UD expands study abroad opportunities

9:32 a.m., Nov. 1, 2004--The University of Delaware and Leeds Metropolitan University in the United Kingdom have joined a partnership that will provide opportunities for students from Leeds to study in UD’s Department of Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Management (HRIM) and UD students to study events management at the UK Centre for Events Management at Leeds.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for students at both institutions,” Fred DeMicco, professor and ARAMARK Chair of HRIM, said of the agreement, which is part of UD’s Study Abroad program. “Our students will be able to study event management through one of the leading programs in this new and exciting discipline. Leeds students will study hotel management at the new UD Marriott Center for Hospitality and Tourism.”

“In addition to its own Marriott hotel, the University of Delaware has particular expertise in hospitality information technology management,” Rai Shacklock, principal lecturer in events management and teacher fellow at the Tourism, Hospitality and Events School at Leeds, said. “It’s a splendid combination, and I’m sure that our students will learn a great deal in their time here.”

Pamela Cummings, associate professor of HRIM, said events management has grown quickly to become one of the most popular segments of the hospitality field.

“The program at Leeds Metropolitan University is renowned for its excellence,” Cummings said. “We are excited to have this opportunity for our students.”

Besides the unique study opportunities and specialized course offerings for students from both universities, the new agreement also presents an opportunity for both groups of students to experience living in another country and culture.

“In 1923, the University of Delaware was the first higher education institution in the United States to offer a study abroad program thanks to Mr. [Pierre S.] Du Pont,” DeMicco said. “Today’s hospitality industry is truly international, and foreign study experiences like this one we’ve arranged with Leeds Metropolitan University are an important part of our students’ education.”

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