Where Are They Now? | Hannah Forlenzo
Hannah Forlenzo, a past recipient of a Connecticut Hospitality Educational Foundation (CHEF) scholarship, is thriving in her career and continuing to inspire the next generation of hospitality professionals. A graduate of the University of New Haven’s Hospitality & Tourism Management (HTM) program, Hannah currently serves as the HTM Food & Beverage, Hazell Nut Café, and Special Events Operations Manager in the university’s Pompea College of Business.
Hannah’s journey in the hospitality world began early. A proud graduate of Platt Technical High School’s culinary arts program, she was drawn to the kitchen through time spent baking with her family. That passion evolved into a small business she still runs today: Hannah’s Bake Shop, which she started back in high school. From wedding cakes to chocolate-covered strawberries, Hannah’s confections continue to bring joy to customers across Connecticut—especially during Valentine’s Day, when she crafts more than a dozen batches of custom sweets.
In addition to her full-time role at the University of New Haven, Hannah has also worked for the past six years as a bartender at the Milford Yacht Club, where she’s had the opportunity to serve high-profile events and create memorable experiences for guests. From luxury car dealership parties to multicultural weddings, she credits this hands-on experience with helping her develop strong networking and problem-solving skills.
At UNH, her work spans three main areas: teaching hospitality electives like Food & Culture and Mixology, managing the student-run Hazell Nut Café, and overseeing logistics and support for the department’s food and beverage courses. She also plays a key role in guiding teaching assistants and planning practical coursework that reflects real-world industry demands. Hannah is especially proud of the diversity within the university’s programs, where she’s nearly completed her own MBA, and the opportunity it’s given her to learn from students around the world.
Reflecting on her career so far, Hannah says the hospitality industry has taught her resilience, confidence, and adaptability. Her advice to students interested in following a similar path? “Put yourself out there. Get a job in food or beverage, and just go for it. It’s a great way to start building your communication and problem-solving skills—skills you’ll use no matter where life takes you.”
From baker to educator, bartender to operations manager, Hannah Forlenzo’s story is a reminder of where passion and persistence can lead.