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When Melinqua 'Mel' Francis graduated from ������Ƶ on May 12, 2018 she joined two older sisters as proud alumni. “As a strong believer in the university’s mission, a ������Ƶ education has become a family tradition,” she says. 

A hospitality and tourism major, Mel traveled with her faculty and classmates often, to meet legislators as part of Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association’s annual Legislative Day in Harrisburg; learn on-site about topics like field-to-table restaurants and zythology; and participate in the Thrival Innovation and Music Festival and Pittsburgh Irish Festival. While on campus, Mel served as a resident assistant and also participated in the Multicultural and International Students Organization (MISO), Black Students Union, Business Club and Sister 2 Sister Mentor Program.

“The growth, grit and drive that I have developed through my undergraduate career as a hospitality and tourism management major - but most importantly as a student attending a liberal arts university - was a result of a variety of experiences,” she says. “My liberal arts education has allowed me to build connections and given me the opportunity to feel competent and confident in my future career.”