Faculty Development & Immersion Program

The CMAA Faculty Development & Immersion Program equips full-time university faculty—especially those teaching or developing hospitality or club management courses—with a deep understanding of the private club industry. This initiative enhances faculty expertise, introduces career paths for students, fosters collaboration, and strengthens connections with CMAA and industry stakeholders.

The program spans up to one year, beginning in Fall 2025. Regular check-ins with CMAA will help track progress and ensure active engagement.

Application Deadline: July 31, 2025

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Program Details

Eligibility

This program is open to full-time university faculty who:

Teach or are developing hospitality/club management curricula
Have a letter of support from their Dean or Department Chair
Include a letter of support from a CMAA Chapter representative or local club manager
Show a strong commitment to advancing club management education

Preference will be given to faculty involved with (or planning to establish) a CMAA Student Chapter.

Application Guidelines & Instructions

To be considered for the CMAA Faculty Development & Immersion Program, please follow these steps:

Complete the Application Form
Submit the online form by July 31, 2025.
Prepare and Submit a Statement of Interest (Essay)
Outline how participation in this program will benefit:

Your personal and professional development
Your students’ exposure to and understanding of the club management field
Your university’s curriculum and career pathways

Include Reference Letters of Support

One letter from your Dean or Department Chair confirming your role and support for participation
One letter from a CMAA Chapter representative or local club manager supporting your engagement with the club industry

Demonstrate Commitment
Applicants should show a strong interest in:

Advancing club management education
Incorporating club-related content into their curriculum
Collaborating with CMAA chapters and professionals
Potentially launching or supporting a CMAA Student Chapter

Program Scope

Participants will gain insight into club management’s strategic and operational roles across various club types: country, golf, yacht, and city clubs.

Key components:

Integration of club operations into curricula
Participation in CMAA events
Networking and mentorship
Club tours and immersive experiences
Recognition through CMAA channels
A digital badge as a certificate of completion

Benefits to Faculty

CMAA membership
Access to club tours and professionals
Guest lecturer and research contacts
Course content for lectures
Improved student engagement
Pathways for student internships and careers
Designated regional club liaison from a CMAA Chapter

Program Experience

Required Activities

Virtual club operations orientation (~8 hours)
CMAA overview session with staff (~4 hours)
Review of Contemporary Club Management textbook
Attend CMAA World Conference & Club Business Expo (4–5 days)
Attend National Student Education Conference (3 days)
Complete 3 local/regional club tours (~3 days)
One-day strategic visit with a club’s GM/COO
One to two-day immersive experience in club operations
Join CMAA’s faculty Member Interest Group (MIG)
Network with CMAA faculty advisors and stakeholders
Submit a final program evaluation

Optional Activities

Attend CMAA webinars
Join local CMAA Chapter programs
Submit research proposals
Write for Club Management magazine

Financial Assistance

Provided by The Club Foundation:

Up to $2,500 travel stipend and complimentary registration to CMAA World Conference & Club Business Expo
Up to $1,500 travel stipend and complimentary registration to National Student Education Conference (NSEC)
Up to $1,000 travel funding for club tours/visits, if applicable

How to Apply

Application Process

Deadline: July 31, 2025
Complete the Application Form below
- Submit a statement of interest
- Upload letters of support from your Dean and a CMAA representative

Selection Process

Preference to faculty with less exposure to club management
Preference to those involved with a CMAA Student Chapter
Annual selection by CMAA staff, Membership and Professional Development Committees, and The Club Foundation
Up to five grants awarded annually
Faculty may receive the full grant once every seven years (via application/acceptance)