Hospitality Shindig fundraising event to feature Kentucky Derby themed dining experience

NACOGDOCHES, Texas — Stephen F. Austin State University students in the hospitality administration program are hosting the Hospitality Shindig fundraising event from 6 to 9 p.m. April 20 at The Fredonia Hotel in Nacogdoches.

This event will feature a five-course Kentucky Derby themed dining experience and silent auction. Prior to dinner, guests will have the opportunity to participate in a one-hour reception, which includes a cash bar.

The shindig will serve as a fundraiser to support student scholarships, field trips, conferences and faculty development activities.

Students enrolled in a special events production course taught by Dr. Gina Fe Causin, assistant professor, and a catering and special functions course taught by Dr. Donna Fickes, clinical instructor, are running the event. Student responsibilities include event planning and implementation, menu planning, marketing, decorating, providing entertainment, selling tickets, recruiting sponsors and more.

“This activity teaches students the ins and outs of event planning and catering,” Causin said. “Students learn by doing hands-on activities. This event illustrates how teamwork and collaboration are huge parts of success in any endeavor.”

Guests are encouraged to wear fancy hats, bow ties and attire in pastel colors. Tickets cost $50 per person or $400 for a table of eight. To purchase tickets online, visit sfasu.edu/give/hmsevent.

For more information, contact Causin at causingf@sfasu.edu.