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News Archives

2011

Eta Sigma Delta inducts new members

Cleveland Browns cornerback Sheldon Brown, '02, visits HRSM

Charleston Fashion Week provides more than glitz and glam

USC students compete in SIFE USA Regional

Center for Retailing receives $160,000 gift from the Prosper Foundation

McCutchen House patio expansion planned for summer 2011 prevents Garden Grille from opening

Members of Student Chapter of PCMA (Professional Convention Management Association) at USC attend the PCMA Southeast Quarterly Education Program

Viva Las Vegas!  The Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Holds 55th Annual Convening Leaders Meeting i January 9-12, 2011

SPTE Masters program selected to compete in 2011 National Sports Forum Case Cup

College of HRSM welcomes new SPTE chair

SPTE student, Merrifield, drives in Retail student, Wingo, to win 2010 College World Series!

Technology Support and Training Management Program gets new name

HRTM students land in paradise for May session

HRSM Hosts Successful Career Fair

School of HRTM Inducts 23 Members into Eta Sigma Delta

2010

SPTE Students and Faculty Attend the National Sport Forum

AEG Worldwide Selects SPTE Into Facilities Leadership Program

Dunham named HOPSports Inc. Marketing and Communications Coordinator

Anthony Morgan, a 1990 HRTM alumnus, receives his Ed.D

College of Hospitality, Retail, & Sport Management Gets New Dean

The College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management Announces New Endowed Chair

SPTE Alumna Natalie Dunn ('97) Named New Executive Director/CEO for YWCA Salem, Oregon

2009

The College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management Announces New Endowed Chair

College of Hospitality, Retail, & Sport Management Gets New Dean

SPTE Alumna Natalie Dunn ('97) Named New Executive Director/CEO for YWCA Salem, Oregon

Fashion Board Sponsors Fashion Week at USC

HRSM Teacher of the Year and Researcher of the Year are Named

Retailing in the News — Visual Merchanding Takes It to the Streets, Fashion Board Reaches New Level, Perry Lancaster Talks Fashion

HRTM welcomed John Merkin, with InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG), as Guest Lecturer in Hotel Management and Lodging

SPTE Hosts Baltimore Raven's Owner Steve Bisciotti as Guest Lecturer in the Thomas H. Regan Executive Sport Seminar

2008

University of South Carolina Hosts Honor Flight
Festival for WW II Vets

Club Management alumni give great advice to students at a recent visit back to USC

HRSM Students Continue to Give Back to the Community

HRTM Major Receives Award

HRSM Students Go to Washington for Fire Safety

TSTM Recognized with Prestigious Pillar Award

HRTM Students – Olympics Bound!

Business Education Graduate Student, Dylan Curtis, Completes San Diego Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon

Three Sport & Entertainment Management Graduates Among First to Graduate "With Distinction"

TSTM Professor Ann Swafford Retires from the University

SPTE Students Head for the FLAME

Retailing Student Wins First Place at Columbia Museum of Art "Recycled Runway"

Junior SPTE Student, Adam Shuman, Awarded Magellan Scholar Undergraduate Research Grant

College of HRSM Teacher of the Year and Researcher of the Year are Named

NASCAR driver, Eric McClure, to honor SPTE alum, Laura Chichester

College of HRSM Graduate Wins Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship

Top Executive of IMG Sports and Entertainment Gave Regan Sport Lecture

2007

HRTM Faculty Rank Among the Top Scholars in Tourism Research

The Prosper Foundation and BIGresearch continue to support the University of South Carolina and the Department of Retailing

JDA Software Gift valued at $1,005,000

“Giving Back” Team Serves Up a Thanksgiving Meal

Columbia Insurance Technology Consortium, USC Offer
Technology Camp, Free Laptops To High-Achieving High School Students

School of HRTM recognizes students who have received the following scholarships and awards for 2007-08

Sloan Center Hosted “Tourism as a Catalyst for Economic Development”

Retail Student, Hadley Britt, Designs a Career

College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management Welcomes New Deans


Eta Sigma Delta Inducts New Members

Eta Sigma Delta, founded in 1978, is an international honor society for students in the hospitality and tourism field that recognizes them for their academic achievement, service, professionalism, and leadership skills. The University of South Carolina chapter was founded in 1984 and this year we inducted 4 graduate students and 26 students to the society.

In order to be inducted into Eta Sigma Delta, inductees must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 after having completed 50% of their coursework required to graduate. The McCutchen House, our historic dining lab, hosted the Spring 2011 Induction Ceremony and luncheon for the new members of Eta Sigma Delta on Friday, March 25th, 2011. The ceremony was conducted by the current officers and two alumni members: Kaylee Crane, Michael Price, Quentin McElveen, Amy Jackson, and Rebecca Mangum. The guest speaker was Mr. Sean McLaughlin, GM of the Capital City Club who talked about the five points of honor required for Eta Sigma Delta members- excellence, leadership, creativity, service, and ethics.

Eta Sigma Delta members participate in one major service activity and various activities throughout the year. On April 13th, 2011 Eta Sigma Delta members participated in the South Carolina Hospitality Association’s 7th Annual Hospitality Day at the State House. This event is held for the principal lobbyists for the hospitality industry to entertain and talk with elected officials from the state of South Carolina. Our volunteers helped with set up, registration, and security during this event. There were more than 15 members of ESD that participated in the event. Also, on various days throughout both semesters, our members volunteered to help with dinner events at the dining lab on campus to help raise money for club activities, for example going to the New York hotel show.

The officer election was held on Friday, April 15th and the new officers were elected for the 2011-2012 academic year. The leadership for ESD is: President- Haley Deffenbaugh, Co-Vice Presidents- Benjamin Carmichael and Katie Edwards, Secretary- Laura Barthelmay, and Treasurer- Emily Thilo. The faculty advisor for next year will continue to be Dr. Robin DiPietro. Eta Sigma Delta society at USC is compromised of approximately 60 students and serves as a means of uniting outstanding students for campus activities, fundraisers, and volunteer programs. Congratulations to our new inductees!

Please contact Dr. Robin DiPietro at 803-777-2600 or in room 108A COL if you are interested in more information on Eta Sigma Delta.

Congratulations to this year's inductees:

Graduate Students
Kazuki Kawashima
Bradley O'Donnell
Lauren Rose
Jennifer Wiley

Undergraduate Students
Natasha McClellan 
Mallory Young
Ashley Evans
Courtney Capers 
Taylor Underwood
Katie Edwards
Jessica Deacy 
Olivia Jones
Virginia Bader
Haley Deffenbaugh 
Jill Seufer 
Alexis Lee
Katharine Gausmann
Victoria Moon
Emily Thilo 
Robert Weslowski
Benjamin Carmichael 
Candice Huth
Laura Barthelmay
Gresi Irdam
Hannah Costanza 
Virginia Probst 
Hannah Whitehead  
Dominic McNear
Fiona Whalen
Meredyth Boaz


Cleveland Browns Cornerback Sheldon Brown, '02, visits HRSM

Cleveland Browns Cornerback Sheldon Brown, '02, visits HRSM class"Everything is a business."

That was one of the key points that 10-year NFL veteran and South Carolina Gamecock alumni Sheldon Brown mentioned in his speech to current HRSM students and faculty.

Brown, who graduated from the university in 2002 with a degree in Sport and Entertainment Management, stressed the importance of having a financial plan upon graduating college. Brown also spoke of the importance of money management after graduating from college.

With millions of American's drowning in credit card, student loan, and mortgage debts, Brown was keen on planning not just for today but also for many years down the road.

Sheldon spoke about how many young people tend to make careless and foolish mistakes when they are in college and how sometimes these mistakes haunt them for years to come.

Even with the seemingly endless amount of money that NFL players make, Brown made clear that nobody, not even NFL millionaires are free to spend money as they wish.

In a staggering statistic, according to Sports Illustrated, by the time they have been retired for two years, 78% of former NFL players have gone bankrupt or are under financial stress because of joblessness or divorce.

With statistics like this it isn't surprising that even multimillionaires such as Sheldon Brown are very careful spending what they might not have in a few years.

Brown emphasized using the skills that they are learning both in school and out of school to "make it" in the real world. Sheldon praised the students in the auditorium for their hard work and dedication, citing you've made it this far, that's impressive.

"Ten years ago he was sitting in my classroom; today I'm sitting in his, said Tina Weaver, Director of Alumni Relations and Sheldon's Business Communications teacher in 2001," "It's so exciting to have our alumni come back and talk with our HRSM students. They genuinely care about helping our students succeed. They are proud of their college!"


Charleston Fashion Week provides more than glitz and glam
--Dateline Carolina 2011 Charleston Fashion Week

Retailing grad students attended Charleston Fashion Week (CFW) March 22-26. (L to R) Felicia Keels, Grace Mozingo, Marisa Tassello, Katie Gould, and RETL faculty member, Karen Lear.

Retailing student Laura Fielden was selected to model. For photos of Laura, click here.

Three Retailing students (Katie Fields, Toni Parsons, and Brittany Tanner) volunteered as backstage assistants for the CFW fashion shows.

Retailing Alum Kody Mangum attended and is currently manager with Copper Penny in Charleston.  

For more on Charleston Fashion Week, click here.


USC students compete in SIFE USA Regional

SIFEOn Monday, March 21, 2011, University of South Carolina Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) competed in the SIFE USA Regional Competition held in Charlotte, NC. USC SIFE faced twenty-seven SIFE teams from other universities around the Southeast. Seven members, Marisa Tassello (President), Sean Frady (Vice President), Alexa Jacobs (Secretary), Matthew Tassello, Drake Orman, Grace Mozingo, and Cynthia Amick, led by faculty advisor, Dr. Marianne Bickle, represented USC’s team.

USC SIFE, which was dormant since 2008, reactivated in Fall 2010. After extensive research, planning, and dedication from team members, USC SIFE completed three service learning projects, which consisted of two short presentations accompanied by brochures and a lecture series, based on the theme, “Financial Planning and Responsibility.” At the SIFE USA Regional Competition, the team was required to present a 24-minute multimedia presentation documenting their service projects and their impact on the campus and local community.

The full-day Regional Competition in Charlotte did not end with the team’s presentation, however. The competition, which was sponsored by Lowe’s Home Improvement, also hosted a job fair with representatives from companies such as AFLAC, Nabisco, Walgreens, Finish Line, Entenmann’s, and Wells Fargo, just to name a few. The team spent the afternoon learning about SIFE sponsors, networks, going on interviews, and viewing other SIFE teams’ presentations. After the job fair and morning presentations, a Lowe’s hosted a luncheon that provided the team with the chance to sit and speak in-depth with job fair representatives and members from other SIFE teams. The competition commenced with several speeches from the sponsors and an awards ceremony.

The USC SIFE team may not have walked away with an award this year, but they still left feeling like winners. “The SIFE USA Regional Competition was filled with a wonderful positive energy! As rookies, we learned a great deal from this experience and are confident that we will return with what it takes to win next year,” Marisa Tassello (President).

After the experience of the SIFE USA Regional Competition in Charlotte, the USC SIFE team has gained insight to their strengths and weaknesses. They will spend the remainder of Spring semester focusing on improvements and plans for the 2011-2012 school year.


