Education

M.I.H.T.M., International Hospitality and Tourism Management, University of South Carolina
B.B.A., Hospitality and Tourism Management, James Madison University

Background

Carol Como is an instructor in the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, where she combines academic expertise with extensive industry experience to prepare students for successful careers. She transitioned to being a full-time instructor in the College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management in August 2025 after previously serving as interim internship director for the school. In that role, she advised students, expanded industry partnerships and guided professional development through practicum and internship courses.

Before becoming a faculty member, Como was engaged learning and outreach coordinator for the SmartState Center for Economic Excellence in Tourism and Economic Development in the school. She developed certificate courses that aligned with industry standards, coordinated international training programs and managed initiatives that connected students with global perspectives on sustainability, crisis leadership and customer service. She has also served as an adjunct instructor and guest lecturer at institutions in the United States and abroad.

Her industry background spans event planning, catering sales and real estate. Como held leadership roles with By Invitation Only Event Planning and Design and Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, and gained early career experience with ARAMARK. These roles strengthened her ability to bring practical insights into the classroom and highlight the real-world applications of academic study.

Como earned her Master of International Hospitality and Tourism Management from the University of South Carolina and a Bachelor of Business Administration in hospitality and tourism management from James Madison University. She also holds a Level 1 Certified Sommelier credential from the Court of Master Sommeliers.

Honors / Awards

• Certified Sommelier Level 1, Court of Master Sommeliers (2021)

Teaching

• HTMT 290 – Hospitality and Tourism Practicum
• HTMT 344 – Personnel Organization and Supervision
• HTMT 364 – Conference and Meeting Planning
• HTMT 491 – Event Production
• HTMT 495 – Hospitality and Tourism Internship
• HTMT 591 – Golf Tourism