I don’t approach teaching as theory.
I approach it the same way I approach events and strategy—grounded in real-world experience, practical application, and ideas that students can actually use.
Whether in a classroom or professional setting, my goal is simple: connect what’s being taught to what’s actually happening in the industry.
Because understanding concepts is one thing. Knowing how to apply them is what actually matters.
What Students Walk Away With
- A clearer understanding of how strategy applies in real-world settings
- Hands-on experience working with actual organizations and challenges
- Confidence in applying concepts, not just understanding them
- Exposure to how associations, events, and organizations actually operate
How I Teach
I design every course to bridge the gap between theory and practice, giving students real-world exposure through projects, organizations, and experiences that go beyond the classroom. That includes:
- Projects tied to actual organizations. Local news coverage showcasing this approach.
- Practical assignments that reflect real decisions
- Conversations grounded in what’s happening right now—not just what’s in the textbook
The goal isn’t just to complete a course. It’s to leave with something you can use.
Classroom Settings and Course Levels
My teaching experience spans a range of environments and audiences, including:
- Professional certifications (CEM)
- Undergraduate and graduate MBA courses
- Traditional and adult learners
- Online and in-formats
I’m proud that my courses and sessions consistently receive high praise in student surveys, reflecting the impact and effectiveness of my teaching approach.
Where I Teach & Contribute
Much of what I teach directly connects to my work with associations, event organizers, and industry leaders—bringing current challenges and real-world insight into every course.
Certified In Events Management (CEM) Instructor & CEM Commission Member — International Association of Exhibitions & Events (IAEE)
Teaching Approach: While each course has a well-defined curriculum, creating an environment to develop industry connections, sharing learning, and designing activities to engage both in-person and online have been highly successful. CEM students range in diversity, from age and experience to those recertifying.
Courses: Event Marketing & Event Sales
“Rich is the best faculty so far in the program. He stuck to the book but did a great job of telling stories and entertaining. Would love to see him teach more often”
“Instructor did a great job. I feel like I learned a lot in this course.”
“I love the interactive lessons.”
CEM Student Feedback
Adjunct Professor — Hood College
Teaching Approach: Connect coursework to experiential community-based projects with local non-profit organizations and small businesses to create an engaging learning experience. Final class projects included presentations to the client highlighting the work completed and strategic recommendations for the organizations.
Courses: MGMT 570 – Market Research for Managers & MGMT 423 – Marketing Research Methods
The Frederick News covered one of the courses using this innovative approach.
“Fantastic professor; he is very qualified to teach. I love how he had us do market research for a real business downtown. I really learned how to do marketing as an actual professional.”
“The project to work with a local non-profit was the highlight of my MBA experience to date.”
“This class was amazing!! Thank you to professor Vallaster for making this an interesting and valuable experience!”
Hood Student Feedback
Rich Vallaster 