UCF’s Rosen College is training students to design space hotels and zero-gravity dining as commercial space tourism becomes more real. Through the Student Spaceflight Experiments Program, students work on food preservation in microgravity (like tofu texture) and create hospitality models for orbital stays. They also collaborate with industry leaders like Blue Origin and Axiom Space to imagine what off-Earth living and dining could look like.

A new article co authored by UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management faculty member Bendegul Okumus offers insight into what Gen Z values most during hotel stays. Drawing on a multi year mystery shopping study of more than 900 Gen Z college students, the research points to convenience, digital ease, and operational consistency as top priorities. Participants emphasized the need for seamless mobile check in, intuitive in room technology, reliable Wi Fi, and flexible policies that support last minute travel patterns. Cleanliness and safety were described as baseline expectations rather than differentiators, while sustainability and authentic local design ranked high in shaping brand perception. The study also found missed opportunities in loyalty engagement and upselling, with fewer than one third of properties promoting programs or personalized add ons. The authors recommend that hotels strengthen service time KPIs, cross train staff for personalized interactions, and integrate feedback from younger travelers into product design and digital strategy to build loyalty for the next decade.

Houston Public Media examined the financial structure behind Hilton Americas-Houston, where workers have been on strike since Sept. 1 for higher wages. Public records revealed Hilton received more than $2.2 million in management fees in 2024, while owner Houston First Corporation reported record profits of $67 million in 2023. UCF’s Amy Gregory, associate professor at Rosen College of Hospitality Management, explained that Hilton’s fee structure tied to revenue-per-available-room is common across the industry and expected to keep rising as recovery continues post-pandemic. Her insights provided context on how hotel performance metrics drive management profits, situating Rosen College in national conversations on hospitality operations and labor dynamics.

Restaurant Dive featured insights from UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management on how operators can navigate the busy holiday dining season. Kevin Murphy, professor of restaurant management at Rosen College, noted that independent restaurants that prioritize both guest experience and operational readiness are best positioned to succeed. Murphy emphasized early staffing evaluations, carefully crafted seasonal menus that balance festive appeal with kitchen feasibility, and strong supplier relationships amid rising food costs and tariff pressures. He also highlighted the importance of forecasting demand and streamlining operations well before Thanksgiving to manage large party orders, off-premise demand, and the overall holiday surge.

In coverage by the Orlando Business Journal, UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management was highlighted for its expertise in the emerging commercial space tourism sector. Amy Gregory, professor at Rosen College, offered perspective on the long-term potential of space travel as Titans Space Industries unveiled plans for a 2029 spaceplane launch and future lunar tourism projects. Gregory noted that while the industry faces challenges, affordability and infrastructure will be key to making space tourism accessible beyond the ultra-wealthy. She added that UCF is already preparing students for this new frontier, with programs designed to train the next generation of professionals who may one day live and work in space.

In coverage by the Orlando Sentinel, Dr. Jorge Ridderstaat of UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management weighed in on Walt Disney World’s newest expansion efforts — including “Cars”-themed attractions and a land devoted to Disney villains. Ridderstaat noted the importance of strategic, phased growth in the face of major competition like Universal’s Epic Universe. He cautioned that the timing and feasibility of a possible fifth gate would depend on numerous economic and social factors, including infrastructure costs, sustainability, and over-tourism. “You don’t want to be the villain in that spectrum,” he remarked. His insight reinforces Rosen College’s role in shaping intelligent discourse on tourism development and industry evolution.

In a recent HuffPost article, Dr. Alan Fyall, Visit Orlando Endowed Chair of Tourism Management and Associate Dean at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management, offered expert insight into the rising costs and common pitfalls of rental car bookings. “Renting a car is frequently that purchase that tourists think about less,” said Fyall, “when in reality it is a purchase that can break the budget.” He emphasized the importance of researching rental insurance, noting that many tourists unnecessarily pay for coverage already provided by their credit cards or personal auto policies. Fyall’s guidance is part of a broader feature aimed at helping travelers avoid avoidable costs — demonstrating Rosen College’s continued leadership in travel and tourism expertise.

