Mexico City, July 15, 2025— Students in the Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality Management at ESDAI at the Universidad Panamericana, presented innovative proposals for rebranding for the Avani Hotels & Resorts as part of an industry-linked academic project.
The event, held on May 21 and 22, was attended by executives from the hotel chain and highlighted the university’s commitment to practical training and professional engagement.
Learning with a Real Impact
Under the guidance of Professor Pedro Pablo Espinosa, the 6th-semester students developed positioning strategies for introducing Avani to the markets in Cancún and Bogotáas part of their Marketing course. The project addressed a real-world challenge posed by the company, which is currently undergoing a transition from the NH brand.
“The goal was for the students to apply analytical skills, creativity, and decision-making to solve a real-world challenge in the hospitality industry,”, the professor explained. The proposals included digital , the design of authentic experiences, brand identity, and sustainability, demonstrating a comprehensive and professional approach.
Collaboration with Industry Experts
The event brought together prominent representatives from Avani Hotels & Resorts, who evaluated the presentations and provided feedback.
Among the guests were: Octavio Juan Altamirano Calvillo, director of Avani Cancún; Elizabeth Millán Garduño, marketing manager at NH Hotel Group Mexico & Cuba; and María Alexandra Araujo, marketing director for the Andean region at Minor Hotels Europe & Americas.
“This partnership reinforces our commitment to training professionals who can have a positive impact on the industry,”, noted Claudia Galindo Correa, Head of the School of Business Administration at ESDAI.
The students worked in teams, focusing on strategies for each destination. The solutions they presented were the result of a semester of research, as well as scoping and follow-up sessions with Avani’s executives.
“It was an enriching experience to see how the students tackled the challenges with creativity and professionalism,”, said Juanita Torres Aranguren, Director of Operations at Avani Royal Zona T Bogotá.
An Educational Model with Professional Impact
This academic year reflects ESDAI’s pedagogical model: hands-on training, interdisciplinarity, and close ties to the real-world workplace. Collaboration with leading companies in the tourism sector, such as Avani, enhances students’ employability and their ability to innovate in a global market.
Learn more about ESDAI at: https://www.up.edu.mx/educacion-universidad-esdai/
