30, Sep 2023
MIT-WPU Researchers make a breakthrough discovery of a new damselfly species in Southwestern Ghats of Kerala

New Delhi, 30 September 2023: In a remarkable discovery that sheds light on the critical state of our planet’s ecosystems, MIT-WPU researchers have introduced the world to the ‘Armageddon Reedtail -Protosticta Armageddonia ‘ a newly unearthed damselfly species. This new species, with its ominous moniker, serves as a stark reminder of the ecological crisis our world faces due to rampant habitat loss and climate change. Experts are using this discovery as a powerful call to action for world leaders, urging them to address the urgent issues of global warming and their catastrophic impact on biodiversity.
The revelation of this newfound species has been officially documented in the esteemed International Journal of Odonatology, a publication affiliated with the Worldwide Dragonfly Association based in the United States. Furthermore, the discovery has been meticulously recorded and registered with the Zoological Survey of India, Pune office, underscoring its significance in the scientific community. The daring expedition team, comprising the expertise of Dr. Pankaj Koparde, Assistant Professor, Department of Environmental Studies at MIT-WPU, the research prowess of Arajush Payra, a dedicated PhD Scholar at MIT-WPU, the enthusiasm of Ameya Deshpande, an accomplished MSc Environmental Science Student at MIT-WPU, and the keen eye of Reji Chandran, a seasoned Wildlife Photographer hailing from Kerala, played a pivotal role in this momentous achievement.
The newfound species exhibits a captivating dark brown to black body with vibrant greenish-blue eyes, and it features delicate pale blue markings on half of its eight abdominal segments. Its exclusive habitat choice is primary montane streams, where it thrives beneath dense canopy cover. The name Armageddon Reedtail is a direct reference to the concept of “Ecological Armageddon,” a term used to describe the devastating decline of insect populations around the world. This phenomenon, often referred to as the “Insect Apocalypse,” has far-reaching consequences for entire ecosystems, as insects play crucial roles in pollination, nutrient cycling, and as a food source for other animals.
Dr. Pankaj Koparde, Asst. Prof at MIT-WPU and Lead Researcher for the Armageddon Reedtail discovery, underscores the gravity: “The naming of this new species is not merely an academic exercise; it’s a desperate plea for attention. Just as this species faces the threat of extinction due to habitat loss and changing environmental conditions, countless other endemic and endangered insects are on the brink of vanishing forever. We are standing on the precipice of an ecological catastrophe, and urgent action is needed to reverse this course. We need a collaborative effort involving scientists, conservationists, policymakers, and the public to combat climate change and protect our planet’s biodiversity.”
Mr. Reji Chandran, a prominent wildlife photographer and team member who first spotted the species, echoed Dr. Koparde’s sentiments, stating, “I have seen the forests of the Western Ghats change rapidly due to rampant development and habitat loss. The discovery of Armageddon Reedtail serves as a symbolic representation of the broader crisis we are facing and we need to do something about it before it’s too late.”
“The new Protosticta species is different from its congeners based on various morphological features. Keying it out was a difficult task but we now have a clarity about its taxonomy. I believe that our discovery will be a milestone in Indian odonatology,” concluded Arajush Payra, PhD Scholar, MIT-WPU, entomologist and lead author.
The case of Armageddon Reedtail serves as a solemn reminder that we are at a crossroads. The choices we make now will determine the fate of countless species and the health of our planet for generations to come. It’s a call to action that resonates not only within the scientific community but with every individual concerned about the future of our world.
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- By Rabindra
30, Sep 2023
6th Manipal Marathon in 2024: Running for a Noble Cause – Hospice Care

Bengaluru, Karnataka, September 30, 2023 – The Manipal Academy of Higher Education proudly announces the highly anticipated 6th edition of the Manipal Marathon, scheduled to take place on February 11th, 2024. This year, the Marathon embraces a poignant theme: Hospice Care for People Living with Life-Limiting Illnesses. Under the rallying cry “We are with you all the way,” this event promises to captivate participants from around the world, fostering a vibrant and festive ambiance that transcends cultural boundaries, all while championing a noble cause. Manipal Marathon anticipates welcoming approximately 15,000 runners across diverse age categories. In previous editions, runners representing countries such as Ethiopia, Germany, Kenya, England, Nepal, Malaysia, USA, and Sri Lanka have graced the event. The upcoming 2024 edition promises to attract even more international talent.
