College of Business

Pioneering the frontier of modern hospitality and tourism, the CSUMB Pebble Beach Scholars Program provides a new approach to earning your bachelor’s degree. Unparalleled innovation shows you how to create an exciting future career in the hospitality and tourism industry, developing your ability to recognize and set the highest standards for contemporary guest experiences. As a CSUMB Pebble Beach Scholar, you're not just joining a program, you're embarking on a journey to the newest frontiers of sustainable hospitality and leadership.

• $5,000 Scholarship: The scholarship recognizes your hard work and potential and will support your academic journey for up to four years (transfer students welcome).
  
• Real-World Experience: A specialized internship with Pebble Beach, offering 500 hours of practical experience annually.
• Extended Stay: After graduation, benefit from up to 18 months of housing at CSUMB's partnership rates if you join the Pebble Beach Team Leader program.
• Personalized Mentorship: Receive one-on-one guidance from dedicated faculty and professionals who are invested in your success.
• Leadership Development: Cultivate leadership skills through customized trainings and certifications designed to enhance scholars' qualifications.
  

• Professional Networking: Connect with a network of successful alumni and industry leaders that can help catapult your career to new heights.
  
• Community of Scholars: Join a vibrant community of like-minded peers, people who share your passion for knowledge and excellence.
  
• Priority Registration: Enjoy the privilege of early course selection, ensuring you get the classes you need to excel and to graduate on time. 
• Inspiring Academic Curriculum: Dive into a world of applied learning with inspiring courses that challenge your intellect and stimulate your curiosity.

Sustainable Hospitality Management Executive Director Paige P. Viren has over 13 years of expertise as a travel consultant. Holding a PhD in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Resources, Viren has dedicated her career to studying consumer behavior in the realm of tourism. Her research interests span a wide spectrum, including the dynamic fields of adventure travel, ecotourism and sustainable community-based tourism development. As executive director, Viren brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to our team and her mission is to educate and inspire the next generation of hospitality and tourism professionals.

Associate Professor Angel González has an extensive background in hospitality management. He is a graduate of the renowned Culinary Institute of America. His impressive professional history includes working for such organizations as Hilton Hotels & Resorts and the Walt Disney World Company. As a National Restaurant Association Certified Trainer, González is committed to advancing the skills and knowledge of hospitality professionals. His research interests include hospitality operations, strategic management, human resources, and gastronomy, reflecting a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted world of hospitality. González brings a wealth of experience and a passion for education to the academic realm as he works to shape future leaders of the hospitality industry.

Assistant Professor Alexis Lee’s unique blend of experiences  has shaped her academic journey. Hailing from South Korea, Lee initially honed her skills as a barista manager and barista exam judge, gaining valuable insights into the hospitality industry. Armed with a passion for creating supportive and inclusive environments, she pursued and earned a PhD in Hospitality and Tourism Management. Lee's research interests span a wide spectrum, including organizational behavior in the hospitality industry, operations management, food and beverage management, and sustainable work environments. With a dedication to fostering positive change in the academic and professional realms, she brings a wealth of practical and academic knowledge to her role, enriching the learning experience for her students.

Natalia Hurley is director of Programs and Guest Experience at the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium and adjunct lecturer for the SHM program. With a solid foundation in hotel and restaurants, Natalia brings broad experience to her role. Holding a master’s degree in nonprofit leadership and management, Hurley's passion lies in the intersection of sustainable business operations, sustainable destination management, multicultural interpretation and conservation communications. Her diverse background and research interests make her a valuable asset to the aquarium's commitment to environmental stewardship and immersive guest experiences, and to the teaching of those same principles at CSUMB..

Gretchen Melvin is a dynamic professional, currently serving as the special events manager for Pebble Beach Company and an adjunct Lecturer for the SHM program. In her role, she spearheads the Special Events Management Team  Internship Program, leveraging her extensive expertise in organizing and executing premier events. A proud alumna of UC Davis with a bachelor’s degree  in international relations, Gretchen's impeccable skills and experiences have proven invaluable to our students. Notably, she served as the chair for the historic U.S. Women's Open 2023 Volunteer Hospitality, showcasing her commitment to excellence in event management. With a passion for creating memorable experiences, Gretchen continues to be a driving force in the field, inspiring the next generation of event professionals.