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.

Universal Destinations & Experiences and the University of Central Florida have introduced the Universal School of Experience Leadership and Innovation at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management. Supported by a $10 million investment, the new school is designed to prepare future leaders in themed entertainment and immersive experiences by combining creativity, technology, hospitality leadership, and business strategy. The initiative also includes a new Hospitality Technology Lab focused on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, service robotics, AR/VR simulation, and digital twins. The announcement builds on a decades-long partnership between Universal and Rosen College, which has served as a major talent pipeline for the attractions industry through programs like the UCF/Universal Creative Lab and hands-on experiential learning opportunities.

Universal Destinations & Experiences and the University of Central Florida have announced the launch of the Universal School of Experience Leadership and Innovation at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management. Supported by a $10 million investment, the first-of-its-kind school combines immersive experience education with business strategy, operations, and service leadership to help prepare future leaders in themed entertainment. The initiative also includes a new Hospitality Technology Lab where students, faculty, and industry professionals will collaborate on emerging technologies such as service robotics, artificial intelligence, AR/VR simulation, and digital twins. Building on a partnership spanning more than 20 years, the new school further strengthens Rosen College’s role as a major talent pipeline for Universal and the global attractions industry.

Universal Destinations & Experiences and the University of Central Florida have launched the Universal School of Experience Leadership and Innovation at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management, expanding the university’s role in preparing future leaders in immersive entertainment. Supported by a $10 million investment, the initiative combines hospitality leadership, immersive storytelling, and emerging technologies in a first-of-its-kind dual-school model. The partnership also introduces a new Hospitality Technology Lab where students, faculty, and industry professionals will collaborate on innovations such as artificial intelligence, service robotics, AR/VR simulation, and digital twins. The story highlights Rosen College’s longstanding relationship with Universal and its growing influence in developing talent for Orlando’s evolving theme park and attractions industry.

Universal Destinations & Experiences and the University of Central Florida have launched the Universal School of Experience Leadership & Innovation at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management, creating a new pathway for students pursuing careers in themed entertainment and immersive experiences. Backed by a $10 million investment, the initiative will feature a Hospitality Technology Lab focused on emerging technologies such as service robotics, artificial intelligence, AR/VR simulation, and digital twins. The school is designed to connect creative design, technology, and operational leadership while strengthening Orlando’s workforce pipeline for theme parks, resorts, and immersive attractions. The partnership also builds on Rosen College’s growing themed experience programs and industry collaborations, further positioning the college at the center of innovation in hospitality and entertainment education.