L. Robert Payne School of Hospitality and Tourism Management Announces Outstanding Students

Chloe Rogers: Outstanding Undergraduate Student of Hospitality and Tourism Management

Chloe Rogers will work at Four Seasons in Minneapolis upon graduation! This path blends her love for event planning with her passion for hotels and creating unforgettable experiences. 

While at SDSU, she was a member of Alpha Chi Omega, on the board of the MESA (Meetings and Events Student Association, a participant in Intramural Volleyball League, and was selected as a finalist in the She Has a Deal early careerist program, focused on empowering women in hotel ownership and development.

Within her field, she has worked and interned at numerous companies.

“I quickly realized that building authentic relationships is what earns you trust, not your age, title, or background,” Rodgers said.

She highlighted Dr. Mark Testa’s mentorship. His influence and teaching has helped propel Rodgers to a future, successful career in hospitality. “The HTM program encourages involvement and pushes students to step outside their comfort zones early on – something that has prepared me in countless ways for life after college,” she said.

Emma Jeanette Dewan: Outstanding Undergraduate Student of Recreation and Tourism Management

At SDSU, Emma Jeanette Dewan has completed several internships related to surfing and sustainability. She hopes to become a sustainability consultant or director for a surf or luxury resort.

During her time at SDSU, Dewan completed three internships with STOKE Certified as a sustainability consultant. She worked at surf resorts in Fiji, the Gold Coast in Australia, and with Conservation International’s Surf Conservation Program. She also participated in the SDSU Center for Surf Research, Lodging Management Student Association, National Society of Minorities in Hospitality, and Sustainable Tourism Coalition.

My classes have “broadened my understanding of the tourism industry and the impact of tourists globally, and furthered my passion for pursuing a career in this field with a specific interest in cultural sustainability to help preserve indigenous cultures.”

Dewan said that Dr. Jess Ponting’s video on the school website convinced her to commit to SDSU. Ponting eventually offered Dewan her first internship with STOKE in Fiji.

“I am forever grateful that Jess took a chance on me my freshman year, I wouldn’t be where I am without him!” Dewan shared.

Kristen Baxter: Outstanding Hospitality and Tourism Management Graduate Student

Kristin Baxter’s outstanding final project was the creation of “Gather + Host,” a consulting and services company that helps wineries and unique venues unlock the revenue potential of their spaces through private events. From strategic planning and sales support to marketing and staffing, Gather + Host guides owners and operators in transforming underutilized space into profitable, experience-driven destinations. 

“I have always wanted to work for myself within the events industry. I have 20+ years of experience, and this program has given me the tools and assisted me in putting together a blueprint to be able to do that,” Baxter said.

Renee Agsten: Outstanding Master's in Meeting and Event Management Graduate Student

Renee Agsten already has almost four years of experience in the music industry. Her final Organizational Change Project proposed enhancements - both structural and service-oriented - to make the customer experience at popular music venues better. “The primary objective is to encourage leadership to adopt a more attendee-centric approach when planning events and to recommend actionable changes for implementation within the next year,” Agsten said.

Agsten said that the last two years have also challenged her to think more critically and holistically and adopt a better leadership mindset. “ SDSU has equipped me with the strategic tools and frameworks that extend beyond practical work experience, positioning me to elevate my career to the next level,” Agsten said.