From Classroom Insights to Industry Inspiration: Vanessa Tierney Visits Spa Management Students
HLOs: 
By Marion Le Gall, Esthetician/Spa Management Professor
As a professor in the Esthetician/Spa Management diploma program, one of the most rewarding experiences is seeing students connect classroom learning with real-world industry insights. Students in the BSPA 209: Spa Business Operations 1 class had the privilege of welcoming my friend and colleague Vanessa Tierney, a seasoned spa and luxury hospitality professional, to share her expertise on exceptional customer care in spa environments.
Vanessa’s visit went far beyond a traditional lecture, it was an immersive learning experience. She shared stories from her career, from beginning on a cruise ship to managing the Kananaskis Spa in Alberta, and later 124 Spa on Queen in Niagara-on-the-Lake. She highlighted best practices in client service and offered strategies for creating memorable, personalized experiences for every guest. Students were engaged as she explored the subtle nuances that transform spa services from routine to exceptional, illustrating the power of empathy, attentiveness, and professionalism in building lasting client relationships.
Her session inspired students to reflect on how they will craft meaningful experiences in their own spa practices and emphasized the importance of going beyond technical skill to truly connect with clients. It was a timely reminder that exceptional customer care is at the heart of every successful spa professional’s career.
Visits like Vanessa’s exemplify Humber’s commitment to connecting students with industry leaders, providing insights that extend far beyond the classroom. Students left the session energized, motivated, and ready to bring the principles of excellence and client-centered care into their future work. A sincere thank you to Vanessa for commuting from so far and sharing her expertise with our students.
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