College of Business

Sustainable Hospitality Management Program Is Approved For Permanent Status

February 4th, 2020 － We are pleased to announce that the Sustainable Hospitality Management (SHM) program has been approved for permanent status, effective starting Fall 2020. The Bachelor of Science Sustainable Hospitality Management (BSSHM) degree was designed by Executive Director Dr. John Avella and Assistant Professor Dr. Jarret Bachman with the approval of Dean Shyam Kamath and Department Chair Marylou Shockley. Utilizing a contemporary approach to hospitality management and sustainability, the program was created to fill a current and future need that is critical within the hospitality industry. According to Executive Director, Dr. John Avella, “The goal is to provide a degree that is both unique and meaningful."

The SHM Program at CSUMB is the only one like it in the country. Since its beginning as a pilot program in Fall 2015, under the leadership of Dr. Avella, the BSSHM major has grown from 45 students in Spring 2016 to 87 students as of Fall 2019. Currently, two pathways are offered within SHM: Sustainable Hotel, Resort, and Event Management and Sustainable Ecotourism Management. Strong support within the Monterey Bay hospitality industry provides students with scholarships, internships, and jobs with top organizations. Volunteering is required to further emphasize the curriculum, create networking opportunities, and provide hands-on learning experiences. One such example is the SHM Program’s partnership with Pebble Beach where CSUMB/SHM students are trained to manage the corporate hospitality area during Concours d’Elegance. Students also fill volunteer positions in the community at events such as the Monterey County Hospitality Association (MCHA) Gala, Red Cross Farm to Table, and Sea Otter Classic. As stated by University President, Dr. Eduardo Ochoa, “….with the additional emphasis of sustainability, the program reflects the growing international demand for environmental awareness and conservation.” This was a consistent theme in the 2017 and 2019 international Hospitality Summit events created through the SHM program in partnership with the Monterey Bay Ecotourism Initiative (MBETR). These events have not only heightened awareness of environmental issues within the Monterey Bay hospitality industry but has also brought attention to the incredible work by the SHM program at CSUMB.

Looking forward, the Program’s transition to permanent status means that its positive impact on the community will continue for years to come. Future goals include growing the program to include an international presence to further improve students' lives through an abundance of career opportunities where they will be able to have a positive impact on our environment.