Cedar Fair and BGSU introduce new pilot internship and leadership training programs

Partnership designed to develop and implement training programs for full-time and seasonal supervisors, help expand pipeline of well-trained and service-oriented employees.

Friday, 03 May 2013

Cedar Fair Press Release

SANDUSKY, Ohio, May 2, 2013 -- Cedar Fair Entertainment Company (NYSE: FUN), a leader in regional amusement parks, water parks and active entertainment, today announced a new partnership with Bowling Green State University to introduce internship and leadership training programs. The partnership with both campuses is designed to develop and implement training programs for full-time and seasonal supervisors and help expand the Company's pipeline of well-trained and service-oriented employees. The pilot programs also will enhance the overall BGSU collegiate experience, giving students the opportunity to bring classroom skills and theories to life at the "Best Amusement Park in the World."

"We have always had a strong relationship with BGSU and are thrilled to announce this partnership that will help us achieve our objectives of recruiting and retaining high-quality personnel," said Matt Ouimet, Cedar Fair's president and chief executive officer. "Strong leadership is crucial in the hospitality industry, as a leader has a major effect on our employees' performance and thus, the quality of our guests' experience at our parks and properties. We welcome the opportunity to provide real-life leadership experience to the students of BGSU while working toward our goal of providing every guest with a great experience," said Ouimet.

In conjunction with the joint announcement, Ouimet addressed full-time and seasonal Cedar Point staff, as well as current BGSU students and faculty, on the leadership lessons he has accumulated throughout his career. "It is important that along with creating a legacy of great rides and attractions, we leave a legacy of great leaders," Ouimet concluded.

William Balzer, Ph.D., Dean of BGSU Firelands College, said, "The partnership of Cedar Fair and BGSU, through its new Center of Excellence for Developing Effective Businesses and Organizations, brings together two strong, regional presences, giving our students a real-world laboratory to put classroom theories into practice and gain invaluable on-the-job experiences."