Inn at Laurel Point has been named 2023 Camosun Co-op Employer of the Year

Released: April 8, 2024 | Last Updated: April 26, 2024

Story Community Co-operative Education and Careers

ILP Director of HR, Julie Wright (fourth from the left) with Camosun students

Located in downtown Victoria, the Inn at Laurel Point is known for its genuine hospitality and stunning views of the city’s famous Inner Harbour. It provides enriching experiences for co-op students and fosters meaningful partnerships with educational institutions. In 2023, the Inn proudly welcomed aboard 12 co-op students, marking the highest number of placements by a single employer. This remarkable feat is a testament to its support for the next generation of hospitality professionals. Inn at Laurel Point distinguished itself among numerous nominees for its commitment to inclusivity, mentorship, and fostering a culture of continuous learning.

“The Co-op Employer of the Year Award recognizes the unwavering support offered by Inn at Laurel Point for providing students from Camosun College with the space to develop their skills and showcase their work. Thank you for your commitment to experiential learning and helping to shape the next generation of hospitality and tourism professionals.”
– Dr. Lane Trotter, President of Camosun College

Dr. Lane Trotter, President of Camosun College, said: “The Co-op Employer of the Year Award recognizes the unwavering support offered by Inn at Laurel Point for providing students from Camosun College with the space to develop their skills and showcase their work. Thank you for your commitment to experiential learning and helping to shape the next generation of hospitality and tourism professionals.”

Despite the challenges faced by the hospitality industry including during the COVID-19 pandemic, the property has prioritized hiring Camosun students, demonstrating flexibility, open communication, and creativity in their efforts. Inn at Laurel Point's proactive approach extended to hosting networking and interviewing clinics, career fairs, and field trips for hospitality management classes, as well as participating in Camosun's refugee educational pilot project.

Sarah-Joy Kallos, Co-op Internship Coordinator for Hospitality and Tourism Programs at Camosun College, emphasized the remarkable qualities that led to the Inn's nomination and subsequent win. "The Inn at Laurel Point has consistently shown a deep understanding of the needs of co-op students, providing them with mentorship, guidance, and a culture of learning that extends beyond the classroom," Kallos stated.

Inn at Laurel Point's commitment to fostering industry-academic partnerships is evident through its active involvement in Camosun's departmental program advisory committee. This longstanding collaboration is a testament to the property's historical connection with the Hospitality and Tourism program at Camosun College.

Students who had the privilege of working at the Inn shared their testimonials, highlighting the supportive atmosphere, diverse workforce, and opportunities for professional growth. From mentorship provided by experienced colleagues to the inclusive workplace culture that values every team member, the Inn at Laurel Point has impacted the lives and careers of co-op students.;

Jeffery Ko, one of the co-op students who experienced firsthand the enriching environment at the Inn, shared his gratitude. "The Inn at Laurel Point was able to help me understand what it was like to be behind the scenes of the hospitality industry. From the front of the house that greets and registers the guest, to the back of the house that maintains electricals and room cleanliness; I had the opportunity to experience it all,” said Ko. "Working at the Inn at Laurel Point has been an exhilarating experience. I have discovered it to be the nicest workplace I have worked in, with a culture that promotes equality and kindness among colleagues," he added.

The Inn at Laurel Point is also at the forefront of regenerative tourism, setting an example for sustainability in the hospitality industry. Since 2009, the property has maintained carbon neutrality and actively promotes environmental stewardship. With its dedicated SustaINN Team, the Inn engages employees in initiatives aligned with the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

In addition to being recognized as the Camosun Co-op Employer of the Year, the Inn at Laurel Point was honored with the Association for Cooperative Education and Work Integrated Learning BC/Yukon ACEWIL 2023 Industry Partner of the Year award. This award recognizes organizations that demonstrate exemplary commitment to collaboration with academic institutions and innovation in work-integrated learning practices at the Provincial level.

"Inn at Laurel Point isn't just a hotel; it's a supportive community where co-op students find their footing,” remarked Claudia Sperling, Applied Learning, Co-op Education and Career Services Director at Camosun College. “At Camosun, we're proud to partner with Inn at Laurel Point in cultivating meaningful experiences for our co-op students. Together, we prioritize hands-on learning and personal growth, ensuring our students emerge not just with skills, but with a deep understanding of what it means to excel in the hospitality industry,” she added.

Joslin Martin, Human Resources Manager at Inn at Laurel Point, shared her experience working with co-op students. “Co-op students are very close to my heart, I have always loved working with them. I was just like them once upon a time and I had great mentors and teachers who got me excited about this industry. I feel it is time to give back and instill the same excitement and enthusiasm in the next generation. The first work experience and the initial teachings you receive as a student mold the rest of your career. And at the Inn, we aim and are proud to be able give them that right start.”

Hire a Camosun student

If your organization is interested in hiring Camosun students for work terms, please get in touch with the Co-operative Education and Career Services department at EducationThatWorks@camosun.ca.