Dr. H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, underlined the unifying power of running, stating, “The 6th Manipal Marathon in 2024 is more than just a race; it’s a platform where the global community unites to support the noble cause of Hospice care. With the tagline ‘We are with you all the way,’ we extend a warm invitation to runners and enthusiasts worldwide to join us in this exhilarating event. Together, we can create a profound impact on the lives of those in need of palliative care, upholding their dignity and honor.”
Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, shared his excitement, “As the Vice Chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, I am pleased to announce that the Manipal Marathon’s route offers participants a unique opportunity not only to challenge their physical limits but also to immerse themselves in the breathtaking coastal beauty of Manipal and Udupi. The scenic route, featuring the stunning Malpe Beach, adds an extra layer of excitement to this prestigious event. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a beginner, our diverse categories, including the untimed 3k fun run and the challenging 42K, ensure there’s a race for everyone.”
Mr. Ragupathi Bhat, Honorary Advisor of the Udupi District Amateur Athletics Association, and an ex-member of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, expressed his wholehearted support for the Manipal Marathon, stating, “As someone who has witnessed the power of sports and community involvement, I am delighted to see the Manipal Marathon continue to grow and evolve. This event not only promotes a healthy and active lifestyle but also serves a higher purpose by raising awareness about Hospice care.”
Dr. Naveen Salins, Associate Dean of Kasturba Medical College and Head of the Palliative and Hospice Care Centre at KH Manipal, shared insights about the new Hospice project and the theme of the Manipal Marathon, stating, “As we embark on this exciting journey with the 6th Manipal Marathon in 2024, I am deeply honored to share our vision for the future of Hospice care. The Manipal Marathon’s theme, focusing on Hospice care, aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing compassionate and dignified care to those in need. Our new Hospice project aims to transform the landscape of palliative care, ensuring that individuals facing life-limiting illnesses receive the physical, emotional, and spiritual support they deserve. We believe that the marathon’s theme will not only raise awareness but also drive the necessary support for this vital cause. Together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of patients and their families, offering them comfort, solace, and hope.”
Mr. Mahesh Thakur, Vice President of the Karnataka State Athletic Association, extended his heartfelt congratulations to Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Mr. Kemparaj, President of Udupi District Amateur Athletics Association, conveyed his pride in being a part of the Manipal Marathon’s journey,
Dr. Vinod Nayak, Secretary of Sports Council, MAHE, welcomed all the gathering, and Arch. Monika Jadhav offered a vote of thanks. What sets the Manipal Marathon apart are its enticing perks and features, including generous prize money, a festive carnival atmosphere, delectable cuisine, and a wealth of Marathon goodies for all. Stay tuned, as registrations for the Manipal Marathon 2024 will be opening soon. Join us in this thrilling event that combines the spirit of athleticism with a heartfelt commitment to making a positive impact on our society.
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30, Sep 2023
Simplilearn and The University of Massachusetts Host a Joint Convocation to Celebrate the Achievements of 800 Graduates
Mumbai, September 30, 2023: Simplilearn, the world’s #1 online bootcamp for digital economy skills training, hosted a joint convocation ceremony with The University of Massachusetts for 800 post-graduates. Gracing the event with their presence were Professor Joseph Bartolomeo, The University of Massachusetts, as the Chief Guest and Dr. Will Lin, Chief Marketing Officer of Simplilearn, as the Guest of Honour.
The convocation ceremony was held to felicitate the meritorious students on their accomplishments. It was a joint celebration by The University of Massachusetts and Simplilearn on successfully completing the various postgraduate programs of learners from 21 cohorts. The learners came from PG Programs in Lean Six Sigma, Project Management, and Design Thinking and innovation. The convocation ceremony was filled with enthusiastic learners excited about their successful graduation.
