Second Hospitality and Tourism Alumni Panel Held 

Meredith’s Student Chapter of the National Association of Catering and Events (NACE) recently hosted its second annual Hospitality and Tourism Alumni Panel in Kresge Auditorium. 

The event was held with gracious support from Rocky Top Catering, Paige Patisserie, Broyhill Business Scholars, and the Office of Student Leadership and Service.

After opening remarks and introductions from NACE President Emma Anderson, Meredith graduates Madison Hamilton, ’21, from the Umstead Hotel & Spa, Rebekah Lakey, ’22, of the North Carolina Bar Association, Emma Dressel, ’22, of Rocky Top Catering, Lindsey Simmons, ’23, from Merrimon-Wynne House and Anna Forno, ’23, of Heights House were joined onstage by Hospitality and Tourism Program Director Michael Altman for a spirited conversation. Topics ranged from how Meredith helped prepare them for their transition to the working world, some of the most fun and challenging parts of their current jobs, and where they see the industry and themselves headed in the future. 

The panel also took questions from the audience. Students were then invited to a reception in the alcove where they were able to enjoy yummy appetizers from Rocky Top Catering and special Valentine’s Day truffles from Paige Patisserie and “mix it up” with the panelists and each other. 

Altman said the continued support by alumni of the hospitality and tourism management program is greatly appreciated. He looks forward to hosting the panel discussion again next year.