Universal Epic Universe is not only transforming Orlando’s tourism landscape but also serving as a living classroom and career launchpad for students at the University of Central Florida. In Travel Weekly, UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management was prominently featured through the insights of Dr. Jorge Ridderstaat, who analyzed the park’s $44 billion economic impact, and Dr. Carissa Baker, who highlighted the future of immersive storytelling in themed entertainment. Baker noted, “We’re in the era of the immersive world,” with Epic exemplifying the next level of sensory and narrative engagement. Additionally, Professor Peter Weishar of UCF’s Themed Experience program praised Epic’s innovation and use of advanced technology. Together, their insights affirm UCF’s central role in shaping the future of theme park design, tourism economics, and immersive guest experiences.

A feature by WFTV Orlando spotlighted UCF’s growing influence in the themed entertainment industry, showcasing how programs across the university—including Rosen College of Hospitality Management—are preparing students for impactful creative roles. While hands-on design experience is central to UCF’s themed experience track, Rosen College professor Jonathon Judy is helping students understand how food can serve as an immersive storytelling element. From visual design to culinary narratives, Rosen College continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of theme park experiences across Central Florida and beyond.

As cultural attractions adopt airline-style dynamic pricing models, expectations from visitors are rising along with ticket costs. In a report by NBC News, Dr. Stephen Pratt, professor at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management, warned that higher prices come with higher stakes. “You’ve invested this money into family time, into creating memories, and you don’t want any service mishaps,” he said, highlighting how pricing models can reshape guest perceptions. His insights reflect Rosen College’s growing influence in shaping national dialogue on the evolving economics of travel and tourism.

As Universal’s Epic Universe draws global attention with its $7 billion launch, regional parks like Busch Gardens Tampa Bay are making moves to stay competitive. In a feature by the Tampa Bay Times, Dr. Carissa Baker, assistant professor at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management, offered expert perspective on the intensifying theme park landscape across Central Florida. With her continued contributions to industry analysis, Dr. Baker reinforces Rosen College’s position as a go-to source for insights into theme park strategy and tourism trends.

In a recent CNBC feature, UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management was cited as a key source for insights into the economic stakes of major theme park expansions. Dr. Jorge Ridderstaat, associate professor at Rosen College, noted that concerns over economic volatility could impact tourist spending just as Universal launches Epic Universe and Disney ramps up its $60 billion experiences investment. His comments reflect Rosen College’s expertise in tracking market behavior and forecasting trends, reinforcing its role as a thought leader in the global tourism and attractions industry.

From hard-to-find light switches to glass-doored bathrooms, a new Washington Post guest column explores the most common frustrations travelers face at hotels. UCF’s Amy Gregory, interim chair of Rosen College’s Foodservice and Lodging Management Department, offers key insights into why some annoyances persist. She explains that while things like swapping out wastebaskets may seem minor, costs can add up fast for hotel operators. “We want to satisfy our guests,” Gregory says, “so they don’t complain, they want to come back again and refer people to us.” The article also highlights quirky design choices — from beds that bruise shins to showers that soak floors — reminding readers that the guest experience is shaped by both form and function.

In a detailed feature by Newsday, UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management was highlighted for its proximity and relevance to the launch of Universal’s Epic Universe. Dr. Carissa Baker, assistant professor at Rosen College, remarked on the park’s impact, stating it’s “pretty impressive to see,” especially for students preparing to become the industry’s next wave of designers and leaders. With its immersive storytelling and ambitious design, Epic Universe is not only transforming Orlando’s tourism landscape—it’s also providing real-time inspiration and opportunity for Rosen College students located just across the street.

As Universal’s Epic Universe officially opens, students and alumni from UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management are celebrating their direct contributions to its creation. In a feature by WESH 2 News, Dr. Carissa Baker highlighted how Rosen’s theme park and attraction management program launched just in time for the park’s development, giving students real-world learning just steps from campus. Through initiatives like the UCF/Universal Creative Lab, students gained rare behind-the-scenes experience and industry access. Graduates have gone on to fill major roles at Epic Universe, demonstrating Rosen College’s pivotal role in shaping the next generation of themed entertainment professionals.

As Universal launches its $7 billion Epic Universe theme park, the global spotlight is on Orlando's growing theme park rivalry. In an in-depth feature by the Los Angeles Times, Dr. Carissa Baker, assistant professor of theme park and attraction management at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management, commented on Universal’s momentum: “They’re highly encouraging their theme park sector right now.” Her insights reinforce Rosen College’s ongoing leadership in preparing students for the evolving themed entertainment industry and contributing expert analysis on one of the world’s most competitive tourism landscapes.

