UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management will serve as the host site for the International Space University’s 2027 Space Studies Program, bringing hundreds of students, professionals and space industry leaders from around the world to campus for a seven-week interdisciplinary program. The partnership highlights Rosen College’s growing role in space hospitality and education, with Amy Gregory, Rosen College Endowed Chair for Space Tourism Programming and Initiatives, emphasizing that the college’s space tourism and food initiatives align closely with ISU’s interdisciplinary approach. The program will take place at Rosen College from June 21 to August 13, 2027, and will include workshops, team projects, professional networking and opportunities to engage with Central Florida’s commercial space ecosystem.

Rosen College alumnus Alex Williams ’09 is applying the hospitality and operations knowledge he gained through his minor at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management to his work designing commercial spaceflight experiences at Virgin Galactic. As senior manager of program design, Williams helps shape the full passenger experience, incorporating hospitality, food and beverage, preparation and local culture into each spaceflight expedition. His career path, which also includes experience with Disney and themed entertainment, highlights how Rosen College’s hospitality education can provide a foundation for creating memorable experiences in emerging industries.

Rosen College alumnus Doug Akers ’07 has built a more than 20-year career in hospitality operations with Universal Destinations & Experiences, rising to senior vice president of operations after gaining hands-on experience across transportation, attractions, food and beverage, entry operations and special events. His time at UCF’s Rosen College helped him develop the leadership, operations, guest service and strategic thinking skills that shaped his career, while his experiences at Universal allowed him to apply that knowledge across major domestic and international projects. Akers’ career also reflects the impact of Rosen College alumni in leadership roles across the hospitality industry and the college’s continued connection to Universal through the Universal School of Experience Leadership and Innovation.

Rosen College alumna Bella Cortier ’22 has built a successful career by taking advantage of opportunities throughout her time at UCF, from internships and leadership roles to industry networking and mentorship. After first connecting with Rosen College through a high school hospitality summer camp, Cortier became deeply involved in the college community, serving on the Dean’s Advisory Council, Rosen College Leadership Council and other student initiatives while gaining hands-on industry experience. She credits Rosen College with giving her a strong foundation in hospitality, leadership, operations, teamwork and creating meaningful guest experiences. Today, Cortier serves as a senior technical coordinator at Universal Creative and continues to give back by mentoring and speaking with Rosen College students, helping others navigate their own career paths.

Christian Spencer ’23 ’26MS is building his career in Central Florida’s hospitality and entertainment industry, where he now serves as a performance coordinator with Universal Orlando Resort. A graduate of Rosen College’s entertainment management program, Spencer credits his professors, hands-on industry experience and a Rosen College scholarship with helping him turn a childhood passion for theme parks into a professional career. His story highlights the impact of a Rosen College education in preparing students to pursue meaningful careers in one of Central Florida’s signature industries.

A WESH report examines how rising gas prices are influencing summer travel, while highlighting that many families are still choosing to vacation despite higher costs. The story features insights from Alan Fyall, who explains that Orlando continues to attract visitors because of its wide variety of high quality attractions. Fyall also notes that travelers are adapting by staying closer to their destinations once they arrive, rather than cutting trips altogether.

A feature by the USA TODAY Network explores whether there is an ideal time to visit Florida, concluding that the state's year-round attractions, diverse destinations, and strong tourism infrastructure make every season appealing. The article features insights from Alan Fyall, who explains that Florida's ability to continually reinvent its tourism offerings keeps visitation strong throughout the year. Fyall also notes that while seasonal factors like summer heat and hurricane season may influence travel decisions, Florida's infrastructure and wide range of experiences allow visitors to find options that fit nearly any budget or travel style.

When Valentina Mira graduated from UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management in spring 2026 with a bachelor's degree in lodging and restaurant management, she already had a growing business and a passion for entrepreneurship. Mira is the founder of Late Knight Munchiezz, a Central Florida dessert company known for creative sweet treats and social media-worthy creations. Her entrepreneurial journey recently earned her a feature on FOX 35 Orlando's The 407, where she showcased the company's viral "Dot Cakes" and demonstrated the decorating process for viewers. As founder and owner of Late Knight Munchiezz, Mira has combined hospitality knowledge, creativity and business acumen to build a brand that continues to gain attention across Central Florida. FOX 35 highlighted her efforts to bring the trending dessert concept to the local market while sharing her story as a recent UCF graduate and entrepreneur. Mira's success reflects the entrepreneurial spirit of Rosen College graduates who are applying their education in innovative ways and creating new opportunities within the hospitality industry.

A feature in The Athletic examines growing criticism of FIFA’s ticket pricing strategy for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with many fans arguing that the tournament has become increasingly unaffordable. The article explores how dynamic pricing, ticket resale platforms, and the premiumization of live sports have contributed to soaring costs, with some World Cup tickets reaching thousands of dollars. Alan Fyall, professor at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management, explained that while American sports fans have become accustomed to higher prices and entertainment-focused experiences, many are choosing to watch major events from home rather than pay premium ticket costs. Fyall also noted that international travel barriers and high prices could limit attendance from overseas fans, raising questions about whether FIFA’s pricing model may ultimately reduce accessibility to the world’s largest sporting event.