Becoming a Member
Students interested in joining the HTMT Student Advisory Board should contact Kevin Ayres at kmayres@hrsm.sc.edu to learn more about the application process.
Students selected for the board are required to attend three meetings per semester as well as one qualified event and one recruiting event per semester.
In addition to enhancing the student experience, board members receive written recommendations from faculty for their application portfolios, name tags and business cards.
2025-26 Student Advisory Board
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Meredith Aase (Chair)
I chose the University of South Carolina's hospitality and tourism management program because of how well known it is for preparing students for their future careers in hospitality. The instructor reputation, experiential learning opportunities, and ability to begin taking major coursework in the first year is extremely beneficial to students.
A full-time position in hotel/development
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Josie Anaya
I am from Rockaway Beach, N.Y., a small seaside town in a suburb of New York City. My major is hospitality management with a minor in advertising and public relations. My passion is food, whether it's dining out, cooking or shopping for it, visiting new restaurants, or sharing food experiences with friends and family. Upon graduation, my ideal job is one where I am able to share the beauty, elegance, and community of food with others.
Working for a print and digital media company that connects with food lovers to share mouth-watering food-related content, trends, and the latest culinary developments
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Weston Booth
I chose the USC’s School of HTMT because I have a passion for hospitality and helping people and this school really fit that goal. I also chose the HTMT school because of how accessible and approachable all of the professors are and how they all want to better our education and professional lives whenever they can.
Club manager
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Emma Burton
I chose the School of HTMT because of its industry connections and world-renowned professors. Learning from these experts while being part of a supportive community was important to me. The program focuses on leadership and creativity which lines up with my passion for creating unforgettable experiences through event planning.
Working in events for a club or having my own event planning company.
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Bella Donofrio
I have always loved the hospitality industry, and truly feel that it is my calling. I have been involved with it since I was 14 years old, and absolutely fell in love with the experiences it grants, but also the joy it brings me. I am able to serve others to my highest potential and truly see others happy.
A management position within country clubs, or even working for Augusta National Golf Club.
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Natalie Hall (Head of Social Media)
I chose HTMT because I knew there was no program better to challenge, prepare, and support me throughout my college experience and beyond. As a prospective student, I felt valued and prioritized, which hasn’t changed since becoming a student here.
My dream job post graduation would with be to travel the world and make a difference either with a luxury hotel company or a sports team.
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Max Hovious
I am a hospitality management student pursuing the HTMT club management concentration. I chose USC because of the reputation that the College of HRSM holds in the club management industry, and I want the best possible degree to go with my work experiences. I serve as an HRSM leader and a board member for the university’s CMAA student chapter to further complement my passion for learning about hospitality and the club industry.
General manager at a top-tier private country club
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August Jansen (Vice Chair)
I chose USC's School of HTMT because it seemed to cater most to what I wanted to do. Most schools lump Hospitality and Tourism together and then throw it in the business school, but the programs at USC seemed much more focused.
Working in tourism development or resort management
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Trevor Lazarus
I am currently pursuing a degree in hospitality management with a minor in events management. My experience includes working at two Masters Tournaments in Augusta, Georgia, and broadening my international perspective through an internship at the Paris Olympics. Currently, I serve as a leader and ambassador for the College of HRSM, where I educate prospective students about our programs and assist with student and alumni events.
A position with a luxury hotel brand, dedicated to creating unique experiences and events
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Sydney Lynch
I first toured USC's school of HTMT as a junior in high school. I knew I wanted to study Tourism Management, and the hospitality and kindness shown to me the day I toured really sealed the deal on top of the opportunities I knew that i would not be able to get anywhere else. From that day forward, I knew I had to be a Gamecock. When I was accepted to USC, I committed that very day. I grew up traveling and I wanted to attend a program where my love of the hospitality and tourism industries would be celebrated. That is what I have felt within HTMT from the beginning.
Event coordinator for a luxury hotel company
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Kelsey McKnight
I am a hospitality management major. I chose USC because when I toured it, I fell in love with the department and all the amazing opportunities and people. I knew USC was where my future was going to be. I have already had internships, certifications and opportunities to work in my field. I am also interested in studying abroad. I can’t wait to see where USC takes me in the next few years.
Owning my own restaurant or resort
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Savannah Miller
When picking out what college I wanted to attend, it was the College of Hospitality and Tourism that made my decision super easy! This college has taught me so much and continues to push me to be a better person and student. I am so grateful for all the faculty, peers, and the opportunities I have been given to make my four years of college an amazing experience!
A full-time private event planner who focuses on special events
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Jackson Nazzaro
I am very passionate about the hospitality industry and I knew South Carolina had one of the best programs in the country so I knew it would be a great fit for me.
Club or resort manager
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Madi Schnepfe
I am an energetic and driven tourism management student from Frederick, Maryland. I have gained experience working for a corporate and non-profit event planning firm in Bethesda, Maryland. I also work as a campus ambassador for many brands including Glow Recipe and Sol De Janeiro. I'm a member of Alpha Gamma Delta, HRSM Leaders & HRSM's social media intern.
An event planner working in experiential marketing
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Liam Sullivan
I chose this school, because I aspire to be a more versatile professional in the food and beverage and service industry. I also enjoy working with people.
Head chef
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Reagan Uffelman (Secretary)
Due to all the incredible opportunities offered through this program. The hands on experience is something I am truly passionate about. Another factor is the staff and how incredibly supportive they are in and outside the classroom.
Event coordinator/ event operations in the golf industry
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Gabrielle Walters
I am currently pursuing a degree in Tourism Management with a focus on club management. My experience includes interning at Cherokee Town and Country Club, working at two Masters Tournaments in Augusta, Georgia, and supporting hospitality operations at PGA Tour events. I further broadened my global perspective through a study abroad program in Florence, Italy, where I gained insight into international tourism practices. I also serve as a leader and ambassador for the College of HRSM, where I represent the program to prospective students and alumni. I am passionate about advancing in club management and delivering meaningful hospitality experiences.
A position that allows me to travel, focus on creating unique experiences, and promote sustainability in tourism