ESU Residential College Visits Blue Mountain Resort

COBM Students Visit Blue Mountain

Posted by: Elizabeth Richardson on February 4, 2026, No Comments

On January 28, students from East Stroudsburg University’s College of Business and Management’s Residential College Program visited Blue Mountain Resort, a premier winter sports destination in the heart of the Lehigh Valley, for an immersive experiential learning opportunity.

During the visit, students participated in an exclusive snowmaking tour and technical workshop, where they gained insight into the processes, technologies, and facility management practices that support large-scale snowmaking operations. The experience provided a behind-the-scenes look at the operational complexity required to maintain a successful mountain resort.

Students also engaged in a leadership panel discussion with Blue Mountain Resort’s executive team. Panelists shared perspectives on leadership development, business strategy, sales and marketing processes, event and wedding planning operations, and the use of business intelligence. The discussion emphasized how data integration and predictive analytics support decision-making across resort operations.

In conjunction with the visit, the College of Business and Management launched a new work-based learning initiative titled “Sustainable Hospitality Operations Through Data” in the department of hospitality, recreation, and tourism management. This initiative integrates applied industry-based learning into the HRTM 100: Fundamentals of Data Analytics curriculum, reinforcing classroom concepts through real-world application.

To conclude the experience, students participated in ski and snowboarding instruction and enjoyed additional time exploring the resort’s facilities.

“This visit exemplifies the ESU’s commitment to experiential learning by connecting students with industry leaders and providing hands-on exposure to hospitality and business management in practice,” said Sylvester Williams, dean of the College of Business and Management.

Learn more about ESU’s College of Business and Management by contacting Williams at (570) 422-3589 or email swilliams@esu.edu.