Center for Retailing Receives $160,000 Gift from the Prosper Foundation
On March 1, 2011, the Center for Retailing and its Director, Marianne Bickle were the recipient of a $160,000 gift-in-kind from the Prosper Foundation. Dr. Bickle is very appreciative to the Prosper Foundation for its generosity and support of the Center. The gift-in-kind provides The Center for Retailing with monthly nationwide forecasting data, media data, and quarterly data on the China market. Dr. Bickle and the Center for Retailing will use the data for writing white papers, research briefs, seminars, and demonstrations. Beginning May 4, 2011 monthly seminars will be given based on the data. Contact Marianne Bickle for information regarding the seminars at bickle@hrsm.sc.edu Located in Worthington, Ohio, The Prosper Foundation "provides a forum for consumers to anonymously communicate their opinions or concerns on economic and retail expenditure issues in order to influence retail and manufacturing executives and public policy decision makers."


McCutchen House patio expansion planned for summer 2011 prevents Garden Grille from opening
A planned expansion of the McCutchen House patio and pressing space needs in McCutchen's food preparation areas and instructional kitchen will prevent the reopening of the popular Garden Grille this summer.

For several summers, the Garden Grille served burgers, chicken sandwiches, and other grilled lunch items. But a critical need to offer additional courses in the School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Management has placed kitchen and food preparation space at a premium.

The planned renovation and expansion of the patio area will provide a larger venue for catering and event courses as well as a new catering space for University special events.

"We want to thank all of our summer patrons for their support during the past few years," said Neal Smoak, director of McCutchen House. "We hope that everyone will continue to support our students during the fall and spring semesters for our student-operated McCutchen House restaurant."


PCMA Student Chapter at USC goes to SoutheastQuarterly Education ProgramMembers of Student Chapter of PCMA (Professional Convention Management Association) at USC attend the PCMA Southeast Quarterly Education Program
Nine members from the Student Chapter of PCMA (Professional Convention Management Association) at USC traveled to Atlanta, GA, prior to Spring Break to attend the PCMA Southeast Quarterly Education Program. The topic of discussion was Dynamic Women in Leadership; Influence for Successful Professionals, which the members site as a wonderful learning experience. The panel of women featured an educator from Georgia State University, Debby Canon; the National Vice President of Strategic Governance and Corporate Affairs from the American Cancer Society, Susan Herrington; the General Manager of the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, Erica Quals; and even the 2011 Chair for the PCMA Board of Directors, Susan Katz.

The education incorporated a luncheon and networking opportunities. Afterwards, the group toured the Georgia World Congress Center, where the thousands of square feet of exhibition space amazed the students. In addition to the exhibition halls, ballrooms and theatre, the students were welcomed by the kind staff of the Georgia World Congress Center. USC PCMA's Member of the Month, Lindsay Barber, reflected on this experience stating, "One thing I have learned through the PCMA Southeast Educational conference is that it is truly all about who you know and the connections you make with colleagues, employees, and even clients in the event management business." USC PCMA plans to attend the next quarterly education after finals.

More reflections from Lindsay:
"Not only did I step out of my comfort zone when it came to networking with people in the industry at the conference in Atlanta, but I didn't hesitate to ask questions to the panel as well as follow up with those I received business cards from via email about potential internships. That same strategy came to my benefit when I used a woman who I had assisted a few health care conventions as a reference and asked if she had any recommendations of companies that may offer an internship in my field. Just the other day I got an email from All Occasions Event Rental offering me a paid summer internship in their marketing department in Cincinnati, OH."


Viva Las Vegas!  The Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Holds 55th Annual Convening Leaders Meeting January 9-12, 2011 PCMA Katherine Gausmann at the Professional Convention Management Associaton Meeting, January 2011

(left to right: Sabrina Delk and Katharine Gausmann pose with a showgirl in Las Vegas, Nevada,
at the PCMA Conference in January.
)

Hospitality Management students from the PCMA Student Chapter at the University of South Carolina, Sabrina Delk and Katharine Gausmann, along with Associate Dean Sheryl Kline, attended this year's PCMA Meeting which was held in Las Vegas, Nevada, January 9-12, 2011.  Attendees stayed at the MGM Grand while the conference took place at the MGM Grand Conference Center.  Over 60 education sessions varying from “New Trends in Today’s Convention Centers” to “Improve Exhibitor Satisfaction: Packaging and Pricing” were the highlights for students.  Additionally, networking occasions were a key component to this convention.  Attendees were able to interact with over 3,000 meeting professionals and suppliers of the convention industry by partaking in luncheons and evening networking sessions; one night was even pool-side at the Venetian.  Keynote speakers Renee West, President and COO of Excalibur and Luxor, and Tony Hsieh, Zappos CEO, graced the stage at the General Sessions.  While not in sessions, attendees visited the Las Vegas strip’s many restaurants and shows.


SPTE Masters program selected to compete in 2011 National Sports Forum Case Cup
The Master's program in Sport and Entertainment Management (MSEM) at the University of South Carolina was selected as one of ten programs nationwide to compete in the 2011 National Sports Forum (NSF) Case Cup. The NSF Case Cup competition was created in 2007 as a unique opportunity for sport management MBA and masters program students from 10 institutions to compete in a multidisciplinary case study competition using skills learned in their program's curricula. This is the second time in five years that the MSEM program at USC was selected to participate in the competition. The event will be held in conjunction with the 2011 National Sports Forum conference and trade show in Louisville, KY from January 28 to February 2, 2011. The National Sports Forum is the nation's largest gathering of top team sports marketing, sales, business development, promotions, and event entertainment executives from throughout the broad spectrum of teams and leagues in North America.

The NSF Case Cup will be judged by a panel of sports industry professionals, topical experts, and academic professors. To determine the overall winner, students are judged based on the quality and content of their case response, overall presentation ability, and strength of their responses in the question and answer period. Once the case is released, the USC team will have exactly 24 hours to study the case and prepare a 20 minute presentation of their conclusions.


HRTM students land in paradise for May session
For ten university students in the School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Management, it's the ultimate classroom with a view — the beautiful island of Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. More..
Check out graduate student Katherine Magner's blog about this course. More...


College of HRSM welcomes new SPTE chair
Andy Gillentine has recently been appointed as Professor and Chair of the Sport and Entertainment program and the University of South Carolina. Prior to this appointment, he held positions as the Associate Dean, Associate Professor and Director of the Sport Administration Programs at the University of Miami (2002-2010) and as Graduate Program Director at Mississippi State University (1995-2002).

In April of 2009, he received the Sport Management Outstanding Achievement Award from the National Association of Sport and Physical Education. Additionally, he served as athletic director and coach for more than 15 years and is nationally recognized for his expertise in sport management curriculum and program development. Presently, he serves as a Commissioner of the Council of Sport Management Accreditation (COSMA).

Prior to this appointment, Gillentine served as Chair of a joint task force of NASPE/NASSM charged with formalizing the curricular standards required for accreditation. In 2007, he was appointed to serve as a board member of the Miami Dade Sports Commission, which is charged with developing and expanding the presence of the sport industry in Miami Dade County and South Florida. Previously he served on the Sport Management Program Review Council Executive Board and as Chair of the National Sport Management Council. His research interests are sport marketing, professional development, and management issues in sport.

Dr. Gillentine has conducted research projects for numerous sport organizations that have resulted in over fifty publications and over 100 national and international presentations. In 2007 he was appointed as a Research Fellow of the Research Consortium of the AAHPERD, the largest professional organization of sport and physical educators in the US. His textbook, Foundations of Sport Management, co-edited with Brian Crow, is widely used in Sport Management Programs throughout the country and is currently in its second edition.

Dr. Gillentine earned his bachelor’s degree in History from Oklahoma State University, his Master’s degree in Educational Administration from Northeastern Oklahoma State University and his PhD from the University of Southern Mississippi.


SPTE student, Merrifield, drives in Retail student, Wingo, to win 2010 College World Series!
The College of HRSM is very proud of the following students who helped bring the 2010 NCAA National Baseball Championship home:
 
Jackie Bradley, Jr., MVP- RETL Nolan Belcher - SPTE
Greg Harrison - SPTE
Colby Holmes - SPTE
Anthony Iacomini - SPTE
Jeffrey Jones - RETL
Whit Merrifield - SPTE
Steven Neff - RETL
John Taylor - SPTE
Christian Walker - SPTE
Scott Wingo - RETL
Tyler Webb - SPTE

HRSM students played a major role in the success of the team including the CWS MVP and centerfielder Jackie Bradley, Jr., and starters Whit Merrifield, Christian Walker, Scott Wingo and relief pitchers Steven Neff, John Taylor, and Tyler Webb. Way to go! Click for story.


Technology Support and Training Management Program
Gets New Name

Technology Support and Training Management Program at the University of South Carolina has changed its name to Integrated Information Technology (iIT). The name change is effective immediately.

“The new name expresses what we do much better than the old name,” said Dr. Bob Brookshire, the Program’s Director. “Our curriculum and our faculty’s research integrate the disciplines of database management, network management, web development, and information technology training. The old name really reflected only part of what our program is about.”

Information technology industry executives support the name change. “I strongly endorse the name change,” said Andy Bernardin, Client Director with IBM. “I have found the faculty and staff to be in tune with the day-to-day information technology needs business have in South Carolina. They have been proactive in helping to meet those needs by producing quality students and programs.”

Steve Wiggins, chief information officer for BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, agrees. “We have witnessed the transformation of this program to one of the leading university programs in producing the type of candidates that are most needed by IT businesses,” he said. “This will bring the appropriate level of attention to this program through the clarity established between the name and the focus of the program.”

The name change was approved by the State of South Carolina’s Commission on Higher Education at its March 24 meeting.

For more information on the Integrated Information Technology Program, contact Bob Brookshire at brookshire@sc.edu or visit the website at http://iit.sc.edu.


HRSM Hosts Successful Career Fair

The College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management (HRSM) hosted its second annual college-wide Career Fair from 8:30 AM until 5:00 PM at the Koger Center in downtown Columbia on Monday, March 1. The event kicked off the night before the fair at the Courtyard Marriott downtown where HRSM students were invited to network with participating company representatives at a Sunday evening reception.

The fair on Monday began with a welcome from College of HRSM Dean Brian Mihalik to the participating company representatives and students. There were 32 companies participating in the event, including ARAMARK, Bill Owings Custom Clothing, Bonefish Grill, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Restaurants, Inc., Carolinas Chapter CMAA, Chevy Chase Club, Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC), Darden Restaurants, Fowler Hospitality, LLC, Greenville Drive, Hyatt Regency Atlanta, IMIC Hotels, JMH Hotels, Jason’s Deli, Johnson and Wales University, Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation, Marriott International, Naman Hotels, Pyramid Hotel Group, Radisson Hotel and Conference Center, Russell & Jeffcoat Realtors, Sea Mist Resort, Sherwin-Williams, Sodexo, Sysco Columbia, Target, The Breakers-Palm Beach, The Merchants Company, US Foodservice, VC3, Waffle House, and Wild Dunes Resort.

After the Dean’s welcome, students were invited to network with company representatives at booths set up throughout the Koger Center beginning at 10:00 AM. Approximately 250 students attended the event. In addition, students in Dr. Sandy Strick’s HRTM 564 Advanced Meeting Management class served as volunteer event coordinators for the Career Fair.

