Hospitality Students Visit Raleigh Crabtree Marriott

Meredith alumna Vanessa Jackson, ”04, Raleigh Marriott Crabtree senior catering sales manager, welcomed the HOS 320 class to tour the hotel and learn about the diverse clientele they serve. 

Jackson and her team rolled out the red carpet for the students with a beautifully plated snack and refreshing beverages for the students to enjoy as they learned about the ins and outs of hotel sales and management.

Jackson spoke to the students about the various cultural events they do at the hotel as well as the importance of having a diverse staff. The students were able to tour the many event spaces and see firsthand the juggling of multiple events happening at the same time. 

They were also able to experience the company’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and to creating an equitable, and enjoyable work environment. The Triangle has always been a melting pot of sorts, but with the rise of industry, manufacturing, and technology coming to the area, we will be seeing more and more diversity in the Triangle.  Whether it is a cultural wedding or an LGBTQIA+ conference, Raleigh Marriott Crabtree is dedicated to creating a warm and welcoming environment for all. 

We are so grateful for the opportunity to come and hear more about how to not only plan and execute a cultural event but also how to go beyond the norm of hospitality and practice inclusion and equity in the workplace. 

Students pictured are Emma Anderson, Aly Thomas, Naomi Schoenberger Ashley Merritt, Gabi Baker, Anna Millett, Lauren Johnson, Alyson Johnson, Alison Bunce, Tylena Brown, Chloe Dixon, Brie Caldwell, Katie Garrett, Kaylee Hass, Giselle Quijada Liborio, Lindsey Simmons