Johnson & Wales University (JWU) launched its new Center for Beverage Education & Innovation, an innovative learning community that aims to bring together the university’s culinary and hospitality strengths with beverage industry partners. Led by faculty, alumni, students and professionals, it will foster collaborative research and learning opportunities toward more robust opportunities in the beverage economy. The center was formally launched on Nov. 17 with an industry roundtable and mini trade show focusing on nonalcoholic beverages and a speaking program led by JWU Providence Campus President Marie Bernardo-Sousa, LP.D. “We’re excited about the future of the center, which will create a venue for internal and external research and development, offer management training opportunities for local beverage professionals and allow us the opportunity to host conferences, competitions and other events to bring the community together,” Bernardo-Sousa said. Michael Sabitoni, Department Chair, Food & Beverage and Travel & Tourism Studies, College of Hospitality Management, said, “Experiential, interdisciplinary education is key here at Johnson & Wales. This center will offer us even more opportunities to give our students hands-on experience.”

Photos courtesy of Johnson & Wales University.