“A requirement of the HRTM 564 class is to volunteer for events to get hands-on experience that complements in-class instruction,” said Tina Weaver, Director of Alumni and coordinator of the HRSM Career Fair. “I was delighted that so many of Dr. Strick’s students chose to work at the Career Fair and opening reception. They came to the event with knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm and made an immediate contribution,” she said.

Among the students attending the fair was Jon Melsom, a senior Hospitality Management major, who was searching for a summer internship. Melsom has worked in restaurants for several years and was searching for opportunities to intern with a hotel or resort company. “I’ve worked on the restaurant side for a while, but I would like to get involved on the hotel or resort side of HRTM,” he said.

Tori Moon, a junior with a concentration in Meeting and Event Management, came to the Career Fair looking for assistance in beginning her internship and job search. With so many students interested in event management, Moon recognizes the value of completing an internship and gaining related experience before she graduates. She said, however, that she wasn’t sure where to start looking for opportunities so she decided to attend the Career Fair to speak with representatives to discuss and explore options on getting started in the industry.

Collin Crick, Director of Recruitment and coordinator of the HRSM 301 Professional Development Seminar Course for the college, also spoke with Moon about the possibility of earning her Master’s degree in International Hospitality and Tourism Management through the college. He said that having an advanced degree can often put you ahead of other applicants when you’re applying for jobs. “The HRSM career fair is a significant step in the professional development of our graduates,” Crick said. “Whether you are a freshmen learning about companies, or a graduating senior conducting interviews, everyone benefits from the experience.”

Some former HRSM students, like Amanda Fozo from the Chevy Chase Club in Maryland, have come full circle with the HRSM Career Fair. Last Spring, Fozo was a student in Weaver’s HRSM 301 class and, as such, was required to attend last year’s career fair. This year, as an alumna, she came back to recruit. “As the alumni director, I hope that our graduates will continue to stay connected to the college by attending career fairs, networking nights, and homecoming gatherings,” said Weaver. “We want them to continue to be a part of the HRSM Family!”


School of HRTM Inducts 23 Members into Eta Sigma Delta
Eta Sigma Delta Members after Induction Ceremony, McCutchen House, School of HRTM. University of South CarolinaThe Spring 2010 induction ceremony for new Eta Sigma Delta inductees was held at the McCutchen House on Friday, February 26th, 2010.  Twenty-three new members were inducted into the honor society for the School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Management.  These students represent hospitality and  tourism management majors with a 3.5 or higher and at least 50% completion of the degree program.  The ceremony was conducted by the current officers of Eta Sigma Delta: Mary Lanham, Katie Tomich, Caroline Ward, and Rachel McDuffie.  The general manager of the Columbia Marriott, Jason Reader, provided the keynote address to the new members.  The chapter at Carolina was started by Charlie Boswell in 1984.  


SPTE Students and Faculty Attend the National Sport ForumLuke Reasor, Catherine Luthren, Baltimore Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti, Andy Sipes and Cecily Faenza enjoy the banquet at the National Sport Forum in Baltimore.
The National Sports Forum is one of the top sport industry conferences in the world. Representatives from hundreds of sport and entertainment properties attend each year eager to share and learn valuable information to utilize in their business practices. The Forum is structured to provide attendees numerous opportunities to not only listen to formal presentations but to also attend smaller break-out sessions. It provides an opportunity for attendees from divergent sport entities to expand their horizons beyond their sport, league, or conference.

The 2010 Forum was hosted by the National Football League’s Baltimore Ravens in Baltimore, MD, on February 1-3. One component of the 2010 Forum was a graduate student Case Cup Competition that attracted students from 10 of the top sport management programs in the United States. Students working in groups of four were provided a case and given 24 hours to research potential solutions, prepare appropriate written documents and present their findings to a panel of judges. The University of South Carolina’s team included Catherine Luthren, Cecily Faenza, Luke Reasor, Andy Sipes and faculty advisor Dr. Mark Nagel. The 2010 Case Cup topic was “Childhood Obesity an Epidemic:  Reducing Childhood Obesity in America by 2015”. Arizona State University and George Washington University reached the finals with Georgia Washington University being awarded the 2010 Case Cup Championship.Andy Sipes, Luke Reasor and Cecily Faenza prepare for the Case Cup Competition

The 2010 Forum attracted 700 attendees from various aspects of the sport and entertainment industry. Some of the featured speakers included: Steve Bisciotti, owner of the Baltimore Ravens; Andy MacPhail, president of the Baltimore Orioles; Kenneth Feld, chairman & CEO of Feld Entertainment; Cal Ripken, Jr., CEO of Ripken Baseball; Kevin Plank, chairman & CEO of Under Armour; and Ted Leonsis, owner of the Washington Capitals.

Attendees of the forum were provided behind-the-scene tours of Baltimore’s Oriole Park at Camden Yard and Ravens Stadium. Upon completion of the tour of Ravens Stadium, attendees enjoyed the Budweiser Gala, the signature event of the Forum.

"The conference included many super panel discussions with leading industry experts on topics within the sports and entertainment industry," commented graduate student Catherine Luthren. "These discussions gave us insight into the many different facets of the industry and the numerous opportunities there are within the fields. "

Participating in the National Sports Forum and the Case Cup competition was a valuable learning and networking opportunity. Luke Reasor commented that it was “one of the most valuable experiences of his career.

Dr. Nagel said, "The Department of Sport and Entertainment Management is already making plans to attend the 2011 Forum in Louisville, KY,: said Dr. Nagel.


AEG Worldwide Selects SPTE Into Facilities Leadership Program
The Department of Sport and Entertainment Management has been selected as one of only three programs in the world from which AEG Worldwide will accept participants into their Facilities Leadership Program. This is a six month management training program to prepare future leaders for AEG properties around the world. AEG owns, operates, or books some of the world’s premiere venues including the Staples Center (Los Angeles), O2 Arena (London), Acer Arena (Sydney), Shanghai Arena, and the Time Warner Cable Arena (Charlotte). Additionally, AEG Live is one of the world’s largest concert promoters and other divisions of AEG own L.A. Live, the Los Angeles Galaxy (MLS), Los Angeles Kings (NHL), European football clubs, and tennis, cycling, and lacrosse properties. For additional information on AEG, click here.

"This is a real tribute to the fantastic job that our alumni and interns have done when working with AEG properties and to the continuing job that our faculty and staff do in preparing our students for success," said Interim Chair of SPTE, Frank Roach.


Dunham named HOPSports Inc. Marketing and Communications Coordinator
Valencia, CA – Crystal Dunham has joined HOPSports, Inc., an award winning company dedicated to fighting childhood obesity in our nation’s schools and youth serving agencies.  HOPSports delivers 21st century physical education by merging media with digital technology and celebrity trainers, offering cutting-edge training concepts that are interspersed with health, career and other ancillary educational content. Each of the exercises is presented by professional athletes, their leagues, Olympians and Hollywood celebrities chosen for their ability to capture the target youth audience’s rapt attention.

“We’re so excited to have Crystal join HOPSports to expand our growing relationship with the NFL both locally and nationally and with other sports leagues and teams.  Also her relationship with various Charlotte foundations and youth serving organizations is invaluable as her role will be to assist HOPSports to further promote health and wellness locally and across the nation.  Her passion and years of dedication to community service are in line with HOPSports’ mission as it applies to health and wellness,” said Cindy Sisson, President of HOPSports, Inc.

Dunham has spent the past eleven years working in the community relations department for the NFL Carolina Panthers. She was instrumental in assisting the team in developing its fitness programs to help schools achieve their physical education goals. Additionally, Dunham oversaw the launch of the nation’s first mobile HOPSports Training System in tandem with the Panthers Fit Blitz Tour and Be Active North Carolina.  The mobile van travels throughout Charlotte-Mecklenburg Middle Schools utilizing HOPSports to get kids fit. She also oversaw the production of the team’s signature fitness program which has reached more than 50,000 elementary students in North and South Carolina.

During her eleven years with the Carolina Panthers, she served as the liaison between the team and the community helping to build and sustain valuable relationships and partnerships with schools as well as non-profit and community-based organizations. As the community relations manager, Dunham coordinated and implemented more than 20 community projects, developed NFL community programs on the local level, and organized sponsored special events.
“I am excited to be joining an award-winning company whose mission is to improve the health and activity levels of our youth,” said Dunham. “HOPSports provides kids with the means to do physical education in a fun and engaging environment. I am looking forward to contributing to the growth of the organization.”

In her role as Marketing and Communications Coordinator, Dunham’s responsibilities will be threefold: (1) develop and implement a plan to further engage professional sports leagues, teams and players; (2) plan and implement strategies to create awareness of HOPSports and its products and (3) assist in securing sponsorships and grants for schools and community based organizations to purchase HOPSports.

About HOPSports
HOPSports is a multi-media instructional tool for physical education teachers and fitness instructors, delivered through DVR technology. The multi-screen format provides fitness lesson plans that meet state and national standards while integrating nutrition, fun facts, anatomy instruction and educational messaging in a fun and exciting environment. HOPSports delivery mechanism is simple to use and is a great tool for K-12 physical educators and fitness instructors to teach along with HOPSports’ host of exciting trainers. In its first 36 months, HOPSports’ reach has gone from zero to approximately 1.5M youth served on a weekly basis across the U.S. and beyond. Currently in approximately 500 sites across 38 states, HOPSports projects a growth of 1,000 additional sites by December 2010, anticipating an estimated 4M YOUTH served per week. For more information about the HOPSports Training System and the schools and community based organizations nationwide utilizing this revolutionary fitness system, visit www.hopsports.com.


Anthony Morgan, a 1990 HRTM alumnus, receives his Ed.D
Anthony Morgan, “90” graduate of the Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Administration, USC received his degree, doctor of education (Ed.D) in Educational Leadership and Change from Fielding Graduate University in Santa Barbara, California on February 17, 2009. In addition, Dr. Morgan received a concentration in Community College Leadership.

Currently, Dr. Morgan is an adjunct professor with Kaplan University, where he teaches online early childhood courses. In addition, Anthony is an actor with the University of South Carolina, School of Medicine Standardized Patient Program and the University of South Carolina National Advocacy Center.

Dr. Morgan is a former adjunct professor at the University of South Carolina– Upstate Teacher Education Program on the USC Sumter Campus, former instructor in the Education, Child and Family Studies Department at Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina , and Basic Skills Education Program (BSEP) at the United Sates Army Training Center at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Anthony holds South Carolina teaching certifications in the areas of Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education. Dr. Morgan is a former teacher in Richland School District One and Fairfield School District.

Currently, Dr. Morgan resides in Columbia, SC where he is an advocate for the improvement of the quality of life and education for children and families.

 

College of Hospitality, Retail, & Sport Management Gets New DeanNew College of HRSM Dean, Brian Mihalik

Dr. Brian J. Mihalik, associate dean and professor at the Graduate School for Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, has been named dean of the University of South Carolina’s College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management.

Mihalik was selected after a national search from among four finalists who visited the campus this spring and met with faculty, staff and students.

He will begin August 15.

