Hospitality Industry Panel Strengthens Alumni and Industry Engagement
Alumni and industry leaders returned to campus for a hospitality industry panel exploring career pathways, emerging trends, and continued engagement with UIC Business.
Hospitality Industry Panel Strengthens Alumni and Industry Engagement
On February 12, we welcomed alumni and industry leaders back to campus for Opportunities in the Hospitality Industry: A Panel Discussion, engaging more than 150 students in thoughtful dialogue about career pathways and emerging trends shaping the hospitality sector.
Industry Insight and Career Pathways
Our panelists — David Henkes (Technomic), Alan Reed (Chicagoland Food & Beverage Network), Cecil Barnes (The Gwen), and Tiffany Pruitt-Melvin (Time Out Market) — shared insights on leadership pathways, operational strategy, analytics, and guest experience. Together, they illustrated how adaptable business skills translate across industries and create opportunities in dynamic, evolving markets.
Alumni Engagement in Action
What stood out most was the panelists’ deep commitment to mentoring the next generation. They praised our students’ professionalism and engagement, connected with many afterward on LinkedIn, and expressed interest in continued involvement with UIC Business. That sustained engagement reflects the strength of our alumni network, the value of our industry partnerships, and the lasting impact of a UIC Business education.
I am grateful to the faculty and staff who supported this event and to our alumni and industry partners who invested their time and expertise in our students. Experiences like this reinforce what makes our community distinctive: a shared commitment to preparing business leaders through connection, mentorship, and real-world insight.
— Dean Sandy Wayne