CMU partners with new hotel to boost hospitality programs

A new partnership will link the hospitality programs at Central Michigan University with local hotels to provide space for a new Marriott in Mt. Pleasant as well as experience to students in their chosen field.

 

The CMU Board of Trustees agreed to finalize a lease with Mount Pleasant Hospitality LLC, or Lodgco, which will build a Courtyard by Marriott hotel next to Kelly/Shorts Stadium, while leasing land from the university at an average of $175,000 annually. 

 

In exchange, students in CMU's hospitality services administration classes will have academic opportunities like internships, experiential learning, part-time work, and hiring preferences. Internships also will be available at Lodgco's 16 other properties, including the Hampton Inn in Mt. Pleasant and two Midland hotels. 

 

"Earning a CMU College of Business Administration degree in hospitality with a blend of academic and real-world occupational preparation will provide our graduates with a significant competitive advantage in the job market," says Gary Gagnon, marketing and hospitality services administration faculty member.