Rohnert Park, CA – The Concierge Alliance of Napa Valley and Sonoma (CANVAS) has created a scholarship that will support an individual working towards completion of the Direct to Consumer Certificate at Sonoma State’s Wine Business Institute this fall. The scholarship will include funds to pay for the certificate program and membership in CANVAS for 2 years.
The CANVAS organization supports and strengthens the hospitality community by providing it’s more than 1,000 Hospitality Professional Members in Wine Country with education, networking events, training, an annual Trade Show and an interactive informational website. “I am thrilled that SSU has created programs that prepare students to understand the foundation of Hospitality as a profession. I believe it will create longevity and better growth in their career. More importantly it will also uplift the general quality of the profession.” says Colby Smith, Founder of CANVAS. Individuals interested in applying for the scholarship need to submit a completed application and cover letter with a current resume by April 24th, to Jessica Pozzi, program coordinator for the Wine Business Institute.
In order to earn the certificate one must complete eight 4-hour seminars that are offered on the SSU campus. Students are required to take five core seminars on topics like Direct to Consumer Marketing, Building a Profitable Wine Club, Successful Winery Events, Selling Through the Tasting Room and Practical Strategies to Increase eCommerce.
These seminars are open to the public and may be taken individually or together to earn a Certificate. “In addition to Wine Regions’ reputation for fine wine, outstanding cuisine and scenic beauty, CANVAS’ aim is to enhance the region’s reputation for Customer Service. Hospitality focused programs like the one at SSU definitely support that goal,” says Colby Smith. The program is designed to be completed in one semester or at the participant’s own pace. There are no prerequisites and all seminars are held on campus at Sonoma State in Rohnert Park. Tuition for each class is $180; if you sign up two weeks in advance you will receive a $30 discount.
For more information about the scholarship or if you would like to apply please contact:
Jessica Pozzi at (707) 664-3347 or jessica.pozzi@sonoma.edu.
About Sonoma State University’s Wine Business Institute
Sonoma State University’s Wine Business Institute is located in the heart of California wine country and was created through a public-private partnership between the university and the wine industry. Founded in 1996, it is the first program in the United States to offer undergraduate and graduate degrees focused exclusively on the business aspects of the wine industry. In addition to its academic programs the Wine Business Institute offers an array of seminars and certificates. Its faculty members are published experts, active researchers, and requested presenters on pressing industry topics. The Wine Business Institute operates within Sonoma State’s School of Business and Economics, a fully accredited AACSB institution. Learn more at sonoma.edu/winebiz
