Niagara University’s student chapter of the Club Management Association of America (CMAA) was once again named Student Chapter of the Year by the association at its World Conference and Club Business Expo, which was held Feb. 17-21 in Anaheim, California.
It marks the 14th time in its 16-year history that the NU chapter has been recognized as the best in the country.
This prestigious honor recognizes the exceptional efforts the chapter has made throughout the academic year, from fostering student engagement and leadership development to supporting CMAA’s mission in creative and meaningful ways.
In recognition of this achievement, the chapter will receive a $1,000 grant from The Club Foundation, which may be applied toward registrations for either the 2025 National Student Education Conference (NSEC) or the 2026 CMAA World Conference and Club Business Expo.
The annual award is based on a series of factors, including the number and variety of educational programs offered, member employment and internships in clubs, membership growth, and attendance at professional events.
To earn the top spot, students demonstrated their dedication to the private club industry by participating in summer internships, externships, and weekly club meetings. Students also participated in the Idea Fair and Shark Tank competitions to encourage the creativity and public speaking skills necessary to navigate the industry. These opportunities allow members to enhance their field knowledge and build the professionalism required for their future endeavors.
“Our students are held to the same expectations and standards of private club managers who are currently working in the profession,” said Brandi Guerinot, dean of Niagara’s College of Hospitality, Sport, and Tourism Management. “Receiving this honor again reaffirms the industry’s viewpoint that the Niagara University student chapter meets and excels at those standards and is the hallmark of excellence in education and professional development for club management students.”
Founded in 1927, the Club Management Association of America is the largest professional association for club management professionals, with 6,800 members contributing to the success of more than 2,500 clubs worldwide. Niagara University’s College of Hospitality, Sport, and Tourism Management offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in hotel, restaurant, sport, recreation, and tourism management. To learn more, please call 716.286.8279 or visit www.niagara.edu/hospitality.