The launch of Universal’s Epic Universe is not only reshaping the theme park landscape—it’s also strengthening the role of UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management in global tourism conversations. As featured in FOX 35 Orlando, the story draws on insights from Rosen College, recognizing the institution’s continued influence in preparing hospitality leaders amid rising industry competition. With Orlando now viewed as the world’s top theme park hub, Rosen College remains central to shaping the workforce and thought leadership driving this unprecedented growth.

The opening of Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe is more than a tourism milestone—it’s a career catalyst for students at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management. In coverage by FOX 35 Orlando, students shared how the park’s proximity offers unmatched, real-world experience and access to internships and jobs that align with their career goals. As the theme park industry evolves, Rosen College continues to serve as a direct pipeline for talent, preparing future leaders through hands-on education and industry partnerships.

UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management was spotlighted by WKMG ClickOrlando for its vital role in preparing the talent behind Universal Orlando’s newest theme park, Epic Universe. Located within the “Epic neighborhood,” Rosen College has contributed graduates to a wide range of creative and operational roles through its innovative themed experience, attraction management, and culinary programs. As one of the first of its kind in the nation, Rosen’s curriculum continues to serve as a pipeline for the themed entertainment industry, further embedding the college into the fabric of Central Florida’s hospitality and tourism landscape.

WESH 2 News offered a deep dive into the newly opened Epic Universe, Universal Orlando’s most ambitious theme park to date. Throughout the multi-year construction journey, Rosen College of Hospitality Management has remained closely connected to the project. Rosen students and faculty have tracked its development, with many securing internships and career opportunities tied to the park’s launch. The coverage reflects how the park’s arrival continues to reinforce Rosen College’s role in shaping and supporting Central Florida’s dynamic hospitality and tourism industry.

The opening of Universal’s Epic Universe is generating excitement among students at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management, who see the new park as a major opportunity for hands-on learning and career advancement. Featured in Spectrum News 13, students like Arthur De Paula and John Koprowicz, president of the college’s Future Theme Park Leaders Association, expressed how the park’s proximity enhances their education and job prospects. Dr. Jessica Wickey, director of Rosen’s internship program, emphasized how students can immediately apply classroom concepts through internships and careers at Epic Universe, underscoring the college’s integral role in preparing future leaders of the theme park industry.

As anticipation builds for the May 22 grand opening of Universal Epic Universe, hiring efforts are in full swing. Earlier this year, Universal Orlando hosted a major hiring event at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management, offering students the opportunity to interview and secure positions on the spot. The event showcased the college’s strong industry ties and its ongoing role as a talent pipeline for Central Florida’s growing theme park sector.

Dr. Carissa Baker, assistant professor of theme park and attraction management at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management, was quoted in the Los Angeles Times discussing Universal’s aggressive expansion strategy with the launch of Epic Universe. She noted that Universal is “highly encouraging their theme park sector right now,” reflecting on how the company is reshaping the competitive landscape in Orlando. Her insights illustrate Rosen College’s thought leadership in analyzing theme park trends and industry dynamics.

Dr. Carissa Baker, assistant professor at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management, was featured in Travel Weekly commenting on the anticipated impact of Universal Orlando’s newest theme park, Epic Universe. Highlighting the scale and uniqueness of the project, she emphasized that the addition further cements Orlando’s position as the theme park capital of the world. Her insights reflect Rosen College’s continued influence on conversations around tourism growth and development in Central Florida.

Dr. Robin Back of UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management will present a unique wine tasting experience using Jelly Belly jelly beans at the Orlando Science Center’s Science and Wine event on April 26, 2025. The interactive session will demonstrate how aromas and flavors influence wine perception, highlighting how food pairings can enhance or detract from a wine’s taste. Back, a fourth-generation winemaker from South Africa, uses jelly beans to teach participants how our senses of taste and smell work together, offering a fun, educational approach to wine appreciation.

As cruise travel surges to a record high in 2025 with 19 million Americans expected to set sail, health experts warn of a parallel rise in norovirus outbreaks aboard cruise ships. Despite the increased risk, experts like UCF’s Dr. Jessica Wickey Byrd affirm cruises remain safe and enjoyable if passengers take precautions such as regular handwashing. The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program faces staffing cuts, potentially hindering outbreak monitoring during peak season. Experts stress proper hygiene, surface disinfection, and staying home if symptomatic, while recommending trip insurance for added protection.

