Inaugural Hospitality Lecture

The School of Sport and Service Management in collaboration with the Institute of Hospitality (IoH) Sussex Branch, held its first hospitality lecture on the Eastbourne campus.

Speakers included Trisha Bennet from Hospitality Assured, Karren Fewell from Digital Blonde, and Bob Cotton OBE who transformed hospitality through his work with the British Hospitality Association and holds an honorary Doctorate from the school.

Hospitality Industry attendees and students enjoyed talks around the subject of quality assurance for organisations, mobile technology and food psychology, and the future of hospitality. The event was followed by canapés, wine and networking all produced and served by the team of the Culinary Arts Studio and supported by student volunteers.

The event was a resounding success:

Adam Rowledge, Chair of the IoH Sussex Branch said: “Thank you all so much for all of your efforts which went into making last night the fantastic event that it was.

“I know that a lot of work went into organising it, drumming up support and attendees, and of course making it work so well on the night, so thank you for a fantastic event.”

Jo Doust, Head of School said: “Well done team on achieving such a great event; this is the sort of industry collaboration and student engagement that makes our school great.”

A student volunteer said: “I really enjoyed helping out and we hope to see even more such events. I really liked all the sessions and the opportunity to network with industry leaders was a bonus!”

Dr Ioannis S. Pantelidis FIH, the event organiser said: “It really is a joy when you see the faces of students enjoying talking to industry colleagues. This event would not have been possible without the sponsorship and help of the Institute of Hospitality Sussex branch and the support of the school. I am really grateful to both.

“I am equally grateful to the hospitality management colleagues who supported this event and delivered excellent food and wine and the hospitality management student volunteers who showed the true meaning of hospitality to all of our guests, students and professionals alike.”