Congratulating the students on their achievement, Dr. Will Lin, Chief Marketing Officer, Simplilearn, said, “I am pleased to be amongst this group of dedicated learners today, who are actively pursuing their academic and professional aspirations. It brings me great joy to witness their educational journeys and I extend my heartfelt congratulations on their successful completion of diverse post-graduate programs. On behalf of Simplilearn, I commend your unwavering commitment and achievements. As you venture onto your chosen paths, may you perpetuate your curiosity, champion innovation, and have an impactful career ahead.”
Addressing the post-graduates at the convocation, Professor Joseph Bartolomeo, The University of Massachusetts, said, “We are here to celebrate the graduation of exceptional students and to honor their unwavering dedication and commitment. Today, as you complete one chapter and begin another in your life’s journey, we applaud your resolve, resilience, and determined pursuit of excellence. We hope this experience is another step forward in lives and careers filled with achievement, continuous upskilling, and boundless opportunities. Congratulations to all!”
Learner Mr. Abhijith. J. H., shared, “This program has transformed my career journey. Starting as an Assistant Manager at Lords Hospital in Kerala, India, I aimed for professional excellence and this well-curated program was the effective catalyst to this successful transformation. In pursuit of my dream to have an international college on my resume, thanks to Simplilearn I am today able to have this certification from UMass Amherst, a mighty stepping stone to limitless career opportunities.
Now relocating to the UAE, I excel in a dynamic, multinational work environment. I deeply appreciate Simplilearn’s commitment to professional development that has been a guiding force in my career advancement. I look forward to continued growth and success, armed with the knowledge and expertise acquired through this program. The future is boundless, and I am ready to embrace it with determination and confidence.”
29, Sep 2023
University of Melbourne launches Global Alumni Ambassadors Program

Bengaluru , 29th September 2023: The University of Melbourne, Australia’s leading university and ranked 14th globally, has launched its Alumni Network and Melbourne Global Alumni Ambassadors Program in India as part of a week-long series of events to deepen engagement with students and stakeholders across the country.
The University’s Indian alumni cohort is one of the largest global alumni communities residing outside of Australia. The India Alumni Network and Ambassadors program will provide new opportunities for local alumni to connect with each other, expand their networks and grow community engagement initiatives across several cities within India.
The program was launched during the University’s senior academic engagement delegation to India in September, led by the University of Melbourne Provost, Professor Nicola Phillips. Professor Phillips, the standing deputy to the Vice-Chancellor and the Chief Academic Officer of the University, scheduled her first institutional visit to India as Provost to coincide with a number of important education partnership meetings and celebrations.
“The University of Melbourne takes great pride in the strong partnerships developed in India and it has been my privilege to see for myself the mutual benefit, capability build, and impact we are creating together,” said Professor Phillips.
During the launch of the Ambassadors Program and addressing a major cohort of India-based University alumni, Nick Blinco, Vice-President Advancement, Communications and Marketing noted the Australia-India connection is one of the most important international relationships for the University of Melbourne, which is committed to supporting India’s education agenda.
“We want to build a highly engaged and supportive Alumni community to share their wealth of knowledge and experience with Indian students and community stakeholders. The Global Ambassadors program will provide local alumni with new opportunities to connect with each other and for the University to have broader impact.” Mr Blinco said.
During the delegation, University alumni and academics have been meeting with prospective students at a series of events across Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore to provide opportunities to learn more about research and learning at the University. This senior Faculty cohort from the University has also been meeting with a number of research and higher education institutions to look at opportunities for capacity building and enablement across a number of industry sectors.
“With our multi-city event series, we are looking to showcase the distinctiveness of our unique curriculum and research expertise in collaboration with students, alumni and our higher education partner community in India,” said Mr Blinco.
The University of Melbourne has established many long-term partnerships with esteemed Indian varsities. The University’s ambition has been to partner across the learning lifecycle, and co-design and pilot programs that enable a scalable approach to provide as many Indian students as possible with education opportunities.
