Madison Reporter

Nat Mason, a standout student at Madison College, has been accepted into the Student Educational Program of the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP). Mason, a Hospitality Management student, is one of only ten students selected nationwide and one of the few two-year college students to receive this honor.

The NCBMP program is designed to attract students pursuing careers in all segments of the hospitality industry, offering educational sessions, networking opportunities, and scholarships to support their academic and professional growth. The conference will be held from November 13-16, 2024, in Birmingham, Alabama.

Mason will also receive support from Allison Aguilar Bultman, a Convention Sales Manager at Destination Madison, who will attend the conference and serve as a mentor during the event. This partnership underscores the collaborative spirit and dedication to student success at Madison College.

“Nat’s acceptance into this prestigious program is a testament to their hard work and potential, and we are thrilled to celebrate this significant milestone in their academic journey,” says Dr. Lynea LaVoy, Madison College Faculty and Director of Hospitality Management.

Nat Mason demonstrates their customer service skills as the front desk supervisor at the AC Hotel in downtown Madison.

In an interview with Nat Mason:

Q: How will you take advantage of being part of Student Educational Program of the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals and what would you like to learn?

A: "The thing I'm most excited about is being able to network with other BIPOC hospitality leaders. In my three or so years being in the industry, I've met very few people of color who are making their way in the industry. I think it's important to have representation of all types because, in the industry, you will be catering to all sorts of people and having a wide range of understanding different people is incredibly beneficial. I'd like to learn more about the different routes I can take within the industry and attend some leadership panels."

Q: How did you get interested in the hospitality industry and what do you like about it?

A: "When I initially entered the industry, it wasn't a career path for me; it was just a job. My general manager at the first hotel I worked at actually found me when I was working at Spirit Halloween. We had just chatted a bit while we were waiting for the store to open and my shift to start. He was impressed with my customer service skills despite that I wasn't on the clock; he gave me his business card. I sent him an email a couple days later and my journey began.

I love being able to connect with guests. My first hotel was an extended stay meaning that we would have guests for long periods of time. Fostering relationships with them was one of my favorite things. I'm leaning more into sales and events coordination now; I'm excited to share Madison and my hotels with people coming into Wisconsin."

Q: What are your favorite classes at Madison College?

A: "I don't know if I necessarily have a favorite class; I've enjoyed all my courses in Hospitality Management program. However,I love working with Madison College instructor Dr.Lynea Lavoy.She's been an inspiration for me continue education make impact within hospitality world."

Mason elaborated on their current position:

"I am Front Office Supervisor AC Hotel Downtown near State Capitol.I love dynamics team second family there.I also encouragement explore different avenues besides front desk.Done some work Events Coordinator reason want explore career path more."

Regarding future plans after graduation:

"Ideally,I position working Events Coordination.Help set up wedding blocks other incoming events hotel working.Recently spent day Destination interested taking Events Coordination larger scale bring events not just hotel but all Madison."

Nat Mason joined program director Dr.Lynea LaVoy center student Kate Ludgate left Spring 2024 Wisconsin Women Lodging meeting Edgewater.