Department Archives: Themed Experience

As a performance coordinator at Universal Orlando Resort, Christian Spencer ’23 ’26MS is applying the unique insight he’s developed through UCF’s hospitality management and themed experience programs to elevate guest experiences.

Faculty, staff, and students from the College of Arts and Humanities are being recognized at UCF’s Founders Day on April 1.

Director of Themed Experience Peter Weishar has received the 2025 North America “Inspiration” Individual Achievement Award from the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA).

The collaboration aims to address a long-standing gap in how students enter one of Florida’s fastest-growing creative industries. Florida has long been a global center for themed entertainment, but for many students hoping to enter the industry, the path can feel unclear. Spanning storytelling, architecture, engineering, media, operations, and production, today’s immersive experiences demand skills […]

Now retired and teaching at the University of Central Florida, David Hoffman spent 35 years across numerous roles with Walt Disney Imagineering Florida, the creative design arm for The Walt Disney Co. “At one point during my career at Imagineering, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster was right outside of my office,” Hoffman said. “I would start my day by riding it. As part of my show quality role, I had to make sure it was show-ready.”

A UCF alum and themed experience expert shares five key insights every student should know about storytelling.

Following a 35-year career with Walt Disney Imagineering, David Hoffman will join University of Central Florida’s Themed Experience graduate program as a full time instructor.

Panelists discussed how stories shape traditions, inspire communities, and even influence large-scale projects such as multi-billion-dollar theme parks.

In this podcast episode, Theron Skees talks with Peter Weishar about teaching the next generation of themed experience leaders how to create unforgettable worlds.

The UCF College of Arts and Humanities welcomes new faculty members joining our college in fall 2025!