Earlier this year, the University launched a new Bachelor of Science Dual Degree program with four esteemed public and private university partners, SPPU, University of Madras, GITAM University and Shoolini University. The program enables students to complete their Bachelor of Science and a corresponding master’s degree, with the first two years spent at their home institution and then two years on campus in Melbourne.
The institution will also expand its presence in India next year, with the establishment of a Global Centre in Delhi to build on existing engagements in-country. The facility will enable the institution to showcase its full range of educational courses, research programs and host events such as lecture series, cultural performances and exhibitions.
28, Sep 2023
XITE College Organizes 2 Day National Conference on Entrepreneurship

XITE College, one of Jamshedpur’s premier institutions is going to conduct a 2 day National Conference on the theme “Entrepreneurship in India – Issues and Challenges”, on 30th September and 1st October, 2023. This is the second National Conference organized by the College. The conference is sponsored by ICSSR-ERC and aims to bring together entrepreneurs; both potential and in practice, funding agencies, academicians and industry professionals on the same platform to learn, network and explore the current issues and challenges for entrepreneurs in India and to deliberate on measures to promote its development. The conference has received overwhelming response and erudite contributions from academicians and scholars who will present their research both in offline and online mode over the two days of the conference. Sri Manoj Kumar, Vice- Chancellor, Kolhan University, Chaibasa has kindly agreed to be the Chief Guest for the event. Dr. Jayant Shekhar, Registrar, Kolhan University, Chaibasa will be the Guest of Honour. Dr. Indrajit Mukherjee, Professor, XLRI Jamshedpur will deliver the Keynote Speech. Senior faculty of colleges in Jamshedpur and Kolkata will Chair the different sessions of the conference presentations. Expert academicians from various colleges in Jamshedpur and Chaibasa are a part of the Core Advisory Committee and General Advisory Body for the Conference. The Conference Proceedings with an ISBN number will be launched during the inaugural ceremony and distributed to the participants on the same day.
The two day event will be held at the XITE Campus in Gamharia. The inaugural ceremony will be available on live telecast and online participants will be able to join the ceremony virtually.
27, Sep 2023
Unstop launches Unstop Pro, incentivizing student learning and upskilling

New Delhi, September, 27 2023: Unstop, a category-creating community engagement and hiring platform that connects students and graduates with opportunities, has introduced Unstop Pro, a subscription membership which offers premium benefits through an annual plan. Unstop Pro is subscription membership, like no other. The membership has a kit of six, exclusive features specially curated to help Unstop’s users learn and excel.
This comprehensive package includes access to 50+ courses across domains lasting 1000+ hours, exclusive discounts on mentorship sessions with 750+ experienced professionals, exclusive solutions to a wide range of tests, from coding sprints to aptitude tests, exclusive access to masterclasses by industry experts worth INR 2,400 and rewards worth ~INR 7,200.
Further, Unstop Pro’s subscribers gain exclusive access to a one-year subscription to OTT Play, which offers immersive content from 8 popular OTT platforms, including SonyLIV, FanCode, CuriosityStream, and others. Subscribers will also get coupons from top brands like Puma, GIVA, Bombay Shaving Company, Snitch, Beardo, Zoomcar, etc.
Unstop Pro is a reflection of Unstop’s unwavering ongoing commitment to students’ personal and professional growth. It bridges the gap between skills and industry demands, aligning learners with the opportunities they deserve. Unstop Pro will serve as the ultimate companion for students as they embark on their journey to success.
Ankit Aggarwal, Founder and CEO of Unstop, commented, “We are pleased to announce the launch of our subscription membership, Unstop Pro. A sportsperson cannot become the best from day one. Success is a long journey, but a highly rewarding one. Unstop Pro is a significant addition to the playground of opportunities being offered at Unstop. In today’s competitive landscape, it is important for students and young professionals to get a chance to explore diverse domains and find where their interests and passions lie. After collaborating with 800+ brands, we know exactly what the right talent means for recruiters, and that offered critical insights in creating this product.”
