My Journey
I come from a long family tradition in restaurants, hotels, and travel. I began my career in the hospitality and tourism industry, working in, managing, and eventually opening businesses of my own. After years in the field, I transitioned into academia, earning an MBA and Ph.D. in Hospitality to help bridge the gap between industry practice and the classroom. My work now focuses on attending conferences, sharing research, and teaching students through a hands-on approach to hospitality. I believe that “hospitality is an experience that leads to a story.”
Experience in Action
Everything begins with an idea. Maybe it’s a business you’re ready to bring to life, a hobby you want to elevate, or a creative spark you’re excited to share. The way you tell your story is what brings that idea to life. That same belief is what drives my work, bridging the gap between industry experience and impactful student learning.
Entrepreneurship
I’ve spent more than 21 years in the hotel industry, beginning my career in 1994. Along the way, I’ve held roles from Front Office Manager to General Manager, gaining hands-on experience across every corner of hotel operations. Each position has shaped my understanding of what it takes to create exceptional experiences for guests and how hotels truly run.
Hotel Operation
I began teaching and sharing my knowledge in the field in 2014. I’m passionate about bringing learning to life in hospitality and tourism and helping students see how classroom lessons apply in real-world settings. I’m eager to share my expertise with students and would love to hear from anyone interested in taking one of my courses or with any questions they may have.
Teaching
I’ve had an extensive career in the food and restaurant industry, working in roles ranging from server to restaurant owner. Throughout my journey, my passion and early exposure to the industry have driven me to understand how a business operates and what it takes to make it succeed.
Education
My journey in hospitality and tourism began with a degree in ancient cultures and societies, which sparked my curiosity about people and their experiences. I later pursued an MBA specializing in hospitality, and went on to continue my studies at Texas A&M University, deepening my knowledge and preparing for a career that bridges industry and academia.
Publications
With years of industry experience, traveling to different countries, and seeing firsthand how hospitality operates around the world, I’m able to create a textbook designed to give students the real-world tools they need. I’m currently working on getting it published, offering a more engaging and hands-on approach that transforms how students learn in the classroom.