February 10, 2025
SHL continues to produce thought leadership via research, contributed articles
The thought leadership coming out of the School of Hospitality Leadership continues to be impressive.
Academic Research
“Jenna” Seung Hyun Lee, an associate professor in the SHL, had a very busy close to 2024. Five articles were published in peer-reviewed journals, most with her research partner, SHL Professor Cynthia Deale.
About her research, Lee says it “supports the College’s mission of regional transformation by strengthening regional identity, supporting local businesses, and fostering sustainable tourism development through data-driven insights and strategic recommendations.”
One example of this impact, according to Lee, is her recent study with Deale titled, Consumers’ Perceptions of North Carolina Wines: A Case Study with a Place-Based Focus (2024). Lee says, “this research explores how a sense of place influences branding and tourism. Understanding consumer preferences helps wineries strengthen their brand and attract visitors, boosting the state’s $2 billion wine industry.”
A similar study, Saying “I Do” to a Sustainable Wedding” (2024), examines how wedding planners can incorporate sustainability into events. “By promoting eco-friendly, locally sourced weddings, we support local economic, environmental, and cultural sustainability,” says Lee.
“We translate academic research into real-world applications, helping North Carolina’s industries thrive,” Lee Added. “Through presentations and case studies, we ensure that our research findings directly contribute to regional economic and sustainability strategies.”
Applied Literature Review
Over the years, SHL Director Bob O’Halloran has provided columns to Hotel Executive, an online publication that provides news, insights, and analysis specifically targeted toward hotel owners, operators, senior executives, and other professionals within the hospitality sector.” His submissions appear to be making an impression with the readers. O’Halloran’s columns are now being published on a monthly basis. They are rich in content that can be applied to everyday business decisions.
Recent topics included:
- Tools and Data for Decision Making: Hospitality Metrics & KPIs available.
- Training trends and options, and the methods for optimal learning available for employees and managers.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the hospitality industry for service, efficiency, and product enhancement.
“These columns are written in a way where the readers can not only learn but act on,” said O’Halloran. “We share these articles on SHL’s social media channels so our friends in Eastern North Carolina will have easily accessible resources of information to help them make decisions so their companies and organizations can thrive and sustain.”