With the annual subscription plan priced at an unbelievably affordable INR 1,999, Unstop Pro equips individuals in the community with the tools, skills, and knowledge required to excel in their chosen fields, making them truly unstoppable.
Unstop Pro can be preordered from 22nd September 2023 through an early bird offer of INR 1,799 and the complete launch will follow in early October.
27, Sep 2023
IDP Education partners with State Bank of India to facilitate international student education loans

New Delhi, 27th September 2023 – IDP Education, the leader in international education services, signed an agreement with the State Bank of India (SBI), the country’s largest lender, to assist students seeking education loans for their overseas studies.
The collaboration between IDP Education and the State Bank of India signifies an important step forward in the international education sector, as two industry leaders combine their expertise and simplify the financing journey for aspiring students pursuing education abroad.
The agreement was signed by Mr Piyush Kumar, Regional Director – South Asia and Mauritius, IDP Education, and Mr Pankaj Kumar Jha, Deputy General Manager (Personal Loans) SBI, and was graced by the presence of Mr Janmejoy Mohanty, Chief General Manager (Personal Banking), and Mrs Suman Lata Gupta, General Manager (Retail Asset- Personal Banking) from SBI.
Mr Piyush Kumar, Regional Director – South Asia and Mauritius, IDP Education, said, “We are proud to partner with the State Bank of India, the most trusted and the oldest bank in the country. This agreement reflects our commitment to provide the best-in-class services to all the overseas education aspirants of the country. This partnership will make obtaining financial assistance to study abroad a lot simpler and more accessible for countless young minds.”
Mr Janmejoy Mohanty, Chief General Manager, SBI, said, “We are delighted to collaborate with IDP Education. Through this strategic partnership, SBI is poised to create a seamless and supportive pathway for students to achieve their global education dreams.”
IDP Education is a one-stop solution for all the study abroad needs, from course selection to college/university choice, assisting a student with their visa process, helping them with accommodation, scholarship options, education loans, etc. IDP has already established a strong partnership with ICICI Bank and HDFC Credila. With the newly formed alliance with SBI, IDP students will now have a range of options to choose education loan assistance from the top players in the education financing segment.
27, Sep 2023
Easterseals Announces Expansion of Early Intervention and Educational Programming in Hillsborough County

Tampa, FL (September 27, 2023) – Finding services to support children with developmental challenges can be frustrating for caregivers. In response to this pressing need, Easterseals is pleased to announce the expansion of its programs in Hillsborough County. The nonprofit, which is dedicated to creating equity, inclusion, and access for people with disabilities, is now enrolling families in its The Incredible Years® program and is introducing a new private school, the Easterseals School for Limitless Learning, coming to the Bloomingdale area in mid-2024.
THE INCREDIBLE YEARS WITH EASTERSEALS
Enrollment is open for The Incredible Years® with Easterseals, a free group therapy program for caregivers and children ages three to eight years old, with the next session beginning on October 6, 2023, at the Brandon Children’s Board Family Resource Center. Interested families can register online at https://tinyurl.com/incredible years hills borough, and future locations will be added based on demand.
Amanda Lopez, Program Manager for The Incredible Years® with Easterseals, said, “This evidence-based group therapy program is a blessing to our community. The curriculum provided by Incredible Years has been life-changing to the families we have already served in our first few cohorts. Children are able to learn about their emotions and make friends in their small groups, and the caregivers are able to build strategies to strengthen their parenting skills and the bond they have with their child. We are seeing happier families, increased confidence in the caregivers served, and children with healthier coping skills.”
Generously funded by The Children’s Board of Hillsborough County, The Incredible Years® with Easterseals program is designed to strengthen child well-being, promote social-emotional learning and academic competence, and prevent, reduce, and treat behavioral and emotional problems in young children.
