Hospitality Management student, Yolanda Suarez, continues to do big things. As the National Programs Director for the National Society of Minorities in Hospitality, Suarez attended a retreat in Washington D.C. last June along with the national board of student members. The group of leaders quickly rolled up their sleeves and managed to draw up plans for workshops, marketing, and the themes for upcoming regional and national conferences. As if that wasn’t enough, they also took time to sharpen their skills by attending professional development workshops and public speaking seminars.
Suarez got involved with NSMH during her freshman year at FIU. “NSMH is a nationwide student run organization, recognized as the premier professional organization for developing exceptional minority student talent and leadership,” said Suarez. Before reaching the national level, she was appointed to Hospitality Week Chair, where she planned a week of events with assistance from the e-board. The following year, she served as Vice President for FIU’s NSMH chapter, and later as a junior, she served as President of FIU NSMH.
“It’s a dream come true,” she said. “I could not be prouder to serve as National Programs Director, but none of it would be possible without my years spent with our chapter [at FIU] and our amazing adviser Dr. [Miranda] Kitterlin.”
FIU NSMH is currently looking for e-board and general members. Membership is open to all hospitality students. You can e-mail mkitterl@fiu.edu for more information on how to join and represent FIU at regional and national conferences.
