09/16/2025
WE ARE ADDING TO THE SPEAKERS LIST!!!!!!!
Mercyhurst Alumni are slways welcome to speak in our classes!
Welcome Back Hospitality Alumni – Guest Speakers on October 3
The Statler Department of Hospitality Management is pleased to announce and welcome back four distinguished alumni: Anthony “Tony” Prusak ’90, Sam Veneziano ’75, Gary Mills ’80, and Craig Michalek ’93.
Tony Prusak and Sam Veneziano will speak to the Introduction to Hospitality class at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, October 3.
Craig Michalek and Gary Mills will speak to the Purchasing for the Hospitality Industry class at 12:00 noon on Friday, October 3.
Tony brings more than 35 years of experience in hotel sales and marketing, convention center sales, destination management organizations, international group housing, and luxury travel advertising. He currently serves as Business Development Manager for Questex Travel and Hospitality, based in New York City, and is also a proud member of the Mercyhurst University National Alumni Board.
Sam brings decades of leadership experience with Marriott International and now serves as a self-employed hospitality consultant. He resides just outside of Pittsburgh and continues to share his expertise and guidance with the next generation of hospitality leaders.
Gary brings 45 years of experience in the hotel industry, most recently serving as Senior Vice President of Development for Pearlescent Capital. He resides in Coppell, Texas, and has built a distinguished career in hospitality development and leadership.
Craig brings more than 30 years of food and beverage experience in the hospitality industry. For the past 18 and a half years, he has served as Sales Manager with EFD Associates in the Greater Pittsburgh area.
Please join us in welcoming back these four esteemed alumni as they share their expertise and insights with our students during Mercyhurst Homecoming Weekend, October 3–5.