Wynn partners with UNLV on exchange programme to cultivate global talent

Integrated resort operator Wynn has partnered with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) to launch a 10-day student exchange programme designed to nurture globally minded talent and promote the integrated development of “tourism + education” in Macau.

Titled the “Wynn x UNLV Student Exchange Programme 2025”, the initiative brings 12 UNLV students to Macau for an immersive experience exploring the city’s cultural heritage, world-class resorts and tourism industry. The programme is also supported by the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO).

An opening ceremony was held on Monday at Wynn Palace, attended by representatives from MGTO, the Education and Youth Development Bureau (DSEDJ), Wynn and UNLV.

“Wynn is always dedicated to the growth and learning of young people and has held diverse educational activities to nurture talent for the future development of Macau,” said Linda Chen, President, Vice Chairman and Executive Director of Wynn Macau, Limited, at the ceremony.

She noted that the programme is designed to provide hands-on experience and insights into Macau’s dynamic hospitality sector, while also broadening students’ cross-cultural understanding.

“By leveraging Macau’s role as an international connecting platform, the programme will also enhance the students’ understanding of local and Chinese cultures and help to promote cultural exchange between [China and the United States],” she added.

Opportunity for growth

The exchange initiative aims to deepen the students’ understanding of Macau as an east-meets-west destination. Activities are curated by the Wynn Academy—Wynn’s learning and development arm established in 2007—to broaden students’ international outlook.

Participants will take part in executive roundtable discussions, lectures on integrated resort operations, culinary heritage workshops, and guided tours of Macau’s UNESCO World Heritage sites.

“This partnership with Wynn Macau represents an incredible opportunity for UNLV students to experience a different culture, be exposed to new languages, and grow personally and professionally,” said Tony Henthorne, Professor at the UNLV Harrah College of Hospitality.

The opening event also featured a keynote address by Fomen Leong, Acting Head of MGTO’s Research and Planning Division. His presentation, titled “Tourism Trends in Macau and Travel Opportunities in the Greater Bay Area,” gave students a deeper understanding of regional tourism dynamics and cross-border collaboration.

Also in attendance were Herbert Choi, Acting Head of the Organisational Planning and Development Department at MGTO; and Sam Hio Tong, Acting Head of the Department of Tertiary Education at DSEDJ.

Other guests included Patty Coaley, Assistant Professor in Residence at UNLV; Frederic Luvisutto, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director of Wynn Macau, Limited; Craig Fullalove, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Administrative Officer of Wynn Macau, Limited; Zuleika Mok, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Wynn Macau, Limited; and Barry Ip, Vice President of Learning and Advancement at Wynn Macau and Wynn Palace.

*This article is part of the MNA Wynn Macau Tourism Plus Partnership Series