For more than 40 years UNLVino has rallied community support for UNLV’s William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration. Though dean of the Harrah Hotel College for just two years, Stowe Shoemaker’s history with UNLVino goes back well before his term as dean. Here’s what he had to say about it:

What was your first experience with UNLVino?

I went to UNLVino as a new faculty member in 1995 when it was a single-day event held at Bally’s. [He served on the UNLV faculty 1995-2004 before serving at the University of Houston.] I was impressed by the level of spirit the event generated among the students, the faculty, and local community. It was fun!  

How has UNLVino changed over time?

When I returned in 2012, I was excited to see that UNLV’s partnership with Larry Ruvo and Southern Wine & Spirits had deepened, and UNLVino had really been reinvented. It had gone from a simple wine tasting event to a three-day extravaganza with wine, food, and entertainment. I think this change really reflects how Las Vegas has shifted from a gaming town to a sophisticated integrated-resort destination. It was also great to see that UNLVino was highlighting a special honoree at each event. Many of these individuals have contributed so much to the industry and the community.

What does UNLVino mean for hospitality students?

So many students have benefitted over the years from the scholarship dollars generated through UNLVino. What I think sticks out the most for students, however, is the work experience they gain from the event. When I talk to our alumni, they always reflect on UNLVino. They may not remember what they learned in a particular class, but they remember what they learned working at the event—which is the art, science, and business of hospitality. UNLVino stands as the unifying event of the hospitality student experience.

What does UNLVino mean for the college?

UNLVino has been the college’s signature event for 42 years, and I hope it will continue for many more.  It’s wonderful to see how UNLVino has really grown from a party into an opportunity to celebrate student success. It’s meaningful for the college because it is a tradition that brings people together.