UNT NSMH chapter attends national conference in Indianapolis

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

The UNT Chapter of the National Society of Minorities in Hospitality (NSMH) attended the 21st NSMH National Conference & Career Fair held in Indianapolis, IN this February.  The UNT chapter was represented by Michael Rodriguez, Elizabeth Pals (Vice President), Megan Hubl (Vice President of Development), Spencer Houghtaling (President), Melissa Portocarrero (Founding President), and Dr. Marvel Maunder (Chapter Advisor).

Chapter delegates attended the regional meeting, mingled with the 2010-2011 National Board candidates, and represented their NSMH peers with their votes. Day two of the conference offered a wide variety of workshops that addressed diversity issues, industry trends, public speaking, and networking. A town-hall meeting with Industry experts also was offered, in which these experts got into a lively exchange of ideas regarding the challenges and opportunities that hospitality management students must face in today's economy.

The NSMH Awards Gala showcased the many achievements of chapters across the nation. This year's final celebration was the Masquerade Ball. Over 800 students from more than 80 chapters nationwide competed for the 'Best Masque' and some serious bragging rights. The UNT chapter had two participants selected as finalists, with Portocarrero winning second prize.

As the founding UNT NSMH president, Portocarrero clearly understands the importance of participation in professional conferences and career networking. "Our chapter members had amazing opportunities to mingle with recruiters from Darden, Four Seasons, Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott, Starwood, Sodexo, among many others," she says. "The UNT chapter has established a strong presence at the annual NSMH conference and we're looking forward to next year's family reunion' in Atlanta," says Portocarrero.