Families enroll in a 14-week session that meets once a week. In the caregiver-focused group, participants work on strengthening parent-child relationships, increasing parenting strategies, and building community support. Held simultaneously, the child group concentrates on teaching self-control skills, problem-solving strategies, and ways for participants to positively express emotions. The Incredible Years® program also includes a home education component.
Interested families are encouraged to email IncredibleYears@fl.easterseals.com or call 813-836-4739 with any questions.
As more and more families register for The Incredible Years® program, Easterseals is working to open more locations throughout Hillsborough County. Easterseals is also actively recruiting for a Bilingual Family Support Specialist.
In addition to programs like The Incredible Years®, Easterseals is bringing even more early intervention and educational services to the local community.
EASTERSEALS SCHOOL FOR LIMITLESS LEARNING
Easterseals is thrilled to introduce the School for Limitless Learning, a brand-new private school that will serve children who are neurodiverse or have other related disabilities, coming to the Bloomingdale area in mid-2024. The campus, which is currently under construction, will be located at the BayCare Health Hub at 2470 Bloomingdale Avenue in Valrico.
Easterseals School for Limitless Learning will include two specialized programs, a lower elementary program and an early childhood program. The goal of the private school is to provide an inclusive and supportive learning environment, designed to help special needs students reach developmental milestones through hands-on activities.
Jenn Siffermann, Vice President of Programs, said, “Parents and caregivers of children who have autism, or any other type of developmental or learning challenges, are too often told what their child’s limitations are. At Easterseals, we focus on supporting a child’s ability to reach their full potential with limitless learning opportunities.”
The curriculum at the Easterseals School for Limitless Learning will be based on the DIRFloortime® model, which is widely regarded as an effective approach to support children with autism. The objective of the DIR® is to build healthy foundations for social, emotional, and intellectual capacities, rather than solely focusing on skills and isolated behaviors. Teachers in both school programs will be trained in DIRFloortime®.
Operating on a 10-month school year, the lower elementary program in the Easterseals School for Limitless Learning will serve children who are neurodiverse or have other related disabilities in the age range of preschool to second grade. Small class sizes will ensure personalized attention, and the connection, play-based curriculum, led by state-certified teachers, will keep students engaged.
The Easterseals School for Limitless Learning’s early childhood program will operate year-round and will provide classrooms for children with and without diagnosed disabilities, who are six weeks of age through three years old. In addition to DIRFloortime®, this program will utilize the Frog Street Curriculum to foster cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development.
The Easterseals School for Limitless Learning will also offer nutritionally balanced meals and snacks, before and after-school care, care during school breaks, and summer programs. The private school will feature a state-of-the-art indoor sensory room, an outdoor boundless playground, and a secure campus.
Registration for the school’s first summer enrichment program for preschool to second grade is planned for spring 2024, along with the opening of enrollment for the child development program.
The lower elementary program is slated to open next fall for the 2024-2025 school year, with enrollment dates to be announced.
27, Sep 2023
Boutique Group Signs MoU with Sommet Education
India, 27 September 2023: Boutique Group, a hospitality company fully owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, merging the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s culture and heritage with contemporary elegance to develop historic and cultural places into ultra-luxury boutique hotels, has signed an MoU with Sommet Education, a leading international network of hospitality management and culinary arts schools. Sommet Education encompasses prestigious institutions such as Swiss originated hospitality business schools Glion Institute of Higher Education and Les Roches, together with culinary and pastry arts school École Ducasse.
Boutique Group is a one-of-a-kind hospitality company developed to deliver a unique ultra-luxury Saudi experience that contributes to the local economy and enhances the Kingdom’s position as a leading cultural tourism destination in line with the Vision 2030. The collaboration between Boutique Group and Sommet Education will focus on three main areas: training programs, recruitment, and internships.
Sommet Education will support Boutique Group through customized and bespoke training pathways, enabling Boutique Group employees to benefit from Sommet Education’s vast experience in crafting hospitality programs, tailored to the talent development of the company’s employees.
As Boutique Group continues to recruit talent, locally and internationally, Sommet Education has the opportunity to play a significant role through its established network to ensure that the unique talents from its Hospitality schools join the Boutique Group’s team.
