Jun 1, 2026
Please join us in welcoming Colton Sears, NYSTIA's 2026 Roger Dow Travel & Tourism Intern. Colton is a student at Cornell University, studying Hotel Administration with a specialization in Marketing and a minor in Film. Fundamentally, Colton is interested in the business of people. Whether it's hospitality or entertainment, he is pursuing a career that will allow him to remain connected with the inherent human qualities that make an experience memorable, and tourism is often the method through which these moments are created. He thrives at the intersection between business and art. He expects to graduate in 2028.
"I'm grateful for this opportunity to further my career in hospitality and build on my skills in professional communication, marketing, content creation, and more while learning how the various sectors of the industry interact with one another, from hotels and F&B establishments to museums and tourism attractions." Colton stated in a recent LinkedIn post. "Thank you to NYSTIA and everyone who has supported me along the way. I’m looking forward to what’s ahead."
Colton's background includes work experience at the Skaneateles Area Chamber of Commerce and Anyela's Vineyards, where he gained a strong foundation in community event and food and beverage operations. He also works at the Statler Hotel at Cornell University as a Sales and Marketing Supervisor. He previously worked in the Meetings & Events department during my freshman year.
Colton is a member of Hotel Ezra Cornell, a student organization of Cornell University, and Delta Kappa Alpha Pre-Professional Cinematic Fraternity. He also writes for the Cornell Daily Sun newspaper and volunteered with Elmcrest Children's Center in Syracuse.
He is very interested in film, music, writing, weightlifting, and nature — He considers the Finger Lakes region one of the most beautiful places one can be, especially in the summer.
Colton Sears