Tuesday, March 19, 2024

IAAPA Foundation awards scholarships to seven Rosen College students

The IAAPA Foundation Board of Directors granted scholarship funding for seven students attending the University of Central Florida’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management who are following the Attractions Management track toward a career in the attractions industry. 

Tom Wages, Executive Director of the IAAPA Foundation; Dr. Youcheng Wang, Dean of the Rosen College of Hospitality Management; and Reno Deschaine, Vice President of IAAPA Global Professional Development presented the IAAPA Scholarships to the seven student recipients. 

Rosen College of Hospitality Management, located in Orlando, Florida, educates the next generation of industry leaders through internationally recognized faculty, innovative academic programs, innovative research and strong industry and community partnerships who deliver a global perspective on hospitality, event management, entertainment and attractions management, restaurant and food service management, lodging, senior living management and tourism. 

Read Rosen College Assistant Professor of Theme Park and Attraction Management Dr. Carissa Baker’s exploration in theme park storytelling.

“Rosen College has consistently proven that its culture of global hospitality education, integrated curriculum and industry partnerships makes it a top choice for educating the future leaders of the hospitality industry,” says Dean Wang. “We are extremely proud to hold the honored position of being one of the top programs in the world.”

The seven scholarship recipients who are following the attractions management track are: Catherine Mahr, La Plata, Maryland; Caroline Marcotte, Hanover, Maryland; Sara Mautz, St. Petersburg, Florida; Caitlin O’Shea, Lutz, Florida; Taylor Schoolar, Richmond, Texas; Addison Swallows, Anderson, South Carolina; and Cole Williams, Berlin, New Jersey. 

The students expressed gratitude for the IAAPA Foundation awards. Caitlin O’Shea commented, “I am beyond grateful for this scholarship award. I am confident that both the Rosen College and IAAPA Foundation have set me up for success. I am reminded of why I chose this prestigious university and the passion I discovered here for creating extraordinary experiences for others.” Cole Williams added, “I am so excited and beyond thankful for this award and the opportunities it may hold for me. Thank you IAAPA Foundation so much for this award!”

The scholarship funds were provided to and administered by the UCF Foundation; however, they are specifically earmarked for Rosen College students who are following the attractions management track and are focused on a career in the attractions industry. 

Jim Seay, Chairman of the IAAPA Foundation and President of Premier Rides commented, “Rosen College students are excited about being contributing members of the attractions industry. And past Rosen IAAPA Foundation scholarship recipients have an amazing record of joining our exciting business right after graduating. It’s great to be part of their formula for success!”

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