Mike McNamara, a 1996 graduate of the University of Hartford’s College of Arts and Sciences, majored in Mass Communications with a minor in Sociology, two fields that would lay the foundation for a career built on connection, storytelling, and creating experiences people want to be part of.
During his time at UHart, Mike was deeply involved in Tau Epsilon Phi Fraternity, where he served as Social Chairman and later as Senior Member at Large on the Executive Board. He also worked as a lifeguard at the Sports Center. While he describes himself at the time as a “typical fraternity guy,” he now credits those experiences with shaping his professional path. Planning events, managing personalities, and building community became real-world training that would later define his career.
Mike chose to study within the College of Arts and Sciences because of its broad, people-centered approach to learning. His Mass Communications major gave him a strong foundation in how to connect, communicate, and build something that resonates, while his Sociology minor deepened his understanding of human behavior. Much of that experience was shaped by Professor Wick Griswold, whose engaging, experiential teaching style left a lasting impact. “He didn’t just teach sociology, he made you experience it,” Mike recalls.
Reflecting on his college experience, Mike appreciated UHart’s balance: large enough to offer opportunity, yet small enough to foster meaningful relationships and hands-on leadership. That environment, especially within the College of Arts and Sciences, encouraged him to explore, take initiative, and step confidently into leadership roles.
While still a student, Mike pursued internships that would shape his future, including roles with Patrick Media Productions (now ESPN2) and the William Scott Brewing Company (Rhino Chasers) in Huntington Beach, California. That early exposure to the beverage industry sparked what would become a lifelong career.
The College of Arts and Sciences taught me how to operate in the real world; communication, adaptability, and relationship-building. Those became the foundation of everything I’ve done.
After graduating, Mike went straight into the workforce, starting in sales and steadily building his career. Over time, he held senior leadership roles with major companies including E&J Gallo Winery, Diageo, Pernod Ricard USA, and Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. Along the way, he reconnected with fellow UHart alumni; full-circle moments that reinforced the value of his network.
His career took him across the country, including time living on the West Coast, where he gained valuable experience in fast-paced, brand-driven markets. Those years helped shape his understanding of relationships, hustle, and the importance of connecting with local communities.
Eventually, Mike leveraged that experience to build something of his own. He founded Hog Island Beer Company on Cape Cod, later expanding with The Triton Beverage Group and acquiring Cape Cod Beer and Mayflower Brewing Company. Today, he focuses on building strong brands and creating experiences that bring people together.
In addition to his work in the beverage industry, Mike co-founded The Outermost Music Festival with musician Garrett Dutton (G. Love). The festival has grown into one of the premier music events in the Northeast, drawing more than 30,000 attendees to Cape Cod and contributing significantly to the local economy.
Looking back, Mike credits his experience in the College of Arts and Sciences with teaching him more than academics. “It taught me how to operate in the real world; communication, adaptability, and relationship-building. Those became the foundation of everything I’ve done.”
Outside of class, Mike stayed active, working as a lifeguard, traveling to surf along the East and West Coasts and even internationally, and snowboarding across New England and beyond. Today, he lives on Cape Cod, where he enjoys time on the water with family and friends, continuing to draw inspiration from the lifestyle that fuels his brands.
From his time in the College of Arts and Sciences to a career defined by leadership and entrepreneurship, Mike McNamara’s journey is a testament to the power of community, connection, and making the most of every opportunity.