For the fifth time in the last six years, a program offered by Temple University’s School of Tourism and Hospitality Management (STHM) has been recognized as the world’s best.
STHM’s Event Leadership Executive Certificate program earned the 2014 Haas & Wilkerson Gold Pinnacle Award Sept. 29 at the annual International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA) Convention and Expo in Kansas City, Mo.
The accelerated certification program, which can be completed in as quickly as six-to-eight months, is designed for professionals who are looking to grow their credentials in the special events-planning industry.
Since its launch in 2005, STHM’s Event Leadership Executive Certificate program has won the Gold Pinnacle Award six times (2014, 2013, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2006) and has received the Silver Pinnacle Award twice (2012, 2007). The Pinnacle Awards, sponsored by Haas & Wilkerson Insurance, are distributed in 68 different categories and recognize excellence in festival and event promotions.
“It is extremely gratifying that this specialized program continues to be recognized by the International Festival and Events Association, one of the preeminent associations in our industry,” said Dr. Elizabeth Barber, Associate Dean of the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management. “Receiving the Gold Pinnacle Award is a tremendous honor and a demonstration of our reputation among the world’s top schools.”
STHM’s Event Leadership Executive Certificate program differentiates itself from others like it through its distinguished instructors. Industry professionals with more than 20 years experience teach the program, which requires no previous college education. About 90 percent of its enrolled students hold at least a Bachelor’s degree, however and more than 70 percent of its students are already employed in the event-planning industry.
“But that is not a prerequisite,” said Ira Rosen, the program’s director and an Assistant Professor at STHM. “The program caters to those looking to grow their knowledge base and skill set, to either utilize in their companies or to branch out and start their own businesses. Our students come from all levels of event planning, including wedding planning.
“We are proud to give them the base to grow into independent entrepreneurs.”
Rosen, who accepted the award at last month’s conference on behalf of the school, said representatives of domestic and international academic institutions approached him regarding the successful model for STHM’s Event Leadership Executive Certificate program.
“Our reputation is growing,” Rosen said, “and others are taking notice.”