October 20, 2023
The South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association recently invited Dr. Carole Sox to present to over 50 high school ProStart instructors from across the state at the 2023 SC ProStart Leadership Training program. For her presentation, "Possible Pathways after ProStart: Building upon High School Success", Dr. Sox shared information she found through interviewing numerous hiring managers in the culinary and hospitality industry on hiring needs and practices. She also discussed other options available for students, such as the Business Administration degree at Columbia College with a concentration in Hospitality, Tourism and Event Management. "It was an honor to have the opportunity to discuss information about current industry needs and student opportunities with the ProStart instructors," said Dr. Sox. "They are an amazing group of leaders who are dedicated to thoroughly preparing students focused on this dynamic industry." Interestingly, one of her former students was an instructor in the group!
The mission of the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association is to "provide superior value and effective communication by being the voice of the foodservice and lodging industry in government and public relations, educational programs, offering operational benefits, and creating opportunities for member involvement." ProStart is a "two-year, industry-backed culinary arts and restaurant management program for high school students." ProStart programs are found in each state, Washington, DC and the Territory of Guam. Over one million students have participated in this program. Columbia College welcomes students interested in this industry through the Hospitality, Tourism and Event Management concentration within the Business Administration degree program. This growing program includes hands-on application opportunities for students, industry guest lecturers in the classroom, internship opportunities across the state, and industry-experienced professors and adjuncts. Reach out to Dr. Carole Sox at 803-786-3678 or csox@columbiasc.edu to learn more about the Business Administration degree at Columbia College.