MSU Celebrates 75 Years of hospitality

Greater Lansing Business Monthly, Jan 01, 2002 by Whittington, Jane

Seventy-five years of success. That's the anniversary being celebrated in 2002 by The School of Hospitality Business. But even while The School is looking back on its history, it looks forward to a bright future and a continuing role as one of the most wellrespected centers for quality education, innovation, research and service in the hospitality industry. A proud history; a dynamic present; an exciting future certainly cause for celebration.

Michigan State University (MSU) has the oldest business-based program in the hospitality industry; it had its beginnings when MSU was Michigan Agricultural College. At the urging of the Michigan Hotel Association, the program was designed to teach the business of hospitality. And, even though 75 years have passed and the world and the industry have changed, the mission remains the some-to offer the highest quality education to its students and to prepare them to become effective leaders in organizations providing hospitality services. With over 8,000 graduates now in leadership roles in all parts of the world, The School continues to be on the leading edge of innovation and progress in the industry.

Just this year, The School has become independent within the Eli Broad College of Business. A new undergraduate curriculum has been developed which will give students more elective options. New admission criteria include performance in coursework, completion of industry work experience, involvement in service activities and submission of a written statement of intent and goals. While the degree earned will remain the same (a baccalaureate in hospitality business), these changes help solidify The School's position as a toprated hospitality business school.

Ronald F. Cichy, PhD, now director and professor of The School of Hospitality Business (and newly named to The School of Hospitality Business Alumni Association Wall of Fame), has seen many changes since he received his first degree from MSU in 1972.

Cichy explained, "Like most industries, hospitality has seen a rise in consolidation. There are now fewer but much bigger companies as small ones merge or are taken over by larger ones. Another change is that we see many more global opportunities for our students; they are finding internships and jobs all over the world. Graduates of our programs have almost unlimited options as they decide where their careers will lead them. In terms of MSU's role, there is much more competition now for students. We may have been the first, but there are now many more choices for incoming students. In fact, there are over 30 programs right here in the state of Michigan. We've had to continue to grow and innovate to continue to attract the best and the brightest."

Competition notwithstanding, recruiters flock to MSU. A recent career expo attracted over 60 employers, some of whom only recruit at MSU, knowing they will find worldclass employees. Asked why there are so many recruiters interested in MSU students, Cichy replied, "They know that our students have a strong work ethic. They don't hesitate to roll up their sleeves and dig into hard work. By the time they graduate, they have real-life experience. Our students spend two semesters as interns and have the opportunity to put what they have learned in the classroom into 'real-life' situations. They know the work is sometimes difficult, but they are ready, willing and able to handle it. Because of their hands-on experience, our students have realistic expectations. Employers know that our graduates understand the business from top to bottom and can benefit the employer from day one. We are proud to say that we graduate students who are educated in allaspects of the hospitality industry. They understand finance, marketing and human resources as well as everything that's needed for the dayto-day functioning of a hotel, a casino, a restaurant, a theme park or a private club."

Cichy went on, "In addition, our students are taught to 'do well by doing good.' Employers appreciate the emphasis we place on giving back to the community. Service is important. Just as an example, within two weeks of the September 11 attacks, our students, alumni, faculty and staff started raising money for the Twin Towers Fund and sent off a check to New York City."

To raise money for such local charities as Paws for a Cause, Make-AWish, Ele's Place, Habitat for Humanity and many others, the school sponsors several activities open to the public. It's an opportunity for the community to observe students "in action." The planning, organizing and managing of the events are student led. Money raised goes to charity or to fund clubs and programs within the school. And it's fun!

In January, the newest addition to The School's events will take place. This year's Vegas Night 2002 will host more than 800 people who will gather to play blackjack, roulette and more providing the opportunity for students to learn more about the gaming industry, a growing segment of the business.

On February 9, the 11th annual auction will be held. More than 400 items will be auctioned off including a weeklong stay at Disney's new Animal Kingdom, a New York City adventure valued at over $7,000, and many other exciting goods and services.