University President Harris Pastides said Mihalik’s extensive experience in teaching, research and higher-education administration will make him a valuable member of his administrative team and a vibrant leader for the college, which has an enrollment of 1,800 students and 36 faculty members.

“His academic background in government, public relations and business, combined with his administrative and teaching experience, will bring a valuable perspective to the college and to my administration,” Pastides said. “His strong leadership qualities and his experience in public higher education made him a very strong candidate who captured the confidence of faculty, staff and students when he visited the university.”

Mihalik said he was looking forward to leading a college that boasts diverse programs and alumni who have risen to top positions in their respective fields.

“We in the College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management are critical partners in moving South Carolina to the next level in the global economy,” Mihalik said. “Our college impacts the largest sectors that drive the economy in South Carolina. Hospitality, tourism, retail, sport and entertainment, and technology support and training make up a large portion of the state’s economy. Working with the faculty, administration, students, staff, alumni, industry partners and friends of the university, we will carve a path to excellence through our joint efforts.”

Mihalik earned his bachelor’s degree in business with an emphasis on transportation from Syracuse University, where he also earned a pair of master’s degrees, one in instructional communication, media production and administration, and one in local government administration and management. He earned his doctoral degree in corporate public relations from Temple University.

After holding tenured faculty and administrative posts at Clemson, Oklahoma State and SUNY Brockport universities, he joined Virginia Tech in 1999 as department head and professor in the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management. Since 2006, he has served as associate dean of the graduate school, overseeing education and the development of new graduate programs and working closely with eight college deans.

Mihalik will succeed Dr. Sheryl Kline, who has been interim dean since August 2007.


The College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management Announces New Endowed Chair

Simon HudsonThe College of HRSM is pleased to announce it has a new endowed chair for the Center of Economic Excellence in Tourism and Economic Development, Dr. Simon Hudson.

The Centers of Economic Excellence (http://www.sccoee.org/)  are part of the State of South Carolina’s “commitment to building a vibrant knowledge based economy.'  This center is supported with $2 million of state funding and is a demonstration of the state’s commitment to hospitality and tourism research and outreach.

Dr Simon Hudson is a Professor in Tourism and Marketing at the University of Calgary. He has held previous academic positions at two universities in England, and has worked as a visiting professor in the U.S., Austria, Switzerland, Spain, Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia. Prior to working in academia, Dr. Hudson spent several years working in the tourism industry in Europe. He received his undergraduate degree in England and his MBA from California.

Dr Hudson teaches at both undergraduate and MBA levels, and his specialty areas are tourism marketing, international tourism, marketing communications, and services marketing. He has been nominated twice for Student Union teaching excellence awards.

Dr Hudson is an active researcher and has won a number of grants and research awards. He has nearly 40 refereed journal articles and over 20 book chapters to his name, and has also written four books. His first, written in 2000, called Snow Business, was the first book to study the international ski industry, and Sports and Adventure Tourism was published by Haworth in 2003. His third book, Marketing for Tourism and Hospitality: A Canadian Perspective, has sold over 5,000 copies, and is now in the second edition. His most recent book, called Tourism and Hospitality Marketing: A Global Perspective was published by Sage in 2008. The marketing of tourism is the focus of his research, and he is known worldwide for his work on ski tourism and film tourism. The focus of his next book is golf tourism.

Outside of the University, Dr Hudson sits on a number of editorial boards for journals and is also an active member of the community participating on many committees and industry boards at a volunteer level. He is regularly interviewed by the media to discuss his research. He has been invited over 25 times to international conferences as a keynote speaker and has the reputation for being an inspiring and dynamic presenter.


Natalie Dunn, SPTE Alumna '97, named executive director/ceo or ymca salem oregonSPTE Alumna Natalie Dunn ('97) Named New Executive Director/CEO for YWCA Salem, Oregon
The Board of Directors of the YWCA Salem is pleased to announce the new Executive Director/CEO for YWCA Salem. Natalie Dunn is a native of Augusta, Georgia graduating from Silver Bluff High School in 1989. She received a Bachelor of Science in History from Charleston Southern University in 1993. She was a member of both the volleyball and women’s golf teams. She also obtained a Bachelor of Science from the University of South Carolina in Sport Administration in 1997.

During her nine year career with Wachovia Bank, Natalie was promoted numerous times in the Retail Service division including a relocation to Salem, Oregon in November 2004.  While at Wachovia, Natalie coordinated various site initiatives around leadership development, and diversity. She began her involvement with the YWCA after attending a cultural diversity conference in 2005.  She was elected to the Board of Directors in December 2007.  She served as co-chair on the Development Committee and was also a member of the Publicity and Finance committees.

Natalie is an avid golfer and loves spending time with her dogs A.J. and Tiger.  

Natalie’s first day was June 1, 2009.

YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.


Fashion Board Sponsors Fashion Week at USC

The Fashion Board at USC sponsored its first ever fashion week April 13-18, and it was a huge success. The week began with Denim Day, and members collected gently worn jeans to stock the clothing closet for foster children at the SC Department of Social Services. They also enjoyed watching “The Devil Wears Prada” at movie night and a style workshop at the School of Music. The highlight of the week was a fashion show at 701 Whaley that featured USC designers Emily Smith, Brad Boltinghouse, and Emma Mahon and spring collections from Britton’s, LaRoque, M Boutique, Mary, and Belladea. Over 200 people turned out for the event. Marquis Bias, Vice President of Programming and coordinator of the event said, “This fashion show was a dream of mine since last year. It was a lot of work by all of the members but it was well worth it. I can’t wait until next year.” For photos, click here.

The Fashion Board at USC is open to any full-time student at USC. There are currently over 100 members, and meetings are held every other Wednesday night. The fall membership drive will begin in August. For additional details, contact Dr. Sallie Boggs, advisor, at 777-3653 or sboggs@mailbox.sc.edu.


HRSM Teacher of the Year and Researcher of the Year are Named

The Harry E. and Carmen S. Varney Distinguished Teacher of the Year and the Patricia G. Moody Researcher of the Year recipients were announced Tuesday, March 31 at a recognition ceremony at Rutledge Chapel. Dr. John Grady was named Teacher of the Year and Dr. Jason Carpenter was given the Researcher of the Year award.

Dr. Grady is an assistant professor in the Department of Sport and Entertainment Management. He holds both his Ph.D. and J.D. degrees from Florida State University. He teaches classes in Business Law and Risk Management as well as Sport Law and Risk and Security Management. His research interests focus primarily on the legal aspects of the business of sport. Dr. Grady has mentored many students conducting undergraduate research, including one of the first Magellan Scholars at USC. Dr. Grady received the Patricia G. Moody Researcher of the Year in 2008.

Dr. Jason Carpenter is an assistant professor in the Department of Retailing. He holds his Ph.D. from the University of Tennessee. Dr. Carpenter serves as Curriculum Coordinator for the Department of Retailing. His research interests include consumer shopping value, retail format choice, consumer credit issues, and teaching methods in retailing. He has successfully secured research funding internal and external sources, and has published articles in a variety of refereed journals. He has also held professional positions in retail management, merchandising, and product development.


Taking It to the Streets

Students in Dr. Sallie Boggs’ Visual Merchandising course, RETL 365, are taking their displays to the streets of the Devine Street corridor, the Vista, and Five Points. Instead of creating their displays in the coliseum window, students are applying the concepts they are learning in class in the real world. Displays can be spotted at Mary, 2 Gg’s, Hiller Hardware, Oops!, Good for the Sole, Blue Tile Skate Shop, and Three Dog Bakery in Five Points, and Pink Sorbet on Devine Street. The merchants have welcomed the students into their stores and have enjoyed seeing what they have created. “It’s a great partnership. The merchants get some help with their windows and the students receive a wonderful opportunity to apply what they learn in the real world of retailing. Nothing beats that,” said Boggs. This on-site learning laboratory will continue in the fall, and merchants are excited about continuing the partnership. “The students have done great jobs,” said Kelly Tabor, owner of Good for the Sole, “I am eager to work with them again next semester.”


Fashion Board Reaches New Levels

The Fashion Board at USC has reached new levels of membership and activity this year. The board now boasts of over 100 members and has been busy during the year with a variety of activities. In the fall, members raised over $500.00 in one day to support Lee Denim Day and breast cancer research. They have also partnered with the Foster Care Review Board at The South Carolina Department of Social services to provide display fixtures for their clothing closet. Members have enjoyed hearing from fashion interns at their program meetings, as well as a sewing instructor from Creative Sewing. Designer profiles have also been presented at meetings. In conjunction with Creative Sewing, a sewing class has been offered to members at a discount, and a crochet guild has been organized to have board members teach other members to crochet. The guild meets before each regular meeting. In the fall, a t-shirt design contest was held, and the winning entry was placed on Fashion Board t-shirts for members. In addition, a Fashion Board logo was developed. Also in the fall, the Board members enjoyed a “Devine Walk,” in which Devine Street store owners opened their businesses after hours and spoke to members about fashion and retailing. Participating merchants also offered students discounts on merchandise. The big event for the spring is Fashion Week, to be held April 13-17th. A week of activities is planned to increase awareness of Fashion Board and the importance of the fashion industry. On Monday, members will launch a denim drive on Greene street, encouraging students to donate gently worn jeans to the clothing closet at DSS. Tuesday is “Fashion at the Movies,” in which a double feature will be shown to members and guests. Wednesday is Publicity Day. Members will have a “Fashion Ration” bake sale at the coliseum and also sell Fashion Board koozies. Thursday is the big event of the week – a fashion show and gala at Gallery 701 on Whaley Street. Local merchants and students will present new looks for spring, and Fashion Board awards will be presented. Friday will feature a stylist makeover session at the School of Music. Special Fashion Week t-shirts have been designed for members to wear during the week.

Fashion Board is open to members of any major on campus, and the fall membership drive will begin in August 2009. For additional information, contact Dr. Sallie Boggs, Fashion Board advisor, at 777-3653 or sboggs@mailbox.sc.edu.


Perry Lancaster Talks Fashion

Perry Lancaster, co-owner of Britton’s on Devine Street, has been in the fashion business for over thirty years. He is a master in understanding the intricacies of the fashion business and is eager to share his knowledge with others. Each semester, students in Dr. Sallie Boggs’ RETL 268 – Principles of Fashion Merchandising, are lucky enough to hear Perry talk about his experience in fashion retailing. He is always a favorite, bringing in lots of examples of lines and explaining the story behind each one. Perry has been a supporter of the fashion program and Department of Retailing for many years, and we greatly appreciate his time and effort in helping our students.


John Merkin of International Hotel Group is guest lecturer for HRTM on February 12

HRTM welcomed John Merkin, with InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG), as Guest Llecturer in Hotel Management and Lodging

The School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management welcomed John Merkin, with InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG), as a guest lecturer in hotel management and lodging on February 12.

Merkin is the senior vice president of brand management of the Holiday Inn Brands division of IHG and is overseeing the franchise’s branding makeover. His lecture, “Change is Inn,” was the message that was delivered to Holiday Inn franchise owners about branding changes they will undergo.

Professor Brumby McLeod and adjunct instructor Kiran Shah organized the lecture that not only offered a fresh perspective on the hospitality industry but also helped students by balancing their education with professional exposure. As a vice president of branding, Merkin does not work directly with guest services but still plays an important role in hospitality, which was a point that Dr. McLeod and Shah wanted to emphasize.

