Throwback to Employer Appreciation Dinner Hosted by BHTM Students

This spring, Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management (BHTM) students at Cape Breton University hosted a special Employer Appreciation Dinner in the Yvonne LeVert Hospitality Suite. As part of the University’s 50th Anniversary celebrations, the event highlighted the invaluable support of industry partners while providing students an opportunity to showcase their skills and creativity in planning and hospitality.

As part of the BHTM curriculum, each semester the HATM 3503 Meetings, Convention and Events Management class organizes a themed event where students work to conceptualize and execute a high-end event, from marketing and entertainment to logistics and food and beverage. This core course consists of two components, academic theory and experiential learning (or lab).

In the Winter 2024 semester, under the guidance of their instructor, Jennifer Currie, and the support of Chef Daniel Francois, the students invited 50 employers from the industry to experience an evening of appreciation and celebration. From the gold-inspired decorations to commemorate the University’s 50th anniversary to the curated menu, every detail of the evening presented the students’ exceptional talents, commitment and professionalism. The event also provides a platform for networking and collaboration within the Hospitality and Tourism industry.

Favour Chinweoke Akachukwu, a third-year BHTM student, was the kitchen team leader. “My classmates and I put our heads together to come up with the perfect dish that would suit the occasion, and despite some challenges, we pulled through and delivered an outstanding event,” shares Favour. “Working in the kitchen requires teamwork and respect for superiors, and I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to learn these skills in a high-pressure environment.”

Meenu Verma led the beverage team. Originally from India, Meenu gained work experience in Culinary Arts in Australia before deciding to pursue another aspect of the tourism industry in a different country. It was CBU’s unique location on the most beautiful island in Canada that drew her to Cape Breton.

In every lab, Meenu worked closely with team members and ensured everyone felt comfortable pouring drinks for the first time. The team created a special drink for the event called the Golden Cadillac. “We got so many compliments about the drink,” says Meenu. “Being a part of this wonderful event has honed my ability to focus on even the smallest details, from decorating and seating arrangements to creating the special cocktail that aligns with our 50th-anniversary theme.”

Meenu completed an internship at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel in Halifax last summer. “Many employers approached us in the bar area, introducing their resorts and hotels and showing keen interest in offering seasonal jobs to BHTM students,” says Meenu. “Engaging in conversations with employers about career aspirations and past experiences is one of the key activities of the night.”

One of the employers attending the event was Glen Morrison, General Manager at the Membertou Trade and Convention Centre (MTCC). He was impressed with the performance of the students and overall experience at the event. “As a past graduate and having been in the hospitality industry for over 35 years, I have a deep appreciation for the hard work and commitment of the students in the program,” Glen shares. “We have had Hospitality students assist with past large gala events, and I would like to expand on that and offer students more hands-on experience in food service, preparation and conference events.”

In addition to MTCC, the class also welcomed several Alumni currently holding management positions in the industry, including representatives from Holiday Inn Sydney Waterfront, Destination Cape Breton, the Simon Hotel Sydney and Cabot Cape Breton. “I hope that the tradition continues in the future with BHTM graduates supporting our program with mentorship and internship opportunities,” says Jennifer.

“The BHTM degree has managed to maintain strong connections to the industry for many years, ensuring its curriculum and internships remain current,” Jennifer adds. “For instance, as industry trends changed and employers required more staff into the Fall season, the BHTM program has restructured and enabled students to resume studies in mid-October. This not only provides students with more paid internship opportunities but also addresses the evolving needs of employers across the country.”

The event ended on a high note and provided a great opportunity to thank all Hospitality and Tourism employers while showcasing the students’ talents and ingenuity. The story of CBU is not complete without recognizing the many ways that our students, Alumni and the community have given of themselves and added to our story. The journeys they have shared with us over these 50 years allow us to thrive for decades to come.

To stay up to date on the 50th celebration, visit cbu.ca/50.