DENTON (UNT), Texas — University of North Texas student Brandon Nowell says his future started in the past – with a box of poorly made balloons.

Three decades ago, Brandon’s dad, Wes, was working for UPS Inc., when a client from the Pioneer Balloon Company offered him some mis-manufactured product. Wes took the defective balloons home and soon discovered that he had a knack for creating new balloon designs. He and wife Joanie started a small balloon art and decorating business:...

One of the nation’s premier authorities on apparel, textiles, sustainability and international business – Jana Hawley – is joining the University of North Texas as the new dean of its College of Merchandising, Hospitality and Tourism.

Hawley’s appointment begins Aug. 1. In her role as the college’s dean, she will have authority over research, outreach and curriculum.

“I’m excited that Jana Hawley has chosen to return to UNT and lead our college at this important time in its growth,” UNT Provost...

What: The Club at Gateway, a student-run restaurant at the University of North Texas, will soon start its spring dining season. Designed as part of a hands-on course for hospitality management majors, students get experience in all aspects of managing a hospitality venue – including menu planning, meal preparation, marketing, staff management and budgeting.

When: Seating is from 11 a.m. to noon, Monday – Thursday from Feb. 19 (Monday) to April 26 (Thursday). The club is closed March 12 – 15, March 27 and...

DENTON (UNT), Texas — A new degree option at the University of North Texas is giving students the know-how to take on changing consumer trends in retail.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board approved the Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Consumer Experience Management – making UNT the first U.S. university to offer the degree program.

“There is a huge opportunity for graduates who can be ahead of the trends,” said...

DENTON (UNT), Texas — A University of North Texas student is going to one of the biggest shows in retail, thanks to a unique scholarship. Emma Restivo, a freshman, received the Rising Star Award to attend the National Retail Federation Big Show and Student Program Jan. 12 – 15.

The award is granted by the National Retail Federation Foundation to a student who shows promise in digital retailing. Restivo, who is double majoring in digital retailing and home furnishings...

DENTON (UNT), Texas — The YMA Fashion Scholarship Fund is awarding four University of North Texas students with $5,000 prizes. The UNT students are among more than 200 college students to receive money from the fund.

The winners include Andrew Bridges, a senior from Sanger, Texas, majoring in merchandising with a marketing minor; Ruthanna Harry, a senior from Garland, Texas, majoring in merchandising and digital retailing with a minor in marketing; Maia Wilson, a senior from Frisco, Texas, majoring in merchandising and digital retailing...

DENTON (UNT), Texas — University of North Texas registered dietician Ann Marie Afflerbach, a lecturer in the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, offers advice for healthy eating during the holidays and for making healthy-eating resolutions.

Is there anything people can do before Jan. 1 to set themselves up for success for the New Year?

“Make little changes now such as adding at least one fruit or vegetable serving to your daily diet. Don't have...

DENTON (UNT), Texas — University of North Texas wine connoisseur Han Wen, an assistant professor of hospitality who teaches courses on wine, shares tips for how to shop for, serve and gift wine on a budget.       

When selecting wine as a gift, what are the key things to look for? 

...

What: The University of North Texas' student-run restaurant, the Club at Gateway Center, will soon start serving three-course, gourmet lunches. The club opens for a limited time twice a year and gives students experience running a business.

When: Seating from 11 a.m. to noon on weekdays Oct. 2 (Monday) – Dec. 1 (Friday). Closed Nov. 23 and 24 (Thursday and Friday).

Where: Inside the Gateway Center,...

DENTON (UNT), Texas — An idea created on campus is giving three University of North Texas graduates the opportunity of a lifetime – a live appearance on the HSN television shopping network. They will appear in a cell in the 7-9 p.m. (Eastern) slot Aug. 4 (Friday).

Thanks to a unique handbag design, the former students won the National Retail Federation’s 2016 Student Challenge at the annual “BIG Show” in New York...