“It keeps a live update on what’s really going on in the industry and opens students’ eyes to it,” said Dr. McLeod of the guest lecture.

Instructor Shah, who is the local operator of a family- owned Holiday Inn, has partnered with Dr. McLeod to develop a regular lecture series for the lodging students in the School of HRTM in order to continue students’ exposure to industry professionals as well as to build more bridges between the department and the industry.


NFL Baltimore Raven's owner Steve Bisciotti is a guest lecturer at the Thomas H. Regan Executive Sport Seminar hosted by Sport and Entertainment Management at USC

SPTE Hosts Baltimore Raven's Owner Steve Bisciotti as Guest Lecturer in the Thomas H. Regan Executive Sport Seminar

The Department of Sport and Entertainment Management hosted Steve Bisciotti, owner of the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens, as the guest lecturer in the Thomas H. Regan Executive Sport Seminar on February 26.

The lecture was held in Belk Auditorium and drew a large audience of SPTE students and faculty, local professionals and some of Bisciotti’s own employees.

Bisciotti’s lecture, “My Life and the NFL,” discussed his professional journey and the decisions that led to his current success. He emphasized the importance of good character, manners, work ethic and education as well as the importance of financial stability. He also encouraged students to pursue their ideas and passions, even if it means starting a business themselves.

After the speech, students asked Bisciotti questions, most of which pertained to the economy and job market. Bisciotti told students that in order to get a job, they should volunteer so that their resumes reflect strong character.

Dr. Regan, who organizes the lecture series, hopes that speakers like Bisciotti will add value to the educational experience of SPTE students by giving them insight into the professional world. In addition, he hopes that the lecture series will bring exposure to the department as well as build relationships between the College of HRSM and industry professionals.

Bisciotti’s lecture was the fourth in the Regan seminar. Previous guests include NASCAR’s Jim Hunter, Venue Management Association (Australia) John Benett, and IMG’s George Pyne.


University of South Carolina Hosts Honor Flight
Festival for WW II Vets

The Festival Planning and Management class of the University of South Carolina’s School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management is raising $50,000 in order to sponsor and send approximately 100 of South Carolina’s World War II veterans to see the national monument in Washington, DC this fall.

The class of 53 students is working on behalf of Bill Dukes, chairman of the Honor Flight South Carolina program. Bill Dukes started the program over two years ago. Since then, the program has sent one successful flight (approximately 90 veterans) to see the national monument in Washington. Two more flights are scheduled to go this spring.

Veterans don’t have to pay a thing for the trip. Honor Flight SC provides participants with an all-inclusive, memorable, one-day trip. The cost? Roughly $50,000. That’s why the students of USC have decided to help raise funds. They would like to sponsor one full flight of nearly 100 veterans on behalf of the college.

In addition to collecting monetary contributions, students are also holding an Honor Flight Festival on April 25, 2008. This festival will be held at 701 Whaley Street in Columbia. The festival will include a race/walk in the morning and live music, a silent auction, shag lessons, food and fun later in the evening. All proceeds will go directly to the Honor Flight SC program.

For complete information on supporting the Honor Flight, visit www.HonorFlightSC.com. For ticket information regarding the Honor Flight Festival, email michellemoshinskie@yahoo.com. For a registration form for the race/walk, click here.

Your Donation to Honor Flight SC:
All contributions made to Honor Flight SC are processed through the South Carolina Guard Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization, and are tax deductible. Donations can be made out to and sent to the South Carolina Guard Foundation, Inc. at 551 Granby Lane, Columbia, SC 29201. Make sure to write “USCHonor Flight SC” on the memo line of your check.


Club Management alumni give great advice to students at a recent visit back to USCClub Management alumni give great advice to students at a recent visit back to USC -- group photo

Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Management students had a chance to network and learn when six USC alumni returned to speak to Dr. Cathy Gustafson’s club management classes on Monday, February 12.

The alumni, all of whom were in Dr. Gustafson’s classes during their time at USC, held a panel discussion with the students. The speakers, Kelley Stefka, Patrick DeLozier, Laura O’Keef, Mark Lockridge, Alan Schultz and Rebecca Glazer, work at various golf and country clubs and were more than happy to share their stories. The alumni introduced themselves and spoke briefly about their professional careers before opening the floor for questions from the students.

Students were most interested in getting advice about the interview and job search process, and the speakers had plenty of tips. Patrick DeLozier, a 2001 graduate, talked about the importance of a good first impression and advised students to dress to impress. Laura O’Keef, who graduated in 2003, told students to set themselves apart from other candidates by bringing something extra to the table.

The alumni also spoke to students about how life would change once they enter the workforce. Alan Schultz, a 2006 graduate, told students to prepare for much more personal responsibility as they start their careers. Mark Lockridge, who graduated in 2003, discussed the importance of one’s reputation and reminded students that they are, in a sense, always being interviewed.

Kelly Stefka, who graduated in 2000, and Rebecca Glazer, who graduated in 2008, told students to make sure that they liked their working environment. Glazer discussed how different people fit with different clubs, and Stefka talked about the importance of maintaining a life outside of work.

All the alumni agreed that Dr. Gustafson’s help and guidance were critical to their professional careers, especially in terms of networking and preparing them for the tasks ahead.

Students responded well to the speakers and were able to use the discussion to look ahead and consider the possibility of working in club management in the future.


HRSM Students Continue to Give Back to the Community

HRSM 301

When students complete the HRSM 301 junior level development course, they may not only find they acquired course knowledge and new skills, but they have also discovered a sense of greater accomplishment through the immense satisfaction of giving back to the community.

Each semester, students in HRSM 301 are divided into teams and are given $100 seed money to plan and implement a fundraising event for the charity of their choice. In the process, students learn good communication skills, time management, and group consensus building as well as learning how to manage any conflicts that may arise. The seven sections of the fall 2008 HRSM classes raised a total of $52,130.00 for 21 different charities throughout the Midlands. Some of the charities who benefitted are Ronald McDonald House, Special Olympics, SisterCare, PETS, Inc. and more.

One of the teams decided to help Special Olympics by planning and hosting a successful Pancake Breakfast. Asked about the purpose of their project, the group said, “We wanted to lead by example. Part of our goal was to not only raise the money, but to set a good example for other members of the community and fellow classmates. Our purpose was to fulfill our civic duties and provide financial aid to the Special Olympics. At the end of the day we felt good about helping out our great community.”

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” – Winston Churchill

“You must give some time to your fellow men. Even if it's a little thing, do something for others - something for which you get no pay but the privilege of doing it.” – Albert Schweitzer


Lisa Lebowitz

HRTM Major Receives Award

HRTM major, Lisa Lebovitz was awarded a scholarship to attend the National Tourism Association’s annual meeting, held in Pittsburgh, PA. The scholarship was given by Tourism Cares, the official philanthropic organization of NTA. Lisa was among the 21 students from around the US recognized for academic achievement. The students participated in roundtable discussions and had the opportunity to network with industry executives.


Caroline Pinson and Rebecca Benton in Washington DC to lobby for fire safety legislationRetail majors Caroline Pinson (Gamma Phi Beta) and Rebecca Benton (Tri Delt) joined other USC students in Washington, DC last week to lobby for fire safety legislation. The legislation, the Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, if passed, will provide tax credits for fire safety measures on
college campuses. The group met with members of the South Carolina Congressional Delegation. Read article...

Frank Roach, interim department chair of Sport and Entertainment Management, is featured in the June/July issue of Facility Manager, the official publication of The International Association of Assembly Managers, Inc. The story, The Pro’s Prof, highlights Roach’s professional and academic career and commitment to the department and university.
Click here for the story…


TSTM Recognized with Prestigious Pillar Award
The  Technology Support and Training Management (TSTM) program has been recognized by  the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce with the prestigious Palmetto Pillar Award in Technology Education. The award celebrates excellence and innovation and recognizes a company or organization for the application or development of innovative technology-based projects and programs that impact education in the Midlands community.

This award honored the community service projects performed by the TSTM students as part of their class work.  One highlight of these activates is the TSTM 564 Project Management class that helped to design and install a computer network in the Fast Forward Community Technology Center.

Fast Forward is a nonprofit community agency that provides computer training to veterans, displaced workers, and the homeless as well as computer literacy training for preschool and elementary school students.


HRTM Students – Olympics Bound!
In just a month, the world will turn its attention to Beijing and the 2008 Olympics. While most of us will view the pageantry and competition from our living rooms, five talented HRTM students will be there, experiencing first hand a multicultural hospitality experience of Western and Asian influence with the Olympics Games as the backdrop.

These students have been selected by Don Pritchard, CEO of Global Food Service Solutions, to staff the Johnson and Johnson Hospitality Suites, located on the Olympic Green. Guests of the suites will be VIPs who are conducting Global Business programs throughout Asia and the world markets. Pritchard met the students at the Master’s Golf Tournament in Augusta, GA, where they were staffing similar hospitality suites.

“I am very impressed with the quality of the students that I have met over the years (from USC HRTM).” “The staff will work hard! They will average 12 – 14 hour shifts for nearly 20 days straight and will most likely love every minute of it!"


Business Education Graduate Student, Dylan Curtis, Completes San Diego Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon
Business Education graduate student Dylan Curtis and his wife Karin completed the San Diego Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon on Sunday, June 1.   They were participating in the “Team in Training” program to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.  Team in Training participants raised over $12.9 million. Dylan and Karin finished the 26.2 mile run in 5 hours, 33 minutes, 52 seconds.  Dylan is pursuing his Master of Arts in Teaching degree and expects to graduate in May 2009.  In addition to his graduate work and marathon training, Dylan is a research and teaching assistant for Dr. Tena Crews and a soccer coach with Columbia United FC.  Click here to see photos of Dylan and Karin’s trip to San Diego and click here to see a video of the duo crossing the finish line.


Three Sport and Entertainment Management Graduates Among First at USC to Graduate "With Distinction"

SPTE Graduates "With Distinction" photo

Congratulations to (pictured left to right)
Michael Morehead, Dr. John Grady, Eric Rogers,and Dustin Doyle


TSTM Professor Ann Swafford Retires from the University
Former students and colleagues reminisce

Anne Swafford receives a retirement gift from Interim Dean Sheryl KlineAnn Swafford will retire from the Technology Support and Training Management Program at the end of the 2007-2008 school year, after 40 years with the University of South Carolina. Teaching was the only profession Mrs. Swafford ever considered. She began preparing for a teaching career in her childhood by tutoring her younger twin sisters.. She began her official teaching career at the University of South Carolina – Lancaster, where she taught for five years before moving to the main campus in Columbia. Personal highlights of her time at USC include authoring textbooks, traveling overseas, and speaking at numerous national conferences. Mrs. Swafford is also proud of the many students she has taught who have become teachers themselves. Mrs. Swafford made a major contribution in training secondary business teachers. As dedicated word processors were replaced by personal computers and software, she helped train high school teachers on the latest software. This enabled them to incorporate the software into their classrooms.

Mrs. Swafford said, “While I have had the opportunity to work with many wonderful colleagues and administrators, my memories of the students will always be my favorites. I have observed young students coming into the program and watched them as they matured into professional, career-oriented graduates. Through the association with alumni, I have reveled in the successes our graduates have made as they have progressed in their careers.”

