Five Years Strong: S.T.E.P. Marks a Milestone

S.T.E.P. launched in September with foundational training in dining and professional etiquette. Students heard from Adam Saks, Chief Operating Officer of Cannon Beach/Revel Surf, who brought 20 years of hospitality expertise and emphasized the importance of building meaningful connections and presenting yourself professionally.

In October, the program expanded to downtown Mesa. Students met with Jarrad Bittner, director of the Idea Museum, then explored its interactive, sensory-rich exhibits. Afterward, General Manager Vanessa Gonzales—an MFA board member—guided them through the Mesa Convention Center, which was hosting UwU Con at the time. Students had the unique opportunity to connect with event founders and tour the Mesa Amphitheatre before enjoying lunch at the newly opened Neon Garden at The Post, all properties under Gonzales’s oversight.

Most recently, students visited Queen Creek Olive Mill to learn about agritourism and Mesa’s Fresh Foodie Trail, completing an Olive 101 class. The day concluded with a tour of Arizona Athletic Grounds led by Lance Fite, Visit Mesa’s VP of Sports Sales, and AAG’s Sports Facility & Field Director, Matt Evans.