Dr. Cynthia Mejia, along with co-authors Hannah Crandell and Dr. Mindy Shoss, published a research-backed article in Harvard Business Review exploring how hospitality businesses can successfully integrate service robots. Supported by UCF’s Rosen College Dean’s Research Clusters Program, the study highlights key strategies for adoption, including staff training, physical space planning, and strong management support.

Dr. Alan Fyall, Visit Orlando Endowed Chair of Tourism Marketing at Rosen College, spoke with Insider about the growing challenges of overtourism. As global travel demand surges, Dr. Fyall emphasized the need for destinations to manage visitor numbers and timing to protect both natural resources and quality of life for residents, noting that without proper limits, “you will ruin the resource so much that there won’t be anything to go see.”

Universal Orlando hosted a major hiring event at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management, drawing over 550 students eager to explore job and internship opportunities—including roles at the highly anticipated Epic Universe. Universal representatives conducted on-the-spot interviews and hires, showcasing their commitment to supporting student career growth through this annual partnership event.

After the financial crisis of 2008, the value of the Icelandic krona tanked, along with the Iceland Stock Exchange. Thousands lost their homes and unemployment skyrocketed. Two years later, the eruption of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano disrupted air travel to Europe and caused more problems for the already struggling country — but it also drew international awareness to Iceland. "Tourism's a quick win for many of these places," said Alan Fyall, the Visit Orlando endowed chair of tourism marketing at the University of Central Florida's Rosen College of Hospitality Management who studies sustainable tourism, said of countries with struggling economies. "Tourism can be a very, very powerful economic and social force for good. There's no question. However, it's like everything — it's how you do it," he said.

Dr. Robin Back, associate professor at Rosen College, joined Central Florida Public Media’s Engage to share insights on the science behind taste and why people love or dislike chocolate—just in time for Valentine’s Day. He discussed how genetics and psychology influence flavor preferences, contributing to the $2.5 billion Americans are expected to spend on candy this year.

Rosanna Maietta, President & CEO of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), recently released a heartfelt statement following the death of Harris Rosen, the visionary founder and president of Rosen Hotels & Resorts. Maietta expressed deep admiration for Rosen’s remarkable contributions to the hospitality sector, highlighting his dedication to excellence, innovation, and community service. “Harris Rosen was an inspirational figure and a shining example of the passion and drive that hoteliers need to succeed. His love for the industry made him the largest independent hotelier in Florida, but he showed us the true meaning of hospitality through his philanthropic work,” said AHLA President & CEO Rosanna Maietta. “His generous donation to the University of Central Florida built the Rosen College of Hospitality Management, which was just ranked best in the nation for the fifth consecutive year for its hospitality management and tourism program. Harris left an indelible mark on this industry and its people that will be felt for generations. We will miss him.”

Cynthia Mejia has seen the local hospitality industry grow tremendously since she joined the University of Central Florida in 2013. Mejia, dean of UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management, witnessed its twice-a-year career fairs grow to more than 100 U.S. companies. The ratio of jobs to students is six-to-one and the school places as many as 98% of its students in jobs. “That’s a reason students come here, because they feel like they will have a killer job. Parents like that, too,” she told Orlando Business Journal.

The University of Central Florida’s (UCF) Rosen College of Hospitality Management has been ranked the top hospitality program in the U.S. by ShanghaiRanking for the fourth consecutive year while placing top five globally. The Rosen College holds renowned distinctions for serving as a pipeline for hospitality talent, with many graduates going on to serve in administrative or corporate roles in some of the world’s biggest entertainment and hospitality companies, like Disney and Universal. An oft-lauded feature of the college’s program is its requirement for each student to complete three internships before graduation, ensuring practical industry experience.

The Rosen College of Hospitality within the University of Central Florida has been recognized once again. The school was ranked top five worldwide in the ShanghaiRankings’ 2022 list, which includes 500 top universities. This is the third time Rosen College’s hospitality program was ranked No. 1 in the nation and among the top five in the world.

Now, the University of Central Florida (UCF) is starting a $4.5 million research project that educators believe will help the next time a pandemic strikes. The research is a collaboration of faculty members across UCF with a wide range of expertises. Their effort brings together professors from UCF’s medical school and the hospitality and engineering colleges plus other areas. “It is very difficult to prevent pandemics, but what we can do is we can help communities be better prepared,” said UCF hospitality professor Robertico Croes, who is helping lead the project.