When asked what advice she would give to her current and past students she said, “It’s a small world and that translates into all areas including IT areas. When you finish school, your work is just beginning. You should work hard, have a good work ethic, maintain a professional attitude, and keep your skills current.”

After retirement, Mrs. Swafford will continue writing textbooks. She is looking forward to spending more time with family and friends. She will also keep busy with her favorite hobbies, including reading and playing the piano. She and her husband plan to travel more and enjoy their lake house.

“While I will miss working with students and colleagues every day, I have enjoyed my years at the University,” says Mrs. Swafford.

Former student, Jane Crosby, said, "I agree that she is truly going to be missed by all! She has made a difference in so many lives and it will be hard for anybody to relate as well to the students as she does. Even though I have been in the workforce for many years, my education gave me the confidence and skills to go along with my experience to make it possible for me to excel in my career. One semester, Dr. Moody was giving her “hand holding” speech to me, and Mrs. Swafford just dropped by to ask a question. She ended up holding the other hand. If it hadn’t been for the encouragement and support afforded me, I don’t think Iwould have persevered. I am so glad I did.”

“I would have to say she was the best professor I had at Carolina…not only a wonderful teacher, but an absolutely incredible person as well! I feel very fortunate to be able to call Mrs. Swafford a dear friend,” said another former student, Kenley Dick.


SPTE Students Head for the FLAME

Students from the Sport and Entertainment Management program at USC have been selected to attend the 15th annual FLAME (Finding Leaders Among Minorities Everywhere) program that will be held at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colo., June 4 – 7. The program, hosted by the US Olympic Committee (USOC) and its sponsors, empowers minority students through a dynamic, educational program that is packed with leadership enhancement opportunities. In the spirit of Olympic Ideals of persistence, vision, focus, discipline and commitment, the program is designed to inspire students to cultivate their desire to succeed and rise above the ordinary. Students selected for the program are Adam Berrios, Ebony Sullivan and Brandon W. Ruth. During the four day program, students will reside in the Olympic Training Center dormitory, eat at the Athlete Dining Hall and have the opportunity to interact with Olympians, Paralympians and hopefuls daily. Motivational presentations, seminars, networking and workshops are on the itinerary for the conference. Selection to the program was based on demonstrated leadership through academics, athletics and community involvement.


Retailing Student Wins First Place at Columbia Museum of Art "Recycled Runway"

Norma Jean Lippman in her winning fashion design

Norma Jeanne Lippman, a student in Sallie Bogg’s RETL 268 class, entered the Columbia Museum of Art "recycled" fashion show, entitled Runaway Runway. The fashion show, sponsored by the Columbia Museum of Art, charged designers to create one or more designs using recycled materials. Out of nearly 80 designers,Norma Jeane Lippman won first place. She designed a dress and matching hat out of used fabric, water bottle wrappers, and coffee filters.

 

 

 

 

 


Junior SPTE Student, Adam Shuman, Awarded Magellan Scholar Undergraduate Research Grant

Adam Shuman, a junior Sport and Entertainment Management major, has been awarded a Magellan Scholar undergraduate research grant for the next academic year. His research project is entitled "Risk Management Perceptions of Collegiate Sport Venue Managers in Accommodating Spectators with Disabilities." The faculty mentor for his project is Dr. John Grady, an assistant professor in the SPTE department. Adam is the son of Al and Dana Shuman of Silver Spring, Maryland. He recently completed his practicum with the University of Central Florida Department of Athletics. Upon being named a Magellan Scholar, Adam said “This opportunity will allow me to explore the risk management issues in college sport venues, and with aspirations to work in college athletics, it will allow me to achieve my career goals.”


College of HRSM Teacher of the Year and Researcher of the Year are Named

The 2008 Teacher of the Year and Researcher of the Year awards were presented to the recipients at a special ceremony at McCutchen House. Surrounded by colleagues and students, Dr. John Grady and Dr. Betsy Bender were recognized for their outstanding achievements in research and teaching.

Dr. Betsey Bender receives Teacher of the Year awardDr. Bender received the Harry E. and Carmen S. Varney Distinguished Teacher of the Year Award that recognizes outstanding teaching excellence in the College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management. Nominations are made by current students and the recipient is selected by a committee of students and faculty. Dr. Bender is an associate professor in the School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Management. She teaches classes in hotel management to both graduate and undergraduate students.

Dr. John Grady receives researcher of the year award.Dr. Grady received the Patricia G. Moody Distinguished Researcher and Scholar of the Year Award that was established to encourage and recognize outstanding research achievements by faculty within the College. Dr. Grady is an assistant professor in the Department of Sport and Entertainment Management. He holds both a Ph.D. and J.D., and is an expert in sport law. He has distinguished himself as a student mentor having been the supervisor of note on four USC Magellan scholarship applications.


NASCAR driver, Eric McClure, to honor SPTE alum, Laura Chichester

NASCAR driver, Eric McClure, will run a special decal on the C-post of his #24 Hefty® brand Chevrolet (Nationwide Series) and his #37 Hefty® brand Impala SS (Sprint Cup Series) during Speedweeks at Daytona International Speedway, honoring Laura Chichester of Cornelius, North Carolina.  Chichester, who has been part of the NASCAR family since graduating from the University of South Carolina in 2001 with a degree in Sport and Entertainment Management, passed away on December 20, 2007 at the age of 28.  Chichester, an account executive at GMR Marketing in Charlotte, North Carolina, for Alltel® Racing, was close friends with Eric’s sister, Emily McClure, who coordinated the tribute with Front Row Motorsports and Chichester’s family. “Emily came to me over the holidays with the idea to run a decal,” McClure said, “and I thought the perfect way to honor Laura was on a race car since she worked in the industry.” “I’ll never forget meeting Laura.  She was on our flight to California last September and I remember introducing myself and saying ‘I’m really not that bad of a driver.’  She was dumbfounded at first; she didn’t know what to say, but then she began laughing hysterically.  I knew right then she was a laid-back person with a good sense of humor and from what Emily tells me, I was correct.  It’s an honor for us to do this. ”


College of HRSM Graduate Wins Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship

Samantha Martin, an August 2007 graduate of the College of HRSM’s School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Management, is a recipient of a Rotary International Ambassadorial Academic and Cultural Scholarship.

Samantha currently works as a study abroad advisor and program coordinator in International Education Programs at Jacksonville University. While an undergraduate, she was a peer advisor in the Study Abroad Office, a member of the Women’s Club Volleyball Team, the Shack Campus Ministry, and served as a conversation partner for the English Programs for Internationals, the intensive English language program on campus.  

She is interested in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution, so her year-long scholarship to the University of Ulster-Magee Campus in Londonberry, Northern Ireland will certainly help her realize these goals. “I am really looking forward to becoming a part of the community in Northern Ireland and understanding more about the different people, groups and history of the conflict as well as the new developments in the peace process,” commented Martin.  The Lake Murray-Irmo Rotary Club is the sponsor of her Academic Scholarship.
 
Five undergraduates from the University of South Carolina are recipients of this year’s Rotary International Ambassadorial Academic and Cultural Scholarships for study abroad.  Academic Year Scholarships provide nine (9) months of study abroad and are valued at $25,000 each. Cultural Scholarships make available three (3) months of study abroad and are valued at $12,500 each.
 
Rotary is the world's largest privately funded international scholarships program, and these scholarships further international understanding and friendly relations among people of different countries and geographical areas by encouraging person to person diplomacy. This year’s Rotary winners are all committed promoting to Rotary’s ideals of “Service Above Self” in Asia, Africa, and Europe.
 
Rotary candidates were supported by the University’s Office of Fellowships and Scholar Programs, established in 1994 to assist students for national fellowship competitions.  To learn more about national fellowships and competitions and view a complete list of the University’s Rotary Scholars, visit www.sc.edu/ofsp.


Top Executive of IMG Sports and Entertainment Gave Regan Sport Lecture

George Pyne, president of IMG Sports and Entertainment, gave the Thomas H. Regan Executive Sport Lecture on Tuesday, February 19 at 7:00 PM at the USC School of Law Auditorium. The lecture was free and open to the public. Mr. Pyne leads the IMG’s global sports and entertainment enterprises, spanning 30 countries and including the world’s pre-eminent clients and events in golf, tennis, fashion and entertainment along with consulting, licensing and the IMG Academies. As a member of IMG’s Board of Director’s Mr. Pyne also helps shape the company’s strategic initiatives.

IMG is the world’s premier and most diversified sports, entertainment and media company. Areas of expertise include: media production and distribution across multiple platforms, event creation, management and sponsorship sales, client representation and brand management, sponsorship and media consulting, global sponsorship and media sales, consumer products licensing and athlete training.


HRTM Faculty Rank Among the Top Scholars in Tourism Research

A recently published article “An Investigation of academic leadership in tourism research: 1985-2004” in Tourism Management 28 (2007), 476-490 identified three of the School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management (HRTM) faculty members in the top fifty of the most prolific scholars in the world.   The study provides a comprehensive investigation of academic leadership in tourism research using the quantity of articles published in eight major journals, including ANNALS of Tourism Research, Journal of Travel Research, and Tourism Management in the field between 1985 and 2004.  The faculty members and their rankings are: Dr. Muzzo Uysal, 4th; Dr. Ercan Sirakaya, 28th; and Dr. David Weaver, 44th.

Dr. Muzzo Uysal, Associate Dean of Research for the college, is a member of the International Academy for the Study of Tourism, the Academy of Leisure Sciences, and serves as co-editor of Tourism Analysis: an Interdisciplinary journal. In addition, he sits on the editorial boards of eight journals, including Journal of Travel Research, and Annals of Tourism Research as resource editor. Dr. Uysal, an internationally renowned scholar, has extensive experience in the travel and tourism field,  has authored or co-authored a significant number of articles in tourism, hospitality and recreation journals, proceedings, book chapters, and four monographs and one book relating to different aspects of tourism marketing, demand/supply interaction and international tourism.
Dr. Ercan (Sirakaya) Turk holds the title of Sloan Research Professor in the School of HRTM. He is the 2006-2007 recipient of US State Department’s prestigious Fulbright scholarship where he taught research tourism and conducted destination development and branding studies in Russia. His research interests include tourism policy and development through sustainable tourism, quantitative analysis in international tourism and marketing, and destination marketing and management.   Dr. Turk is the founding and current associate editor-in-chief for an online tourism research bulletin (e-Review of Tourism Research). He also serves on editorial boards of several major journals including Journal of Travel Research, Tourism Analysis, European Journal of Polical and Anatolia and is a field reviewer for numerous academic journals. He serves as a member in an international Think Tank group (BEST-EN) that deals with issues of sustainable tourism development issues in developing countries. 
Dr. David Weaver has authored or edited 10 books and written more than 70 refereed journal articles and book chapters, including numerous contributions to the top tier journals Annals of Tourism Research, Journal of Travel Research, and Tourism Management.  His textbooks, Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism, and his co-authored textbook Tourism Management, are widely used in many countries. Dr. Weaver is also the editor of the Encyclopedia of Ecotourism and sits on the editorial boards of eight academic journals. 

