Thank You to Our Sponsors!

Greetings from Dr. Dan Remar: 2024 Senior Capstone Instructor

"Thank you for attending our 3rd Annual UGA Georgia Hospitality and Tourism Summit. This year's event is produced by our 2024 Senior Capstone Hospitality and Food Industry Management students. Our class has been working on this event the entire semester where this day has been the focal point of our experiential learning program of our major. From the start of the day to the closing reception, our students are responsible for your experience today. Thank you for your participation in their learning process. Most importantly, thank you to our graduating seniors for your commitment to this event and the professional development of all of our conference attendees."

Meet Our Student Moderators

Abigail Glass is a senior at UGA who is studying Hospitality and Food Industry Management and minoring in Spanish. She has loved the culinary industry her whole life, and has worked in various positions in different restaurants over the past 7 years. She is extremely passionate about connecting people to cultures, cultures to cultures, and people to people through a culinary standpoint. Currently she is working part time at a local restaurant as well as pursuing her own food and travel blog to share her love of connecting food and culture. After graduation, she would like to attend culinary school to pursue a career in the restaurant industry. Her ultimate goal is to open her own restaurant that is reflective of her Cuban background.

Abigail Glass

I am a fourth year graduating senior majoring in Hospitality and Food Industry management, with a minor in Business and a certificate in Entrepreneurship. Originally from Milton, GA, I have always had an interest in the hospitality industry. I am most interested in hotel and event management. After graduation, I will be moving to Atlanta to begin the Marriott Voyager Program at the Westin Peachtree Plaza.

Isabella Losurdo

Being born in Savannah, GA, I've been surrounded by tourism and hospitality for most of my life. Joining the HFIM program at UGA opened up opportunities for me to gain even more experiences and connections within the industry. I worked at an expeditor at the 2022 Masters Tournament, worked in Food and Beverage at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa, and intern at The Classic Center here in Athens. Recently, I was accepted into the Marriott Voyage program at The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa, which I will be starting in June.

Morgan Schmidt

My name is Madison Wagner and I am a fourth-year student with a major in Hospitality and Food Industry Management and minor in General Business. My area of interest is in Food and Beverage Operations and Event Management. I have experience at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, Sea Island Resort, and the Sea Pines Resort. I am still actively looking for employment opportunities after graduation in May.

Madison Wagner

Meet Our Speakers

Dr. Ashley Barfield is the Director of Marketing Research for the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), where she previously served as the Director of Tourism Research for nearly five years. At GDEcD, she leads a team who uses public and proprietary datasets, analytics, surveys, studies, and more to optimize the Department’s work and to monitor the pulse of multiple industries in the state of Georgia. Ashley holds four degrees (two bachelor’s, one master’s, and one Ph.D.) from the University of Georgia’s College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences and Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication. At the Summit,

Dr. Barfield will share a “state of state” update on Georgia’s tourism industry: where we stood in 2022, what we know about 2023 (so far), and the forecast for 2024 (and beyond).

Dr. Ashley Barfield

Amanda Dyson-Thornton serves as Executive Director of the Georgia Association of Convention and Visitors Bureaus (GACVB), the unified voice, education, and leadership development resource for our state's destination marketing organizations. Dyson’s hospitality career began at Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau where she held several roles during her time there, including Domestic Tourism Manager, Marketing Manager, National Sales Manager and mostly recently Director of Membership, Corporate Events and Visitor Services.

A native of Atlanta, Dyson received her BFA in Theatre Management from Valdosta State University and has her Travel Marketing Professional (TMP) designation from the Southeast Tourism Society. Dyson lives in Atlanta with her husband, Craig and her two children Adam and Lily.

Amanda Dyson-Thornton

President of Origin Development Group, Ms. Fernandez has been both a multi-unit franchisee and investor, serving as a strategic growth partner for brands such as Chicken Salad Chick. Lauren previously served as the General Counsel for FOCUS Brands where she was instrumental in the rapid growth of the licensing and franchise programs. Lauren holds an undergraduate degree from Stetson University, as well as a Juris Doctorate and MBA from Emory University. A Florida native, she has called Atlanta home for almost two decades.

Lauren Fernandez

Lauren Fernandez is the CEO and Founder of Full Course, a restaurant development and investment firm which incubates and accelerates emerging fast casual restaurant brands. Full Course guides restaurant owners through a process of optimization, strategic growth planning and development, and supports investment for rapid expansion. Learn more at FullCourse.com. Ms. Fernandez also leads The Fernandez Company, a consulting firm working with government, investors and companies providing expert guidance in franchise programs, licensing opportunities and developing consumer product lines. She is a trusted brand consultant and legal advisor in the restaurant and hospitality industry, from start-ups to multinational companies. As the co-founder and

brainchild, the fan-favorite Peach Prosciutto Pie, earned him a lifetime spot on the U.S. Pizza team, and he competes annually at the World Pizza Championships in Italy. French has been recognized on Forbes.com as an “entrepreneur you should know” and regularly contributes insights on leadership and innovation. When he’s not in the test kitchen, French enjoys spending time with wife Natalie, daughters Anna and Scarlett and their dogs.

