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B M & T ••• September/October 2024 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 35 Students will explore various aspects of hotel management, design, and guest experience to develop a comprehensive plan for a dream hotel. Key academic elements include Strategy, feasibility, and an industry-relevant approach; Creativity, a unique and captivating design; Use of Resources, NABHOOD industry professionals' supplied materials and exhibitors; and Overall Group Presentation: teamwork, preparation, and organization of materials. The conference was a perfect learning lab for a dynamic, interactive space designed to enhance educational experiences by providing hands-on, practical learning opportunities. It typ- ically focuses on experiential learning, where students or par- ticipants engage in activities that allow them to apply theoreti- cal knowledge in a real-world or simulated context. "This has been an amazing opportunity for our students. What was most impressive was the students' access to some of the most influential professionals in the hospitality industry. They are sitting in the same space and can engage in meaning- ful conversations with the best hoteliers, developers, entrepre- neurs, and other leaders in the industry. The Hotel Development Project built into the student conference expe- rience is a tremendous exercise that helps students build con- nections with other students and allows them to expand their knowledge about the various aspects of hotel development. They get to flex their "creative and analytical" muscles while seeking advice and guidance from professionals involved in every aspect of the hotel business. Outstanding" said Dr. Debra Blair, Professor of Instruction, Director of Organizational Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion - Temple University School of Sport Tourism and Hospitality Management. This methodology was launched during the 28th Annual International African American Hotel Ownership & Investment Summit & Trade Show. Our Business Lab approach used case studies, simulations, market research, financial analysis, and business strategy development. BENEFITS OF A LEARNING LAB Enhanced Understanding: By applying concepts in a practi- cal setting, participants gain a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the material. Skill Development: Participants develop practical skills and problem-solving abilities directly applicable to real-world situ- ations. Increased Engagement: The interactive nature of learning labs fosters greater engagement and motivation among partic- ipants. Collaborative Learning: Opportunities for teamwork and collaboration help build communication and interpersonal skills. "Congratulations to the NABHOOD student education committee! The case study project demonstrated hard work and dedication to enhancing student engagement. To comple- ment the NABHOOD presenters, the case study provided real-time knowledge that students could implement. Intentionality is everything said Victor B. Younger, M.Ed, Director of Diversity and Inclusion Office of Student Services, The Nolan School of Hotel Administration SC Johnson College of Business Students were given the assignment to create a 5-slide presentation lasting 10 minutes over the course of three days. The slides must cover the hotel concept and its loca- tion and brand, food and beverage offerings, hospitality financial key performance indicators, and unique ameni- ties. Three teams were formed, with each team member tak- ing on a specific role: Hotel Developer, Designer, Food & Beverage Lead, Rooms Lead, Revenue Management Lead, and General Manager. Five judges assessed different aspects of the students' Hotel Development Case Study Competition, such as pres- entation quality, research depth, business viability, design, operational planning, and team collaboration. They used a clear rubric or set of criteria to score the teams and provid- ed constructive feedback to help the students develop and enhance their skills in hospitality management. THE WINNER: THE STAGE BY MARRIOTT