Dr. Weaver’s research is global in nature, and has included field studies in the Caribbean, Australia, Southeast Asia and the prairie provinces of Canada.  Consultancies for agencies such as PATA (Pacific Asia Tourism Association) and the World Tourism Organization have taken Dr. Weaver to destinations such as Russia, Thailand, Panama and Andorra to advise destination managers about implementing sustainable ecotourism models of development.  As a leading international scholar in the ecotourism field, Dr. Weaver has explored cutting edge issues such as the application of ecotourism to highly modified spaces and urban environments, its relationships to mass tourism, and the identification of ‘minimalist’ and ‘comprehensive’ dimensions.


The Prosper Foundation and BIGresearch continue to support the University of South Carolina and the Department of Retailing

The Prosper Foundation and BIGresearch continue to support the University of South Carolina and the Department of Retailing. The organization agreed to donate monthly databases of consumer panel data valued at $240,000 to the Department of Retailing. The databases include: the Simultaneous Media Usage Knowledgebase and Consumer Intentions and Actions Knowledgebase. University of South Carolina faculty and students may use the data to prepare white papers, research briefs, reports, press releases or seminar content which contains "SIMMTM" or "CIA" information. Relationships with organizations such as The Prosper Foundation and BIGresearch enable students in the department to better understand actual consumer behaviors and trends. The Department of Retailing and the University of South Carolina as a whole are grateful for continued support from The Prosper Foundation and BIGresearch.


JDA Software Gift valued at $1,005,000

JDA renewed software licenses valued at $1,005,000 to the Department of Retailing at the University of South Carolina. This ongoing relationship between USC and JDA has resulted in graduate students in the Master of Retailing Program being trained in sophisticated category management and space planning retail software. The students are highly competitive and sought after throughout the nation. Examples of software include: Space Planning Plus by Intactix, Floor Planning Plus by Intactix, and JDA logoEfficient Item Assortment by Intactix. The Department of Retailing and the University of South Carolina are very grateful for JDA’s continued support.


“Giving Back” Team Serves Up a Thanksgiving Meal

Giving Back Project -- Providence Home Over the past two years, students in HRSM 301 have provided needed assistance to many area non-profits through the “Giving Back” project. Students are placed in teams and given $100 as seed money for their project to benefit the charity of their choice. More than $40,000 has been raised for local charities by student teams since the inception of the project.

This semester, one team chose to help fund and serve a Thanksgiving dinner for the men of the Providence Home, a local home for men recovering from alcohol or substance abuse. The group wrote and distributed brochures, which were donated by Kinko’s, to help inform people about the Providence Home, as well as their needs.  Partners for the event included Subway, Outback Steakhouse and Kroger who provided the Thanksgiving meal of sandwiches, turkeys, green beans, macaroni, rice, gravy, and rolls. The partners also donated over $300 in men clothes (shoes, jeans, coats, shirts, etc.). Carrabba's Italian Grill, Outback Steakhouse, Hooters, and Chili's donated gift cards for a drawing, which raised $185.

"It was very fulfilling to see how we made a change for the Providence Home,” said Gina Robertson, a junior Fashion Merchandising major.

The Director of Providence Home, Ken Ritchie, was so impressed with the turnout and dinner he has decided to make the Thanksgiving dinner a new tradition at the Providence Home.

Overall the group raised an estimated $1,200 in food, clothes, brochures, and money. 


Columbia Insurance Technology Consortium, USC Offer
Technology Camp, Free Laptops To High-Achieving High School Students

High-achieving high school sophomores and juniors in the Columbia area will have the opportunity to develop their computer skills, learn about careers in information technology, and build their own laptop computer during the first High Performance Information Technology Camp, which will take place in February.

The camp, to be held at the University of South Carolina on three consecutive Saturdays beginning Feb. 2, 2008, is being offered jointly by the Columbia Insurance Technology Consortium (CITC) and the Technology Support and Training Management Program at USC’s College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management.

BlueCross Blue Shield of South Carolina, a founding member of CITC, is funding the February camp. There is no charge for attendees, but space is limited to approximately 15 high school students from Richland and Lexington counties. CITC and USC plan to make the camp a biannual event.

Students will receive training on computer architecture, application development, large- scale computing and other concepts. Follow-up sessions are planned, including one on installing game-development systems, to enhance development and retention. Students will build their own laptop, which they will take home following the camp. They will also tour university facilities, attend a USC basketball game, and spend time with university professors.

Goals of the camp include developing students’ interest in information technology, teaching key IT concepts, and allowing students to familiarize themselves with a university campus.

“One of the goals of the CITC is to draw more students to IT curriculums, and this camp is a fantastic start,” said Pete Ashi, chief operations officer of TM Floyd & Company and chairman of CITC. “Columbia has a concentration of high-tech companies, particularly in the insurance sector, so it is imperative that more efforts of this nature materialize.”

CITC, which includes insurance and technology companies, addresses issues that impact the insurance industry. Founding members are S.C. BlueCross BlueShield, Colonial Supplemental Life, CGI, Fiserv, Pequot Ventures and TM Floyd & Company.

“BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina has more than 2,000 employees and contractors working in information technology, and we want to clarify for high school students the opportunities that exist in the IT field,” said Lonnie Emard, director of staff resource management for BlueCross. “According to the Computing Research Association, the number of college freshmen indicating they would major in computer science fell 60 percent from 2000 to 2004, even though demand for employees in IT is soaring.”

To be considered for the camp, students must attend a high school in Richland or Lexington counties, submit an application and have a letter of reference from a teacher. Students also must submit a 500-word essay explaining, “In what ways do you think the technology industry will grow in the next 5-10 years, and what will that mean for a career in IT?”

“We are creating this camp to excite high school students about computer technology majors in college that lead to rewarding careers,” said Bob Brookshire, director of USC’s Technology Support and Training Management Program. “Employers anticipate a huge need for new technology professionals as their current employees retire.”

Applications are available for download at www.hrsm.sc.edu. The deadline to apply is Dec. 14, 2007. A panel of USC faculty and BlueCross staff will review the applications. Anyone seeking more information may contact Karen Kemp at 803-777-6608 or kemp@mailbox.sc.edu.

About CITC

The purpose of the Columbia Insurance Technology Consortium is to establish a formal structure for insurance technology and insurance services organizations to collaborate on issues and concerns impacting the insurance industry, with a focus on recruitment (people and businesses), sourcing and/or educating a trained workforce, and promoting innovation and enhancing the working environment.

About the Technology Support and Training Management Program

The Technology Support and Training Management Program (TSTM) is part of the University of South Carolina’s College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management. Students in the TSTM program receive an in-depth background in information technologies, including computer networking, database systems, corporate training and development, and end-user support. Graduates have a diverse IT background and have obtained positions in various organizations ranging from network administrator to database administrator to director of information technologies.


Dr. Tena Crews accepts position in The Center for Teaching ExcellenceTena Crews, E.D. has accepted the position of Associate Director for Technology Teaching Excellence in The Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE.) In this newly developed position, Dr. Crews will collaborate with Dr. Jed Lyons, Faculty Director of CTE, to develop and implement sustainable programs, resources and/or services that improve faculty’s ability to use technology to enhance teaching and learning at the University of South Carolina.
Dr. Crews is an associate professor in the Technology Support and Training Program in the College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management. Her areas of expertise are on-line learning design, development, and pedagogy.For more information about CTE, please go to www.sc.edu/cte.


School of HRTM recognizes students who have received the following scholarships and awards for 2007-08:

Rebecca Glazer and Sarah Gisriel received the Carolina Chapter of Club Managers' Association of America (CMAA) scholarships.

Thomas Beyer received the American Express Scholarship Fund for dedication and achievement in pursuit of lodging industry career and the Ecolab Scholarship Fund for dedication and achievement in pursuit of lodging industry career.

Sahil Bumia received the Rama Scholar for the American Dream Fund for dedication and achievement in pursuit of lodging industry career.

Kaitlin Simonetti received the AH&LA Allied Member Scholarship Fund for dedication and achievement in pursuit of lodging industry career.

Katherine Tomich  received the AH&LEF Scholarship Fund for dedication and achievement in pursuit of lodging industry career.

Kaylee Crane received the Greater Columbia Restaurant Association Scholarship on behalf of Yesterday's Restaurant & Tavern.

Sara Trinkl received the Greater Columbia Restaurant Association Scholarship on behalf of Shealy's Bar B Que Restaurant.

Jordan Dexter Crafton, Julia Marie Flannery, Sarah Amelia Gisriel, Diana Carina Martinez and
Courtney Michelle Peralta each received the Pearce Scholarship.

Jacob Horne, Mandy Caroline Hough, Kaiti Mahadi, Katherine Tomich, Caroline Ward each recived the Pooser Scholarship.

Elizabeth Ashley Burk received the Peduzzi Scholarship.


Sloan Center Hosts “Tourism as a Catalyst for Economic Development”

The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Travel & Tourism Center at the University of South Carolina hosted a networking conference on September 28. The main focus of the conference was “Tourism as a Catalyst for Economic Development.” Participants participated from several other Sloan centers across the United States. There were different presentations made by the participants, as well as panel discussions on national and international tourism research. Working with center-affiliated faculty, proposals for future research related to the travel industry were developed. The proposals will produce information specifically designed to help the U.S. travel industry remain competitive.

“As director of the Sloan Travel & Tourism Center, I thank the Sloan Foundation for its generous support, and I thank the President's Office, Provost's Office, and Office of Research for their long-term investment in and support of the university's efforts in tourism in the U.S. and abroad,” said Dr. Rich Harrill.

The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Travel & Tourism Industry Center at the University of South Carolina was funded in part through a generous grant from the prestigious Sloan Foundation in New York. In 2004 the University of South Carolina launched the most comprehensive and inclusive travel and tourism industry research center in the United States as a joint effort between the College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management and the Darla Moore School of Business.
For more information, visit www.hrsm.sc.edu/travelandtourism.


Retail Student, Hadley Britt, Designs a Career

Hadley Britt photo

Plenty of recent college graduates aren’t ready to launch their careers, much less their own fashion lines. Hadley Britt ’s already done both.

As part of her major at the University of South Carolina, she attended the Paris Fashion Institute. She came home with an idea for a line of dresses and accessories, which she sews, then sells at M on Devine Street.

Now, she’s headed to New York to pursue her dream job, editor in chief of Vogue. She’ll be interning there starting this month. Will she dare to share the elevator with the Prada-wearing Anna Wintour?

“She’s pretty intimidating, so I think I might steer clear,” Hadley says. Hadley’s attitude about the fashion industry is healthy: “While the success rate for aspiring designers, models and even editors is very low, that’s just the tip of the iceberg as far as job opportunities go. I hope to find my niche.”

Her style sense is levelheaded too: “It bugs me when people adopt a look just because it’s the current trend, ignoring their body type in the process.

Reprinted with permisson of Skirt Magazine. Photo by Kasi Koshollek


College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management Welcomes New Deans

Sheryl Kline assumes interim dean positionDr. Sheryl Kline photo

The faculty and staff of the College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management at the University of South Carolina (HRSM/USC) are pleased to welcome Sheryl Kline and Muzzo Uysal to the college in leadership roles.

