SHTM’s Sustainability Spotlight Brings Learning to Life at Folktale Winery

 September 19, 2025 — California State University, Monterey Bay’s Sustainable Hospitality & Tourism Management (SHTM) Program continues to redefine experiential learning through its Sustainability Spotlight Series, an immersive initiative connecting students directly with leaders in regenerative tourism and hospitality.

This month, students participated in the Fall 2025 Sustainability Spotlight at Folktale Winery & Vineyards, where they explored the intersection of sustainability, culinary innovation, and stewardship within one of Monterey County’s most celebrated destinations.

“The Sustainability Spotlight allows students to step into living case studies—real businesses applying the principles of sustainable tourism every day,” said Dr. Paige Viren, Executive Director of the SHTM program. “By connecting classroom learning with real-world leadership, we’re preparing students to become the next generation of changemakers in hospitality.”

Hosted in partnership with Greg and Madigan Ahn, founders of Folktale Winery, the experience featured presentations and tours led by key members of the Folktale team, including Chief Experience Officer John Fitzgerald, Director of Hospitality Andrea Rosene, and Winemaker Nat Wong. Students learned firsthand about sustainable viticulture, regenerative hospitality, and community-driven business practices that align with global sustainability goals.

The day also featured an interactive “Charcuterie Board Challenge,” where students collaborated in teams to design boards using locally sourced ingredients. Judged by Chef Jeff Walker and Andrew Ávila, the winning team earned the coveted “Lord of the Board” award before closing the afternoon with live music in the Wine Garden.

The Carmel Pine Cone highlighted the event as an innovative approach to sustainability education—showcasing how CSUMB’s SHTM program leverages industry partnerships to connect learning, leadership, and local culture.

Building on this momentum, the next Sustainability Spotlight will take place in November at Carmel Valley Ranch, featuring an exploration of sustainable agriculture through a hands-on beekeeping experience and honey tasting.

“These experiences embody the spirit of our region,” Dr. Viren said. “Students gain not only professional insight but a deeper sense of place and purpose within Monterey County’s world-class hospitality community.”

About the Sustainability Spotlight Series

Launched in 2023, the Sustainability Spotlight Initiative is a signature component of CSUMB’s Sustainable Hospitality & Tourism Management program. Through curated, field-based learning experiences with hotels, resorts, wineries, and tourism organizations, the program connects students to industry leaders who are pioneering sustainable practices and shaping the future of responsible tourism.

About the Sustainable Hospitality & Tourism Management Program at CSUMB

The Sustainable Hospitality & Tourism Management (SHTM) Program at California State University, Monterey Bay empowers students to become leaders in responsible and regenerative tourism. Through experiential learning, industry partnerships, and a commitment to sustainability, the program prepares graduates to address real-world challenges and drive innovation across the global hospitality industry.

For more information about upcoming Sustainability Spotlights, contact Dr. Paige Viren at pviren@csumb.edu or visit: csumb.edu/hospitality