TradeWinds Services named Purdue University Northwest’s White Lodging School of Hospitality and Tourism Management as Business Partner of the Year.
Merrillville-based TradeWinds provides services for infants to adults with all abilities and special needs.
Through the university’s hospitality and tourism management program, TradeWinds’ clients received hands-on experience in a restaurant environment. The visiting students practiced hosting, preparing for dining room guests and bussing tables. University students assisted TradeWinds clients, learning about different abilities and fostering an inclusive workspace.
The partnership with TradeWinds was fostered by Kwangsoo Park, College of Business associate dean and School of Hospitality and Tourism Management director, and Pitparnee Stompor, Hospitality and Tourism Management clinical professor.
Park and Stompor accepted the Business Partner of the Year award on behalf of Purdue Northwest during TradeWinds’ annual luncheon.
“This partnership has been invaluable, offering TradeWinds’ clients vital learning opportunities that build confidence and professional skills,” Park said in a press release. “It has also helped our PNW HTM students develop a deeper understanding of inclusivity and the importance of addressing the needs of colleagues of all abilities, ultimately enhancing the experience for everyone.”
Stompor said engaging with the community aligns with PNW’s mission as a metropolitan university.
“By integrating practical experiences with academic learning, the PNW College of Business not only enhances the educational journey of its students, but also makes a meaningful impact on the community,” Stompor said. “It underscores the university’s role in preparing students and community members for real-world challenges, fostering personal growth and making a lasting difference in others’ lives.”
The White Lodging School of Hospitality and Tourism Management is in Purdue Northwest’s College of Business. Students learn about food and beverage management, tourism, club management and event management. The school has classrooms, a beverage lab, kitchen spaces and a restaurant.
