21st Annual HTM New Student Welcome Reception

Isenberg’s Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM) Department recently held its 21st Annual New Student Welcome Reception for all newly admitted students—including first-year, new double major, and internal and external transfer students. They were joined by student ambassadors, faculty members, and engaged HTM leadership board members, for a total of 85 attendees.

New HTM Department Chair Melissa Baker kicked off the event by delivering a welcome address, highlighting how hospitality and tourism is the largest industry in the world—meaning a degree in HTM represents endless possibilities. Baker told the students that they are the future of the industry and to embrace all the possibilities their time at UMass can offer and all the possibilities as future leaders in this dynamic industry.

Fred Mitzner ’86 (board member and senior vice president, ConferenceDirect) emceed the event with HTM alumni Victoria Vega ’88 (board member and senior vice president of operations, Compass Community Living Hospitality Group), Todd Barry ’88 (owner, Moby Dick’s Restaurant), and Ali DeMilia ’14 (board member and director of rooms, Hotel Commonwealth), giving students valuable insight into industry possibilities based on their experiences at UMass and during their professional careers:

Prior to the event, students submitted questions to panelists, so they were able to tailor their remarks toward students’ interests in today's global business world. Barry professed that his favorite part of the industry is people. This includes a wide range of seasonal workers from across the globe and many customers who have become friends and family.

Vega discussed how the hospitality industry gives such vital and transferable skills and that customer experiences are the backbone of every industry.

DeMilia spoke of her passion for hotel operations management and how great managers are committed to coaching, mentoring, and developing great talent.

Mitzner highlighted how relationship building with clients is crucial and so many of his clients come back year after year. He also shared with the panel the importance of developing relationships on campus—pointing out that many alumni say they have found their best friends at Isenberg.

Other leadership board members in attendance included Brendan Collins, Jane Pritzker, Paul Flaherty, Russ Savrann, and Tim Brett.

The session closed with students taking the opportunity to network and engage with members of the board, alumni, and faculty.

View the full media gallery here.