Boutique Group will offer internship programs for students, providing them with invaluable hands-on training and experience. In turn this will help to establish a talent network, ensuring a flow of passionate individuals who are familiar with the company’s ethos and standards.
CEO of Boutique Group Mark De Concinis, and CEO of Sommet Education Benoît-Etienne Domenget met in Abu Dhabi at the Future Hospitality Summit and Arabian Hospitality Investment Conference 2023, to sign the MoU on September 26th, 2023. Boutique Group is a platinum sponsor of FHS & AHIC 2023, an international platform where the world’s most influential hospitality investment decision makers connect, exchange knowledge and explore new partnerships, making the venue a fitting place to solidify the agreement.
Mark De Cocinis, CEO, Boutique Group, said: “Partnering with Sommet Education was a natural next step for us. Their commitment to delivering top-tier hospitality management and culinary arts schooling directly aligns with our goals of cultivating industry professionals and fuels my enthusiasm for fostering Saudi talents. Through innovative training, we aim to nurture possibility and inspire the visionaries who will drive our industry forward.”
Sommet Education is a leading international network of hospitality management and culinary arts schools offering the highest quality of education and training, aligning with industry best practices and standards. It is the only education group with two in the Top 5 globally-ranked institutions for hospitality education and by employer reputation (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023).
Benoît-Etienne Domenget, CEO of Sommet Education, said: “We are excited about our collaboration with novel pioneers, Boutique Group, as it enhances our potential to revolutionize how hospitality professionals are developed. We spark new heights of greatness for generations of leaders via collaborative programs that combine our recognized expertise.”
Signing the MoU confirms the expansion of an already fruitful partnership. Boutique Group previously engaged the educational institution to deliver Medh’Yaf – a hospitality immersion program that focused on the luxury hospitality landscape, techniques to develop and bring to life cultural heritage, and how to deliver the ultra-luxury experience, to more than 70 of their employees.

27, Sep 2023
Food with Spirit by Las Vegas Chef Alicia Shevetone, now available from Histria Books
Histria Books is pleased to announce the release of Food with Spirit: Alcohol Infused Recipes by Alicia Shevetone. This beautiful full-color book is published by Gaudium Publishing, an imprint of Histria Books dedicated to outstanding works of non-fiction in a variety of fields.
Food With Spirit is the latest book from Las Vegas chef, author, and television personality Alicia Shevetone. The book takes a unique approach that meets a need often overlooked by modern cookbooks — cooking for one or two without creating massive amounts of leftovers and without sacrificing flavor. Food With Spirit features fifty recipes spread across five sections — Appetizers, Soups, Entrees, Sides, and Desserts. Each is complemented with beautiful photos. All fifty recipes are infused with some of our favorite intoxicants, from spiced rum to the smooth flavors of cognac.
Pop icon Tiffany says, “Alicia’s cookbook brings fun to everyday cooking and instant entertaining. Easy recipes with flare! I love the cranberry recipe as a side or a topping, and the finesse of the Russian beet soup – ingredients that most of us have in our kitchen, yet this recipe turns into something fantastic and not the norm. This cookbook is truly a gem to any kitchen.”
Chef Shawn McClain, three-time James Beard Award winner, praises Alicia’s “Delicious worldly-inspired recipes that are sure to be a hit-whether for a small dinner for 2 or for a party of 50! Alicia has a creative knack for bringing great flavors to life. She incorporates so many global influences while infusing spirits into tried and true favorites. From start to finish, Alicia takes you on a creative and successful journey to letting spirits shine within approachable and gettable recipes.”
Food with Spirit, by Alicia Shevetone, 124 pp., ISBN 978-1-59211-311-8, is available at HistriaBooks.com and from all major book retailers. The book is also available as an eBook. Titles published under the various imprints of Histria Books are distributed worldwide by the Independent Publishers Group (IPG). For information on publishing with Histria Books, please visit HistriaBooks.com or contact us at info@histriabooks.com