Meet Our Student Managers

Michelle Bermea 
Marketing Manager

Michelle Bermea, a dedicated junior at Conrad N. Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership at the University of Houston, consistently achieves academic excellence, exemplified by a coveted place on the Dean's List. Her primary academic focus centers on lodging, complemented by a minor in marketing. Combined, these concentrations will provide Michelle with a well-rounded education proven to be a powerhouse within the industry.

Michelle holds significant leadership roles that extend beyond the classroom. Serving as the first vice president of membership on the student board of the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE) University of Houston student chapter, she plays a pivotal role in fostering a vibrant and engaged student community. She also serves as the human resources and recruiting manager for Gourmet Night, an annual student-led, gala-type event that showcases emerging talent. These roles demonstrate her ability to lead and manage within both academic and extracurricular spheres.

In 2022, Michelle also held a committee position as the secretary of NACE University of Houston student chapter, where she contributed to the organization's success in various endeavors. Within the organization, Michelle's dedication and contributions were recognized, as she earned prestigious recognition as the 2023 student of the year.

In addition to her academic achievements, Michelle brings valuable hands-on experience to the table. This is exemplified through her involvement in wedding planning, day-of coordination, social media marketing and as an active travel agent. She is also committed to community service and actively volunteers during the Bridal Extravaganza and Corks & Forks events. Each of these extracurricular roles proves to be an invaluable asset to any endeavor she chooses to pursue.

In her leisure time, Michelle finds joy in maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular workouts, exploring new destinations with loved ones and discovering charming coffee shops.

Michelle’s multifaceted skill set and unwavering passion for both professional and personal pursuits are integral within the Corks & Forks leadership team. She is elated to assume the role of marketing manager for the 2024 event.

Madison Gass
Event and Logistics Manager

Madison Gass, an enthusiastic junior at the Conrad N. Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership at the University of Houston, consistently pushes herself and in doing so, achieves new heights. Her primary academic focus is Wine and Beverage, an industry she is already making (rosé-colored) waves in.  

A fervor for rich beer and wine flavors propelled Madison to achieve a Level 1 certification through the Court of Master Sommeliers. This highly recognized and sought-after accreditation makes her a competitive leader in the hospitality sector.

Academically, Madison's active involvement at Hilton College extends to her membership within the NACE University of Houston student chapter, her role as a camp counselor during the college’s Summer Camp '23 and a leadership position for the 2024 Gourmet Night. Madison assumes the position of marketing manager for this year’s Gourmet Night, a rigorous role that requires a leader who is creative, innovative, versatile and exemplary; Attributes Madison herself conveys gracefully.

Her enact ability to lead began flourishing in high school, as Madison spearheaded the revival of the school’s homecoming dance, a tradition that had since been on a 15-year hiatus. Through presenting well-thought-out plans, garnering widespread support and orchestrating the event within a remarkable three-month timeframe, Madison not only resurrected a dormant tradition at her alma mater but also discovered a profound passion for event management.

Skillfully balancing academic excellence with her passion for event planning and philanthropy, Madison dedicates part of her time to being a childcare volunteer and a florals and event coordinator at Whimsical Creative. These two immensely diverse roles allow her to compassionately give back to the community in a creativity memorable way.

Madison’s innovative originality, sincere determination and love for wine will elevate the extraordinarily unforgettable, annual Corks & Forks event. She is overjoyed to assume the role of event planner for the 2024 event.