Here is an image from a previous Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer and Food Festival
event.
The 15th annual Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer and Food Festival serves as an opportunity for Hospitality Management students from Ferris State University to network with regional experts in food and spirits, as they planned to staff the event at the DeVos Place Convention Center in Grand Rapids, Friday, Nov. 18 and Saturday, Nov. 19.
Associate Professor Amy Dorey is the director of the Hospitality Management program. She said students have been participating in this festival since its inception.
“Our students receive an exceptional opportunity to connect with executives from breweries, distilleries, wineries and restaurant groups here in Michigan and throughout the region,” Dorey said. “Those who pay to attend the festival and the hospitality services professionals who take part are always impressed with our students and graduates.”
Dorey said in previous years, the Hospitality Management department collaborated with the College of Business and registered student organizations to present as many as 175 students to staff the tasting tables and take up other duties at the festival.
“It is now up to our Bachelor of Science, Associate of Applied Science and certificate programs to determine their participation levels for this event,” Dorey said. “The festival is embedded in the Hospitality Management curriculum, with participation being a course assignment, with our students submitting a reflection on their experience for our review.”
There are 14 hours of seminars on cooking and cocktails, joining with the ability to sample hundreds of products at the festival, as well as other entertainment.
“It is a great deal of work each year, but it is always a great experience for our students who participate,” Dorey said. “They receive a greater understanding of the scope of work available for them, with wonderful value for their investment of time and effort.”