Rod Warnick, Ph.D. Named Faculty Mentor
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – The Club Management Association of America (CMAA) announces the three university faculty selected for its 2027 Faculty Development & Immersion Program cohort. The one-year program provides an opportunity for full-time university faculty to immerse themselves in the vibrant club industry where leadership, lifestyle, and learning intersect.
CMAA’s Faculty Development & Immersion Program offers selected educators a one-of-a-kind, fully hosted experience inside premier private clubs. This extensive program allows participants to observe club operations up close, connect with industry leaders, and return to the classroom with real-world insights and case studies that prepare students for club management careers. This initiative enhances faculty expertise, introduces career paths for students, fosters collaboration, and strengthens connections with CMAA and industry stakeholders. Additionally, individuals receive travel support to attend industry events through the generous support of The Club Foundation.
The individuals selected for the 2027 cohort are:
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- Ajai Ammachathram, Ph.D., CHE, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
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- Matthew Bauman, Ph.D., Purdue University Northwest
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- JB Ward, Ph.D., Florida Atlantic University
Rod Warnick, Ph.D.,
University of Massachusetts
In addition to celebrating the incoming cohort, CMAA has selected Rod Warnick, Ph.D., at the University of Massachusetts as the 2027 cohort’s faculty mentor. Recognized for having the longest faculty advisor tenure and a highly successful CMAA Student Chapter, Dr. Warnick brings a deep dedication to advancing hospitality and club management education. His guidance, perspective, and mentorship are invaluable to our faculty participants, playing a vital role in furthering CMAA’s mission to support educators and future industry leaders.
Learn more about the Faculty Development & Immersion Program.
About CMAA
Founded in 1927, the Club Management Association of America (CMAA) is celebrating 100 years as the leading professional organization for club management professionals. CMAA’s 8,700 members drive the success of 2,600 country, golf, athletic, city, faculty, military, town, and yacht clubs across the United States and internationally. For a century, the Association has advanced the club management profession by fostering professional relationships, championing education and career development, and providing the resources necessary for effective and successful club operations. Guided by the principles of professionalism, education, leadership, and community, CMAA continues to shape the future of club management while honoring the legacy and impact of club management professionals worldwide. Headquartered in Alexandria, VA, CMAA is strengthened by its 38 professional chapters and 45 current and prospective student chapters. Learn more at cmaa.org.
About The Club Foundation
The Club Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, was established by CMAA in 1988. The Foundation seeks to fund the life cycle of a club manager’s career, providing financial support for five key areas: students, faculty, club managers, CMAA Chapters, and the club industry at large. It supports the advancement of club management professionals, funding industry education programs through scholarships and grants. Donations to The Club Foundation are essential to the continued success of the club industry and support club management professionals at every stage of their careers. Since 1988, The Club Foundation has awarded more than $8.5 million in scholarships and grants to provide individuals with professional development opportunities, education and research, and essential training. Learn more at clubfoundation.org.
Media Contact:
Melissa Low, CAE
CMAA
goodnews@cmaa.org
