Events Management, Advanced Skill Set

Pamela Hamilton, RD LD
Professor and Program Coordinator
139 Education Building/(304)367-4297
Pamela.Hamilton@pierpont.edu

Program Purpose

This skill set program (under the direction of the Food Service Management program) includes a practicum experience that may be in the hospitality industry, at hotels, resorts, or conference centers.

The Events Management Advanced Skill set program is designed to be its own program of study, or it can be earned alongside other programs. All of the specific Events classes are available by distance education. Elective options in the program allow the student to select from a variety of courses to suit their individual interest.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Events Management Advanced Skill Set, completers will be able to do the following:

• Apply practical and creative aspects of coordinating major events, including conventions, political rallies, expos, corporate training and seminars, as well as large private receptions and parties
• Develop working relationships with a variety of customers which can be private or community based, business, corporate, or government entities
• Determine and set structure, purpose, goals and objectives of an event
• Identify the elements of an event; develop logical sequencing and efficient schedules, coordinating the environment, safe operations, staging the entertainment experience, and accommodating the audience
• Plan and execute business to business events requiring sound business practices including establishing a customer profile, strong financial planning and management, vendor relations, management of multiple contracts, and accurate attention to detail
• Practice protocol and process in choosing entertainment, decor, travel arrangements, catering, registration and other staging consideration, as well as build relationships with vendors and volunteers

Opportunities

Completers of the program will be experienced in planning various types of events in many venues, such as charity events, conferences, meetings, weddings, parties, parades, fairs, tours, fundraisers, tournaments, festivals, product & service promotions, sporting events, concerts, media campaigns, exhibitions, trade shows, dinners, holiday/birthday/engagement celebrations, and casino functions. Recent practicum experiences for students have included internships with regional county visitor bureaus.