Dr. Kline will serve as interim dean of the college. She joins USC from Purdue University, where she was the C B Smith Professor of Hotel Management and Director of the Center for the Study of Lodging Operations. Dr. Kline also has a strong record of research in the area of hotel operation and management. Her most recent research has included the impact of technology on lodging management and crisis management. Among her publications, she has authored or co-authored numerous refereed journal articles, two textbooks, one book and eight book chapters. She has presented at more than 30 national and international conferences. Her textbook, Hotel Front Office Simulations, is used by more than 50 colleges and universities.

She is the recipient of several international teaching awards, the most recent of which is the John Wiley & Sons Award for Innovation in Teaching given by the International Council of Hotel, Restaurant, Institutional Educators.  Dr. Kline holds a Ph.D. in Psychological Studies in Education from Temple University, M.S. in Hotel Administration from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and a B.A. in Economics and English from Rutgers University.

Muzzo Uysal joins HRSM as associate deanDr. Muzzo Uysal

Dr. Uysal will serve as professor and associate dean in the college. Before joining USC, Dr. Uysal was a faculty member at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) for 15 years and Clemson University for five years.

He received his Ph.D. from Texas A&M University and M.B.A. from the University of New Haven and a B.S. from Ankara Academy of Economics & Commercial Sciences.

Dr. Uysal has extensive experience in the travel and tourism field, authoring or co-authoring a significant number of articles in tourism, hospitality and recreation journals, proceedings, several book chapters, four monographs and one book relating to different aspects of tourism marketing, demand/supply interaction and international tourism. He is a member of the International Academy for the Study of Tourism, the Academy of Leisure Sciences and served as co-editor of Tourism Analysis: an Interdisciplinary Journal. In addition, he sits on the editorial boards of eight journals, including the Journal of Travel Research and Annals of Tourism Research as resource editor.

Dr. Uysal has received many research, service and teaching awards. His current research interests center on tourism demand/supply interaction, tourism development and marketing and international tourism.

 


Rich Harrill Featured in Greenville News
International Tourism Research Institute Director,
Rich Harrill, featured in Greenville News.
Click here for story...

 


Landmark Chinese Tourism Project Announced
Columbia, South Carolina

The Alfred P. Sloan Travel & Tourism Industry Center at the University of South Carolina, in partnership with the Travel Industry Association of America (TIA), is launching a major research project addressing the anticipated future increase in Chinese travelers visiting the United States.

Surveys and interviews will be conducted in major Chinese cities to determine why citizens want to come to the United States, what sites they’re interested in seeing and how long they intend to visit this country.  The project will also examine the cultural, social, economic and political conditions that will affect travel from China to the United States.

The World Tourism Organization (WTO) predicts that more than 100 million Chinese tourists will travel to other countries by 2020, making China the number one exporter of tourists. Currently, Chinese citizens are only able to visit countries with Approved Destination Status (ADS).  Although the United States is rapidly moving toward establishing a formal ADS agreement, few businesses and destinations are adequately preparing for their arrival.

“This project is a landmark examination of the future, outbound Chinese tourism market for the United States,” said Dr. Rich Harrill, director of the Sloan Travel & Tourism Center."This research is important to United States’ competitiveness in the travel and tourism industry because it will help businesses and tourism destinations plan and benefit economically from this potentially significant market.”

Dr. Robert Li, a Center faculty associate, will manage the project. Results should be available in December.

The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Travel & Tourism Industry Center is a comprehensive and inclusive travel and tourism research and outreach center and is a joint effort of the College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management and the Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina.  It is funded in part through a generous grant from the prestigious Sloan Foundation, headquartered in New York.

The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Travel & Tourism Industry Center is available to partner with businesses, organizations, and agencies at the local, state, national, and international level.  Please contact Dr. Rich Harrill at 1-803-777-7682 or rharrill@mailbox.sc.edu.

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Darlington takes aggressive approach with ticket pricing
. . . Tom Regan, a professor in USC's College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management, which has conducted a number of economic-impact studies on Darlington Raceway, points to the competition for the dollars of race fans, even within NASCAR itself. During the past two months, there have been five other races in this region: Atlanta; Bristol, Tenn.; Martinsville, Va.; Talladega, Ala.; and Richmond, Va. More...
-- The (Charleston) Post and Courier, via The (Columbia) State

Lesa France Kennedy, NASCAR International Speedway Corporation CEO Lesa France Kennedy participated in The Thomas H. Regan Executive Sport Seminar which was held April 27, 2010.More...
--The State

Tourism, Innovation, Creativity, and Growth: Advancing South Carolina’s New Economic Development
By Dr. Rich Harrill, Director of USC's International Tourism Research Institute and Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Travel & Tourism Industry Center
It is truly an exciting time to be living and working in South Carolina. As a South Carolina native, I have seen our state make great strides in the economic development arena despite the recession.
More...
— Midlandsbiz

Union student shares Olympics experiences
Tyler McBride is back in Weddington "to enjoy some sleep and good home cooking" after spending two months in Whistler, British Columbia, as an intern at the 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympics. More...
-- The Charlotte Observer

Shop Around: Shop Proud, Shop Columbia
. . . But a campaign like this is about more than just keeping tax dollars in the community, said Marianne Bickle, professor of retailing at the University of South Carolina. More...
-- The (Columbia) State

Will S.C. buy 'appliance-clunkers' deals?
. . . But Marianne Bickle, head of USC's retailing department, said Sears' aggressive approach is not being duplicated by other retailers, and that could leave a lot of money on the shelf.
More...
-- The (Columbia) State

Shop Around: Census gives retailers key data . . .
"This is the prime opportunity to really get those types of retailers in your area," said Marianne Bickle, chairwoman of the retailing department at USC. "This is a way to enhance your community."
More...
-- The (Columbia) State

Studies show work productivity harmed by March Madness
. . . “I’ve seen one that went up as high as $1.7 billion,“ said Dr. Mark Nagel, associate professor at the University of South Carolina’s Department of Sport and Entertainment Management. “Employers have to figure out how hard do I watch my employees and do I encourage them to participate in office pools or do I go the other direction, which is outright preventing them from participating.“
-- The Danville (Va.) Register Bee, and elsewhere, via the (Florence) Morning News
More...

Retailers Hope February Sales a Sign of Good Things to Come
As the economy accelerates, consumers are feeling more comfortable opening their wallets and purses again, said Marianne Bickle, chair of the Department of Retailing at the University of South Carolina. More...
--The Greenville News

For College Grads, Flexibility Key in Tough Job Market
When Kaitlin Simonetti dove into the applicant pool after graduating from the University of South Carolina’s School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Management in May 2009, she never expected to be struggling against the current just to land an hourly job. More...
Hotel News Now

SPTE Student Provides Olympic
answers Kate Erikson is stoked by the energy and excitement around her. . . . She's an intern at the Vancouver Olympics, working with a sports-event management company from Australia. More...
-- The (Fredericksburg, Va.) Free Lance-Star

HRSM Students Help Vancouver Get Ready
On your mark, get set, let the games begin! As you tune in to watch the 2010 Olympics, look for some familiar Gamecock Nation faces in the crowd. Nearly a dozen South Carolina students are helping to prepare for the mammoth world sporting event in Vancouver. The students are part of a worker bee force helping to make the ceremonies a huge success. More...

A Conversation with Simon Hudson
Simon Hudson
is a top tourism expert who was recruited to South Carolina from the University of Calgary. He discusses his research, his thoughts on the state's tourism industry, and why he chose to come to South Carolina.
— MidandsBiz

Hudson on Board as CoEE Chair in Tourism
South Carolina’s biggest industry received a major boost today when one of the world’s top tourism experts officially arrived at the University of South Carolina, recruited through the state’s Centers of Economic Excellence (CoEE) Program. More...
(To visit CoEE in Tourism and Economic Development, click here.)

SPTE's Matt Brown, Quoted in "They want to get into city's venue game"
-- Athletic Business, via The Indianapolis Star

RETL's Marianne Bickle Quoted in Sun News Article on Cyber Monday
—The Sun News

Fashion Fights Cancer
Click here for slideshow
— The Daily Gamecock

McCutchen House is Now Green Certified
To watch the press conference, click here.

DHEC Launches Green Hospitality Initiative
— The (Columbia) Free Times

SPTE's Mark Nagel Quoted in NY Times on WNBA Franchise Moving From Detroit to Tulsa
—The New York Times

BRIEFS

Congratulations to TSTM’s John Gerdes who is one of the winners of the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) awards, as announced by the Provost today. John will be recognized, along with the other winners, at the February 3 Faculty Senate meeting. More...
Click to see the video.

Congratulations to HRTM student Rachel McDuffie, Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Chapter President, who has been awarded the PCMA Student Annual Meeting Scholarship.

Congratulations to HRTM faculty member, Carole Sox, who was awarded a Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Annual Meeting Faculty Scholarship.

Congratulations to students of the College of HRSM who made the President's Honor Roll and the Dean's List for Fall '09. Click here for list.

Congratulations to HRTM faculty member, Rick Gant, who just returned from the Catersource Conference where he competed in the Table Top Contest. He earned three first place awards -- Best of Show, Most Creative and Most Original.

Congratuations to SPTE faculty member, Dr. John Grady, who was elected to a two year term on the board of directors for the Sport & Recreation Law Association More importantly, Dr. Grady was named the winner of the SRLA Young Professional Award which recognizes excellence in research, teaching, and service devoted to sport and recreation law and significant contributions to the study of the legal aspects of sport and recreation law.  Both honors came during the organization’s annual conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Congratulations to Jason Carpenter who was recently ranked, eighth among the top 20 North American retailing authors based on appearances in the four major retailing specialist journals in Hyun, J. and Runyan, R.C. (2009), North American Author and Institution Rankings in Retail Research: An Analysis of Retail Journals from 1994 – 2008, Proceedings of Retailing 2009: Strategic Challenges and Opportunities in Uncertain Times, The Ninth Triennial Academy of Marketing Science/American Collegiate Retailing Association Retailing Conference, New Orleans, LA.

Dean's Award for Outstanding Service
The Dean’s Award recognizes a graduating senior for outstanding leadership and service. The award recipient is nominated by faculty and staff. Selection is based upon co-curricular involvement and contributions made to the College, the University or civic organization. Erin Elizabeth Nobles was awarded the Dean’s Award for Service. For photos, click here.

Congratulations to Tena Crews, winner of the Southern Business Education Association’s Outstanding Leadership Award for 2009.  This award is the oldest and most prestigious of those given by the SBEA.  Previous winners include Dean Emeritus Pat Moody (1996).

Congratulations to Dr. John Grady, who is being recognized at the 2009 Faculty Awards Ceremony as the winner of the Ada B. Thomas Outstanding Faculty Advisor for his outstanding service to students.

Academic Excellence Award Recipients
The Academic Excellence Award recognizes to the most outstanding graduating senior in each of the six degree programs: BUSED, HRTM, BAIS, RETL, SPTE and TSTM. Each recipient receives an engraved plaque.
Bridgett A. Barefoot - BUSED
Caroline W. Simmons - HRTM
Lindsay A. Lavigne - BAIS Amanda S. Martin - RETL
Timothy P. Cline - SPTE
Laura E. Hornsby - TSTM
For photos, click here.

 

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