A graduate of the Master of Science in Hospitality Management Studies (MSHMS) program, Renata Chreem, at Fairleigh Dickinson University Vancouver (Class of 2021), has built a dynamic career shaped by her academic experience and passion for service excellence. Her time at FDU Vancouver played a pivotal role in refining her leadership perspective and sparking a strong research interest, which she now integrates into her work within the healthcare sector.

Currently serving as a Program Support Assistant with Vancouver Coastal Health, Renata applies hospitality-driven, client-centred principles to enhance patient care and service delivery. From her early role supporting newcomers to Canada to contributing to inclusive public health initiatives, her journey reflects a meaningful blend of hospitality and healthcare, grounded in empathy, cultural awareness, and a commitment to making a positive impact.

How did your experience at FDU Vancouver influence your career path or leadership journey?

Pursuing my Master’s Degree in Hospitality Management at FDU Vancouver significantly reshaped the direction of my career.

Through the MSHMS program, I had the opportunity to explore the field of research, and I quickly developed a strong passion for it. Today, I actively seek to apply research principles within my role in the healthcare system, and I have had opportunities to design and conduct small-scale studies aimed at understanding how workflows can be improved to better serve clients.

I also had the opportunity to volunteer as a member of the Access & Equity Project Staff Advisory Committee, an initiative developed by my health authority to identify improvements for both staff and patients receiving Public Health services in our region. Notably, I was the only non-clinical volunteer involved in this project.

Leadership had already been part of my professional background; however, studying leadership within the program provided me with new perspectives and a deeper understanding of different approaches, which I now apply in my day-to-day work.

Tell us about your career journey since graduating from FDU Vancouver.

After graduating from FDU, I found a position as a housing consultant, working closely with newcomers in Vancouver. In this role, I supported families before they arrived in Canada by securing rental housing, ensuring they had a place to live upon arrival. I also assisted with essential documentation, including BCID applications, Social Insurance Numbers (SIN), and enrollment in the Medical Services Plan (MSP).

This experience allowed me to develop a strong understanding of the needs of newcomer populations, while gaining insight into the structure and functioning of the Canadian healthcare system. Motivated by this exposure, I decided to pursue a role within a health authority where I could better align my professional background with my growing interest in healthcare services.

I joined Vancouver Coastal Health three years ago within the Public Health Immunization program. In this position, I had the opportunity to contribute to the development of an immunization clinic designed specifically for newcomers, immigrants and refugees from diverse backgrounds. This initiative was highly rewarding, and it remains one of the professional experiences I am most proud of. I continue to seek opportunities to further integrate and apply my knowledge of Hospitality Management within the healthcare environment.

What is the relationship between hospitality and healthcare? How are these two disciplines interrelated?

The relationship between hospitality and healthcare is extensive, particularly when considering service management, client experience, and service excellence. What distinguishes a hospitality professional in terms of customer experience is a uniquely strong service-oriented mindset. This perspective can be effectively translated into a patient-centred care approach. Although patients are not “clients,” their satisfaction with the care they receive can significantly and positively influence health outcomes within a healthcare setting.

The healthcare system must recognize that delivering care with excellence can serve as a powerful ally in improving both patient experience and overall outcomes. My graduate studies at FDU also provided me with a deep understanding of service management, an area that is central to Hospitality and equally essential within healthcare environments.

Hospitality professionals are often well-equipped to perform under pressure, demonstrate strong critical thinking, and exhibit a high level of cultural sensitivity. This cultural awareness is especially valuable in diverse and multicultural regions such as Vancouver, where understanding and respecting different cultural backgrounds play a key role in delivering inclusive and effective care. In healthcare, these competencies, particularly problem-solving under pressure and conflict resolution, are crucial for effective service delivery.

Beyond service management, there are several areas within the healthcare system where hospitality professionals can add significant value, including housekeeping, food services, and sustainability practices such as waste management.

Overall, hospitality has the potential to become a strong and strategic partner within the healthcare system, contributing meaningfully to both operational efficiency and patient-centred care.

What are you most excited about in your current role and company?

I have reached a point in my life where I want to feel that the world is a little better after each day of my work. I strive to make a meaningful impact by touching lives, fostering empathy, supporting others, and knowing that I have given my very best.

In my current role, I have direct contact with patients and their families, and it is incredibly rewarding to be able to bring compassion into each interaction and contribute positively to their experience.

What advice would you give to current FDU Vancouver students or fellow alumni?

My advice to students and fellow alumni of FDU would be to look within themselves and identify something they are truly passionate about. Seek what motivates you and brings out your best potential. It is not always an easy process, but education has the power to expand your perspective, and often, when you least expect it, you discover what truly drives you.

Most importantly, do not stop searching. Continue striving for that “something more,” as meaningful and rewarding opportunities will undoubtedly lie ahead.

Building on this strong connection between industries, FDU Vancouver has recently launched the Master of Hospitality Management Studies (MHMS) with a Healthcare Hospitality concentration, further empowering future leaders to bridge these two essential fields.
go to Vancouver news