PSB Student–Faculty Research Paper on Tipping Fairness Receives Best Paper Award at International Academic Conference
A student–faculty research team from the Paseka School of Business was honored with the Best Conference Paper Award (Undergraduate Research) at the 2026 Korea-America Hospitality & Tourism Educators Association (KAHTEA) Conference, held in Los Angeles, CA, on April 16–18.
The study was developed through a collaborative effort among Maddie Moen (Marketing student), Ralf Mehnert-Meland, J.D. (Business Law faculty), and Dr. Wooyang Kim (Marketing faculty). Titled “A Preliminary Study of Tipping Controversy, Transparency, and Fairness: An Integrated Perspective from Paradox and Sensemaking Theories,” this research explores a timely and complex question: who should hold primary accountability for ensuring wage fairness and a livable income for minimum-wage workers, particularly those in tip-affected positions. As an ongoing project, a multilevel mixed-method approach is used to examine this societal issue through the lenses of institutional paradox, stakeholder sensemaking, and individual perceptions of fairness, particularly in the context of dual citizenship between tipped employees and customers.
This recognition is especially meaningful, as the award was received in competition with leading R1 universities. This research project also benefited from the continued support of Dr. Peter Sherman, Dean of CBAC. His encouragement has been instrumental in these outcomes and continues to play an important role in advancing future student–faculty research efforts, including awards over the past three consecutive years (2024: Annisa Wilke and Nora Simondet with Hyung Sang An and Wooyang Kim; 2025: Nora Simondet with Wooyang Kim).
This achievement reflects the value of student–faculty collaboration in addressing real-world societal challenges. In alignment with MSUM’s strategic direction, this recognition also contributes to enhancing the visibility and strengthening the academic reputation of both MSUM and PSB.