Vegas Golden Knights Randon C Photography Spanish Trail Golf & Vegas Indoor Skydiving Jack Effel ’14 MHA Rebecca Ray Country Club Vegenation Tim C. Rea Robert M. Spraggs ’02 Karen Achatz ’99 Vida L. Vicuna Red Lobster Stallion Mountain Golf Club Jane I. Villafuerte ’18 Shauna Lederman ’01 Gabrielle Reisler Chris K. Stanley ’89 Geneveve L. Vistan ’09 Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel Barbara A. Stannius ’92 Celine Endy ’18 Jean M. Vock Rob Resnick Paul O. Steen ’81 Vons Rhodes Ranch Golf Club Michael R. Steinberg ’95 EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS Sheila M. Walker ’99 Amanda E. Ricchetti ’09 Stephano’s Gyros David Wargacki Tyra Bell-Holland ’94 Robert R. Ristau ’17 Marc Stewart Monnie Warren Cynthia and Reid Rivelli Stokes Wagner ALC Sydney Woo ’99 Jill Weigel Alexander Rivera ’95 Allison F. Stone ’11 Andrew M. Weintraub ’15 Kevin Sexton ’92 Jerry L. Robinson ’83 Robert ’77 and Susan Stone Stephanie Whalen ’08 Paul F. Robinson Christine H. Stone-Stolpe ’94 Adam Gordon ’04 Lauren E. Wier ’11 Patricia M. Rosales Ari ’93 and Gita Stotland Peter A. Wier Advance your career with flexible programs for working professionals. Frank E. Rosaschi ’79 Nicholas M. Strohecker ’03 Wildhorse Golf Club PJ Rosendahl Style Democracy Nancy Wipf As the nation’s leader in hospitality education, The UNLV Harrah College Jason S. Roth ’08 Christopher ’02 and Amy Sugden Marion ’00 and Thomas R. Ruetten of Hospitality created the Sands Center for Professional Development Joyce Sullivan Brian R. Wiseman Sierra W. Sammons ’13 William T. Sullivan ’87 Marina B. Wobeck ’04 so you can grow your career without putting your life on hold. Eloisa E. Sanchez ’18 Super Summer Theater Nancy E. Wonisch Jennifer A. Sanchez ’86 • Custom certificate programs Alice Swift ’16 Sydney K. Woo ’99 Christine M. Sanders ’13 Tara M. Tallman ’10 Whitney Wright ’13 • Flexible in-person and online instruction Jason A. Sandler ’12 Edward Tang Zaragoza Jewelers Alicia Sandoval • Industry workshops and tours Matthew T. Tankersley ’17 Zen Massage Craig M. Schaefer ’95 Zuma Las Vegas Find out what’s right for you and your organization: Call 702.895.4124 58 SPRING 2020 or email [email protected] or visit unlv.edu/sandscenter HARRAH COLLEGE Non Profit Org. OF HOSPITALITY U.S. Postage PAID University of Nevada, Las Vegas Las Vegas, NV Box 456013 Permit No. 200 4505 S. Maryland Parkway Las Vegas, NV 89154-6013

GUY FIERI CLASSof1990

BOLD CURIOUS ORIGINAL A REBEL

unlv.edu/hospitality

60 SPRING 2020