Nemacolin & WVU: Building the Future of Hospitality

The Future of Hospitality Through Education and Real-Life Experience

Nestled in the Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania, Nemacolin is more than a luxury resort with five-star, five-diamond accolades. It is a place where dreams take shape, where magic meets mentorship, and where future hospitality leaders find inspiration and opportunity. One of the most transformative forces behind that momentum is the resort’s growing relationship with West Virginia University (WVU) — a partnership rooted in education, elevated by innovation, and strengthened by shared values.

From its generous financial contributions to the university to its hands-on leadership programs and strategic industry integration, Nemacolin’s investment at the university has redefined what higher education in hospitality and tourism can look like. The result is a talent pipeline that benefits WVU students and Nemacolin associates while shaping the future of the entire industry.

A Bold Investment in Hospitality’s Future

In 2024, Nemacolin made headlines with a multi-million-dollar gift to WVU, funding the Hardy Family Hospitality and Tourism Program and launching a new chapter for the university’s John Chambers College of Business and Economics. Named for the resort’s visionary ownership, the program formalized years of informal partnership and helped catalyze the creation of the Nemacolin Hospitality Innovation and Technology Lab — a dynamic learning environment that immerses students in real-world problem-solving.

At that time, Maggie Hardy, owner and CEO of Nemacolin shared, “At Nemacolin, I’m passionate about nurturing the next generation of hospitality leaders. Our partnership with West Virginia University’s Hardy Family Hospitality and Tourism Management program is a vital step in that journey.” She went on to add, “This isn’t just an investment in the future of these students, it’s a promise of a brighter future, infinite opportunities and the building blocks of a dream that’s now more of a reality.”

At WVU, the program’s momentum is clear. With a focus on guest-centric service, operational excellence, and strategic leadership, the curriculum blends academic rigor with experiential learning. The Nemacolin Lab, in particular, offers students a simulated hospitality environment where they can test solutions, interface with resort executives, and innovate in real time, and it boasts a 100 percent placement rate, where every student employed with the lab in 2024 and 2025 secured a job, internship, or graduate school placement, showcasing the strength of the real-world learning environment.

Frank DeMarco, teaching associate professor of Hospitality and Tourism Management, believes the shared values referenced by Hardy have been instrumental in developing the relationship between WVU and Nemacolin. In an interview for WVUToday, he said of Nemacolin, “This is a large resort that has a family feel and truly cares about supporting and developing our WVU students into leaders. Every student who has interned at Nemacolin has talked about how much they have learned, how the staff truly cares about them, supports them and makes them feel part of the culture.”

Real People, Real Stories: WVU Alumni at Nemacolin

Carson Beans serves Nemacolin as the resort’s university relations manager. She graduated several years ago from WVU, and worked at Nemacolin in the Human Resources Department during her time as a student. Now integrally involved in the bridge between universities, recruitment, the resort’s interns, and the associates hired as part of the Accelerated Leadership Development Program (ALDP), she says of the WVU partnership, “I see our partnership with WVU as a catalyst for redefining what hospitality education can look like when academia and industry work hand-in-hand, both in and outside of the classroom. Over the years, we’ve built meaningful relationships with faculty and students, giving them the chance to mentor, coach, and create opportunities that prepare them for life after graduation.”

Beans has witnessed the transformation that happens when students move from the classroom into Nemacolin’s vibrant environment: “Through internships, leadership programs, and hands-on experiences at Nemacolin, we bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world operations. We open our doors so students can immerse themselves in our day-to-day, helping them connect the dots between what they learn in class and what it takes to succeed in the field.” As a part of Beans’ role in the Human Resources department at the resort, she was integral to Nemacolin hosting more than 30 college interns during the summer of 2025, with the majority working at the resort by way of WVU.

One of Beans’ most memorable moments was receiving a text from WVU alumna Emily Eckenrode after a nerve-wracking interview: “I GOT THE JOB!” the text said. “It stopped me in my tracks,” Beans recalled. “In that moment, I felt the full weight of the ‘why’ behind my work. It’s not just about filling positions, it’s about walking alongside someone on their journey, watching their potential unfold, and knowing that the opportunities, coaching, and experiences we provided helped her step confidently into her dream role.”

Beyond funding and facilities, the true heart of this partnership lives in the stories of WVU alumni who now call Nemacolin home. From recent graduates to long-tenured leaders, these Mountaineers exemplify how education and opportunity can converge to create something extraordinary. Below, four WVU graduates share their journeys from campus to career — stories of passion, perseverance, and the powerful magic of saying yes to opportunity.

Emily Eckenrode: Building Bridges from Classroom to Career

Current Role: Hospitality Project Manager
WVU Major: Hospitality & Tourism Management, Minor in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Resources

“I chose WVU specifically for the hospitality program,” says Emily Eckenrode, who graduated as part of the first cohort in the Hardy Family Hospitality and Tourism Program. Her resume reads like a roadmap for rising talent: recreation operations intern, conference and catering intern, ALDP cohort member, and now, hospitality project manager.

Eckenrode credits her journey to both her academic community and Nemacolin’s welcoming culture. “Because of Team Nemacolin and the resort culture, I chose to continue with a second internship, enter the ALDP after graduation, and finally step into a permanent position. None of this would have been possible without that initial push from Professor Frank DeMarco and the partnership between WVU and Nemacolin.”

For Eckenrode, the most meaningful part of her work is the ability to inspire future talent. She says, “Seeing the new classes of interns, ALDP cohort members, and WVU students working on projects come through different areas of the resort is another influential and rewarding part of being on the team. It shows that the resort values education, growth, and leadership development.”

Her advice to future WVU students? “Make a connection to any associate that you partner with through WVU projects. Being a WVU graduate at Nemacolin is like wearing a badge of honor, especially knowing that they are investing in your development as a hospitality leader.”

