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 students can use.
My goal is simple: connect what’s being taught to what’s actually happening in the industry. Understanding concepts is one thing. Knowing how to apply them is what counts.
🏆 2026 IAEE Bob Dallmeyer Educator of the Year
I’m honored to be the 2026 recipient of IAEE’s Bob Dallmeyer Educator of the Year Award, which recognizes creativity, a positive attitude, and innovative teaching that promotes lifelong learning across the industry. It belongs just as much to the students and attendees who leaned in, pushed back, and put ideas to work. Learn about the award
What Students Walk Away With
- Confidence applying strategy in real-world settings, not just understanding it
- Hands-on experience with actual organizations and challenges
- An inside look at how associations and events really operate
How I Teach
Every course bridges the gap between theory and practice, with real-world exposure that goes beyond the classroom:
- Projects tied to actual organizations (local news covered one of them)
- 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 spans a range of environments and audiences:
- Professional certification (CEM)
- Undergraduate and MBA courses
- Traditional and adult learners
- Online and in-person formats
My courses and sessions consistently earn high marks in student surveys.
Where I Teach & Contribute
Much of what I teach connects directly to my work with associations, event organizers, and industry leaders, so every course brings current challenges and real-world insight into the room.
Certified In Exhibition Management (CEM) Instructor, CEM Commission Member (2027 Chair), and 2026 IAEE Bob Dallmeyer Educator of the Year
Teaching Approach: Each course follows a defined curriculum, but I build in time for industry connections, shared learning, and activities that engage students both in person and online. CEM classes bring together a wide mix of ages, experience levels, and professionals who are 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: I connect coursework to hands-on projects with local nonprofits and small businesses. Each course ends with students presenting their work and strategic recommendations directly to the client organization.
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
