The College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CHTM) of the University of the Cordilleras continues to foster community connection, inclusivity, and student development through a series of events held across various public and shared university spaces. These activities promoted accessible learning, social interaction, and cultural enrichment for hundreds of students throughout the academic year.
Celebrating Love and Friendship at Cañao Creativity Hall
On February 14, 2024, the Cañao Creativity Hall served as a vibrant public gathering venue for “Heart’s Day: Sweets and Serenades,” organized by CHTM in partnership with the College Student Council and the League of Tourism Students of the Philippines UC Chapter. The event drew more than 150 student participants who enjoyed interactive activities such as the Harana Segment, icebreaker games, and a KapareWHO social mixer. The space allowed students from different programs to connect, express themselves freely, and strengthen friendships in an open and welcoming environment. The hall’s accessibility and capacity played a key role in creating a comfortable communal space that supported emotional well-being and social cohesion.
Welcoming New Students at the UC Auditorium and CHTM Learning Spaces
The second trimester orientation held on January 19, 2024 gathered over 300 incoming and continuing students from the Hospitality Management and Tourism Management programs. Activities took place in university learning facilities including the UC Auditorium and designated CHTM classrooms. These public-use academic spaces provided an inclusive environment where students learned about Canvas utilization, college policies, and student conduct. With clear pathways for participation and open forums encouraging dialogue, the event supported equal access to information and a smooth transition for all students, including freshmen adapting to university life.
Showcasing Creative Talent at the UC Theater
The UC Theater welcomed first-year students of the College of Teacher Education on August 2, 2024 for the staging of two theatrical productions. The event drew audiences from several colleges including Education and Criminology. The theater functioned as an accessible arts and cultural space where students had the opportunity to perform, express advocacy themes, and appreciate the creative work of their peers. Through this public venue, the university provided an open platform for artistic engagement and intellectual reflection on topics involving youth and elder experiences.
Engaging the UC Community at Open House 2024
Another major public event was Open House 2024 held at the UC Gymnasium on September 12, 2024. Organized by the Marketing Junior Executives, the event welcomed an estimated 500 students across morning and afternoon sessions. The gymnasium’s large, common-access space enabled the setup of booths, interactive games, and information-sharing activities that encouraged student participation. Officers used the venue to connect with attendees, promote inclusivity, and strengthen student organization networks. The open layout, walk-in accessibility, and high foot traffic allowed the event to achieve strong engagement and foster equal opportunities for involvement.
Empowering Future Leaders at the BM General Assembly
The UC Auditorium again served as a key public venue on November 13, 2024 when Business Management students gathered for the BM General Assembly. Around 200 participants attended the event titled “Navigating the Future: Innovation, Leadership, and Sustainability in Business Management.” The auditorium provided a formal yet accessible space for knowledge sharing, leadership development, and community building. Students benefited from an environment conducive to learning and collaboration, reinforcing the value of shared institutional spaces in academic growth.
Impact on the CHTM Community
Across five major events, more than 1,150 students accessed and benefited from the use of key public and shared spaces including the Cañao Creativity Hall, UC Auditorium, UC Gymnasium, UC Theater, and CHTM learning rooms. These venues provided safe, inclusive, and engaging environments for academic programs, cultural activities, leadership development, and community celebrations. Their accessibility contributed to positive student experiences, strengthened social relationships, and enhanced participation across departments.
As CHTM continues to expand its sustainability and community-building initiatives, the responsible and purposeful use of public spaces remains central to creating a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive university environment.
