The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff announced that at the commencement in December 2022, Stephanie Smith and Marion Franklin Smith III became the first graduate of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s (UAPB) degree program in hospitality and tourism management. The program prepares students for managerial and high-level supervisory positions in restaurant operations, the tourism industry, event planning, hotel administration, and other operational and administrative roles.
“It was a delight to have these two students as the new program budded and grew,” Dr. Suzzette Goldmon, assistant professor and coordinator for UAPB’s hospitality and tourism management program, said. “They were flexible during the pandemic, yet eager to return to classes and complete their degree programs. Both students worked and were able to manage their time well with classes, assignments, student organization, and campus activities. I am excited they both have agreed to be hospitality program ambassadors and assist with recruiting and programming in the future. They are an awesome inaugural duo for our program.”
Smith said her education at UAPB has allowed her to achieve success in running her own business, “S and S Catering and Events.” In her work, she plans and provides catering services for events such as baby showers, proms, private parties, university alumni events, sorority gatherings, Super Bowl events, and church functions.
“My passion has always been cooking, but I never imagined in my life that I would
pursue a bachelor’s degree in hospitality and tourism management,” she said. “I always had an
interest and desire for this area. My mother was my biggest cheerleader and was the one who
influenced me in choosing this career.”
Marion Franklin Smith III first began studying hospitality and tourism management when he was in high school and studying concurrently through Arkansas State University of the Mid-South in West Memphis.
“At the time, I was the only student in the class,” he said. “This really gave me the one- on-one connection with the industry. I gained hands-on experience at Southland Casino, which sponsored the university’s hospitality program. This is what influenced me to continue my studies in hospitality and tourism management at UAPB.”
