Visiting local restaurants, hotels, and attractions are essential lessons for students in Meredith’s Hospitality and Tourism Management Program. During the 2021-22 academic year, students and Program Director Michael Altman have visited a variety of locations including the PNC Arena, Durham Food Hall, the Angus Barn, and The Bradford.

During the visit to PNC Arena, students in the Sport Management class watched the Carolina Hurricanes defeat the Toronto Maple Leafs 3-1, but the ice was not the only place they put their focus. The class was required to observe everything at the game from parking to entry, seating, signage, sponsorship, advertising, food service, bathrooms, accessibility, exits, and more.

Afterward, students had to write a reflection on the overall fan experience, parts of which were shared with the Hurricanes marketing director.

At the new Durham Food Hall, venue owner and Meredith alumna Adair Mueller, ’11, welcomed Meredith hospitality and tourism students for a tour. She talked with students about her work and the challenges of operating her business before and during COVID-19. The venue is now fully open for business and actively booking events in its upper-level space.

At the Angus Barn, Meredith students were able to get a behind-the-scenes look at one of Raleigh’s most prominent restaurants. Senior Manager Jill Highsmith introduced hospitality and tourism students to the head butcher at the Angus Barn, who showed the group what it takes to prepare their signature aged steaks that are served to almost 20,000 patrons every month. Students also learned about the Walk for Hope event to raise funds and awareness about mental health, and helped to promote the event on Meredith’s campus. The Walk for Hope is held on the Angus Barn property.

At event venue The Bradford, two Meredith alumnae Dana Keck Kadwell, ’06, and Courtney Keck Hopper, ’01, gave event management students a tour of their property in New Hill, N.C. The co-owners were joined by Sales Director Molly Fields for a discussion about their journey of designing, building, and operating one of the region’s most successful wedding venues.