Chapman University’s unique approach to higher education revolves around providing a personalized experience for each student, creating an environment that nurtures personal growth and development. Alumnus Ethan Ayres (MSRE ’21) of Ayres Hotels and Ayres Construction Company observed firsthand the profound influence Chapman wields in shaping individuals into their best versions while receiving his master’s degree in real estate.
“Whether it be long work hours, challenges in the workplace, achievements in the workplace or other workplace situations, Chapman students can handle anything,” Ayres stated.
As a student, Ayres was challenged with a comprehensive and time-consuming curriculum, but he acknowledged that it prepared him and his classmates for real-life situations.
“As an organization, we believe that if you care about people (our team members and the individuals we serve) and value teamwork, results will come,” he explained. “We believe Chapman embodies this same philosophy, and the alumni we hire fit well into our organization’s beliefs and work ethic.”
Trisha Skubic, the area director of sales for Ayres Hotels, works directly with Chapman alumna Angeli Viera ’21, the hotel’s sales manager.
“Angeli is an exceptional employee, team member and colleague,” Skubic stated. “I feel that the level of higher education Chapman provides grows individuals into star employees.”
In addition to hiring many Chapman graduates over the years, Chapman’s partnership with Ayres Hotels doesn’t stop there, as Ayres Hotels has steadily increased its commitment to the Chapman Fund. This year, they donated $25,000 to support student scholarships and the university’s greatest needs.
“We are grateful to Ayres Hotels and our partnership, which has seen increased value over the last seven years,” said Gabe Cagwin, Ph.D., vice president of development. “Gifts to the Chapman Fund provide university leadership with the resources to respond swiftly to its greatest needs, like providing financial aid and scholarships for more than 86% of our students.”
As one of Chapman’s hotel vendors, discounted rates are also available to Chapman parents, students, faculty and staff at Ayres Hotel Anaheim, Ayres Hotel Orange and ALO Hotel by Ayres.
Ayres, who currently works as a project manager for his family’s company, appreciates the national recognition Chapman has received over the years and feels grateful that it still embodies the personalized feel.
“After graduating from Chapman, the university remains a resource for me to stay connected to professors, peers and the business community,” Ayres stated. “Chapman provides a strong conduit for people to stay connected throughout the County through speaking engagements, alumni events, the Economic Forecast and many more events that happen throughout the year.”
The $25,000 gift from Ayres Hotels advances Chapman’s strategic plan goal of raising $500 million through its Inspire Campaign, of which $368 million has been raised to date.
