HTM 323 & Laughfest

The purpose of HTM 323 (Festival and Special Events Management) is to prepare students for careers in hospitality and tourism management by offering the opportunity to put academic theory into practice. One activity of the class is to assist Gilda's Club staff by offering extra support in preparation for their annual feel-good festival, Laughfest. Laughfest is a city-wide, "seriously funny" 10-day comedy festival that celebrates laughter for the health of it. The students benefit from the course by gaining experience with planning and executing festival activities. The students develop skills in leadership, event management, customer service, marketing, and professional communication. Gilda's Club benefits from the course by having a team of highly motivated aspiring event coordinators for Laughfest. They also offer a nonprofit perspective from which students can learn and gain experience.