NOVA Chapter of NSMH Attends Conference in Charlotte

National Society for Minorities in Hospitality (NSMH) is a national student organization originating out of Cornell University. NSMH gives students in hospitality a means to further their careers and explore everything the hospitality industry has to offer. In 2011, a chapter was chartered by Dequan Smith, NOVA hospitality professor and NSMH advisor. Emily Radaubaugh, the current chapter president, recently led student members on a professionally enriching experience to the regional conference.

This year the regional conference took place in Charlotte, North Carolina. The purpose of the conference is to aid students in developing the tools needed to grow in the hospitality industry. In general, the conference provides information and opportunities for internship and open positions in the hospitality industry. Ten of Annandale’s NSMH chapter members attended.

Activities included networking opportunities with students from other universities and a chance to meet human resources representatives from the world’s most renowned hospitality organizations such as Aramark, Sodexo, Disney and Marriott. Panel discussions gave students the opportunity to ask crucial questions about what these companies seek in a potential applicant.

The second day was focused on preparation for interviewing. The panels gave advice on resume do’s and don’ts, how to gain industry experience and maintaining professional relationships while “playing the field” when job hunting.

The host hotel, Marriott, in partnership with the NSMH National Board, sponsored Dellatoro McNeal II, a global motivational speaker who broke the barriers of leading in the workplace by example.

The conference was a valuable experience for students by enriching their knowledge of the hospitality profession. Smith, the Leadership Board and society members would like to thank NOVA’s Student Activities Tom DiCato for making this possible.