VSU Department of Hospitality Management students will gain practical experience in a professional setting at the Hotel Petersburg.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 11, 2022

Contact: Michelle Burchett, Content Manager/Writer & Editor, 804-524-6966, mburchett@vsu.edu

ETTRICK, Va.—Dr. Robert N. Corley III, interim dean of Virginia State University College of Agriculture and vice provost for Academic and Student Affairs, proudly announced Friday the university’s partnership with Retro Hospitality in Richmond. The announcement came as VSU celebrated Home Coming with its alumni demonstrating that indeed, “Greater Happens Here.”  

The Department of Hospitality Management takes a holistic approach to preparing students for a post-graduate career. Theoretical and professional development is augmented by applied learning and practical experience.

“We are excited to partner with Retro Hospitality to enable our students to hone their skills in a professional work environment and to develop valuable industry connections that will enhance their professional development and career opportunities,” said Dr. Berkita Bradford, chair of the Department of Hospitality Management. “We are also delighted to be part of the revitalization of Old Town Petersburg.”

Corley III, credits Cooper, Bradford and the Hospitality Management faculty for cultivating this dynamic partnership to enhance student opportunities, experiential learning, and workforce readiness.

“Providing these types of experiences both inside and outside of the classroom is critical to Virginia State University producing the next generation of culturally-responsive transformational leaders in the hospitality industry,” said Corley III.

A panelist of alumni who have risen to great heights in the hospitality industry or transitioned from the industry into academia unanimously attributed their successes to their personal goals, work ethic and resiliency, and the professional experience and networking opportunities hospitality internships afforded them.

 "We are incredibly proud to partner with Virginia State University on this hospitality operations program,” said Paul Cooper, CEO of Richmond-based Retro Hospitality. “Expanding and strengthening Virginia's hospitality workforce development is a guiding principle for Retro Hospitality and this partnership is another step toward that goal. We are excited to provide and enhance student learning opportunities at the soon-to-open Hotel Petersburg and for the entire Virginia Hospitality industry." 

This partnership will benefit VSU students and will also positively impact the local communities and regional economies as these students become leaders in the hospitality industry. Indeed, “Greater Happens Here.”

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