Wesley Christy: Shaping Experiences Through Entertainment

Current Role: Activities Entertainment Supervisor
WVU Major: Hospitality & Tourism Management

For Wesley Christy, hospitality was not always the plan. But after transferring into the program at WVU, an unexpected visit from a Nemacolin team member set his path in motion. “Carson Beans came to talk to my class, and I raised my hand and asked about the internship. A few weeks later, I received a call to set up an interview, and shortly after, I was offered the position to be an intern.”

Now a full-time supervisor at The Peak, Christy leads a team that brings energy and creativity to the guest experience. “The most rewarding experience that I have had at Nemacolin is the ability to create and grow a program and team to be future leaders and entertainers and creating lifetime memories for our members and guest while maintaining an elevated luxury experience.”

Reflecting on his WVU education, Christy sees clear connections. “The coursework within the Hardy Family Hospitality and Tourism Management Program has prepared me for my current role by applying guest service techniques, planning, research, and public speaking and presentation skills in my day-to-day job.”

And for students considering Nemacolin? “DO IT!” he says. “You will learn so many different things about every single aspect of hospitality in one location. Don’t be scared to ask questions, connect with others, and take the chance to learn something outside of your normal routine.”

Bryn Dineen: From Sustainable Tourism to Transformational Training

Current Role: Learning and Development Specialist
WVU Major: Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Resources (Emphasis: Sustainable Tourism)

For Bryn Dineen, a single tourism class at WVU set everything in motion. “I planned to shadow a hotel in Morgantown [West Virginia] for a project, but Professor DeMarco recommended Nemacolin. At first, I was hesitant — balancing full-time work made the idea of a full-day trip challenging. However, I’ll never forget the moment I arrived at The Chateau and felt instantly transported into another world. During my visit, I attended an operations meeting, connected with inspiring leaders, and left with such a strong impression that I immediately applied for an internship … ultimately launching a career that has far exceeded anything I could have imagined!”

That visit led to an internship, then to the ALDP, and now to a role in Learning and Development. Dineen plays a key part in onboarding, training, and team development across lodging and professional skills. Her proudest moments include helping Nemacolin achieve the AAA Five-Diamond status and implementing a property-wide training checklist for the Housekeeping Department.

“I’m incredibly proud to be part of a resort that not only prioritizes continued learning but also actively creates opportunities for every associate to grow, develop, and reach their full potential,” she says.

Her advice to current students? “Be open, be willing, be hands-on!” she says. “There are some incredible internship opportunities at Nemacolin that I highly recommend exploring to get an authentic taste of what the resort has to offer. Connecting with WVU alumni who are part of the Nemacolin team is also a great way to gain insight — we’re always excited to see fellow Mountaineers thrive.”

Kory Young: Inspired by the Past, Leading into the Future with Vision

Current Role: President of Nemacolin
WVU Major: History

Kory Young’s journey is a testament to growth, grit, and the unexpected paths that hospitality can offer. “My journey began behind the bar as a bartender, and from there, I’ve had the opportunity to grow through a variety of roles — manager, director, general manager of Falling Rock, and vice president of resort operations. Most recently, I was honored to be promoted to president. It’s been an exciting ride, and I’m truly grateful to be part of such a dynamic and passionate team,” he shares.

Though his WVU degree was in history, Young says the skills he gained were directly applicable. He notes, “My educational journey at West Virginia University was an incredibly formative time in my life. I majored in history, which taught me how to think critically, understand different perspectives, and appreciate the bigger picture — skills that have been invaluable throughout my career. While my degree wasn’t directly tied to hospitality, it helped shape my curiosity, work ethic, and passion for connecting with people. After graduating, I was looking for an opportunity to grow, and that path led me to Nemacolin.”

As president of Nemacolin, Young now helps guide the very partnership that helped launch so many careers. ” It fills me with pride to see Nemacolin carrying on the legacy of WVU through such a close and impactful partnership. Being able to give back in this way, and to help bridge the gap between education and real-world experience, is something that truly inspires me every day.”

One standout memory: leading the Falling Rock team to Forbes Five-Star designation. “That recognition wasn’t just about luxury — it was a testament to the relentless hard work, passion, and commitment of an exceptional team striving for excellence every single day.”

His message to students? “If you’re serious about building a career in this industry, there’s no better place to start than Nemacolin. The proximity to campus makes it incredibly accessible, and the opportunity to work alongside some of the best talent in hospitality is something truly special. At Nemacolin, you’re not just filling a role, you’re stepping into a culture of excellence, creativity, and continuous growth.”

The Path Forward: Innovation, Opportunity, and Real Life Magic

The partnership between Nemacolin and West Virginia University continues to evolve, offering even more immersive experiences for students through capstone projects, resort-based research, mentorship, and more. Whether it’s through internships, externships, or as an ALDP cohort, students gain access to a living laboratory for innovation in luxury service.

As Carson Beans reflects, Nemacolin is more than a place to learn, “… it’s truly a living classroom,” where WVU students “are not just shadowing, they’re part of the team.” This mindset is paired with a culture of continuous improvement, with feedback from students, faculty, and industry partners helping refine and elevate the program each year.

More than a corporate alliance or philanthropic gesture, this collaboration represents a shared belief in the power of hospitality to change lives. From the guest experience to the classroom and back again, the ripple effects are undeniable.

As Nemacolin continues to grow, one thing remains certain: the future of hospitality will be shaped not just by grand ideas, but by great people. And many of them will arrive with a Mountaineer heart to which they’ll add a Pearl pin and a Nemacolin name badge. Adventure awaits at Nemacolin!

When asked what else he’d like readers of The Nemacolin Times to know, President Kory Young added one final thought: “Let’s go, Mountaineers!”