Drew French

Drew French is the Founder and President of the fast casual pizza pioneer, Your Pie. While honeymooning on the Italian island of Ischia, French was inspired to bring the authentic, brick-oven taste of Italian pizza to the United States. With a passion for gourmet food and a business degree from the University of Georgia, French opened the first Your Pie location in Athens, Ga., in 2008. The brand has since grown to more than 70 locations across the U.S. and French continues to infuse creativity, inspiration and innovation through his leadership. French’s culinary

Ranjan Goswami

Ranjan Goswami (he/him/his) is Senior Vice President – Customer Experience Design where he leads Delta’s customer insights and product strategy efforts. Ranjan guides near and long-term opportunities to drive customer preference for the airline. In his role, he ensures Delta’s delivery of a consistent and continuously improving industry-leading customer experience.Ranjan was instrumental in developing and executing Delta’s industry-leading commitment to bringing fast, free Wi-Fi to its entire global fleet. Moreover, he led the development and rollout of Delta Sync as part of the onboard Wi-Fi experience, which is delivering onboard digital experience benefits to SkyMiles members.

Nate Hybl

After retiring from the NFL, Nate began studying fast casual brands and experimenting in the kitchen with fresh, healthy ingredients – ones he had been intimidated by most of his life. Ultimately, he fell in love with flavors from around the world. Nine years in the making, Nate has successfully opened 12 gusto! metro Atlanta locations. The brand challenges guests to refresh their expectations of fast-casual dining by not sacrificing taste, nutrition or manners for speed. gusto! invests in its employees to become leaders and these fully trained, qualified and engaged team members create healthy, happy workplaces that have led to a significantly lower employee turnover rate than the industry average. This intentional culture to become the most empowering restaurant employer, along with a growth 

mindset, has earned Nate numerous awards and recognitions, including the Atlanta Business Chronicle naming him as one of the most admired CEOs in 2023.

Human Resources. Central to her leadership philosophy is the promotion of women in leadership roles. She firmly believes in creating pathways for women to excel and thrive within the organization. 

Iris Jackson

As a proud graduate of the University of Georgia's Terry College of Business with a major in Accounting, she embarked on a journey that has seen her wear multiple hats in her career. Beginning in Public Accounting Firms in Atlanta and Nashville, she eventually found her true calling in recruiting. For the past 24 years, she dedicated herself to Waffle House, currently serving as the Recruiting Director, VP. In her role, she leads the charge in management recruiting for 55 restaurants in the Metro Atlanta Market, overseeing sourcing, hiring, and nurturing the professional growth of their management team. Her position serves as a direct bridge between Operations Management and 

franchisee of The Wendy’s Company, Thomas has demonstrated exceptional leadership and business acumen, driving growth and success within the restaurant industry.

Tom Johnson

Thomas C. Johnson is a distinguished business leader and community advocate with a strong foundation in finance and entrepreneurship. A graduate of Hampden-Sydney College, class of 1989, Thomas began his professional journey as a Management Trainee and Mortgage Banker at Wachovia Bank, where he honed his skills in banking and financial services from 1989 to 1994.In 1994, Thomas embarked on his entrepreneurial path by founding Associated Restaurant Ventures, Inc. and Genesis Restaurant Group, LLC., where he serves as Founder, President, CEO, and managing member. As a

Marcus Johnson

 
Marcus Johnson is the Manager of Early Career and Diversity Recruiting at IHG Hotels and Resorts. An Alum of Texas Southern University, he is passionate about people and making sure that he supports the equitable outcomes in minorities in the corporate workspace and a proud advocate for HBCUs and Early Career Talent in the workplace. As a resident of the West End in Atlanta, GA he is committed to giving back to his community through his work at IHG. In his current role he focuses on bringing diverse talent 

into the world of Hospitality through jobs in Technology, Marketing, Finance, and other areas. He also holds a MBA from American University in DC.

was tasked with creating processes and guest experiences at new properties and teaching new employees the Gold Standards and culture of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. Following his graduation from The University of Georgia, Jon pursued his MBA in International Business from The University of North Florida.

Jon McGavin

Jon McGavin has 30 years of experience with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. Currently the Area General Manager at Grande Lakes overseeing both The Ritz-Carlton Orlando and JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes. Jon is responsible for managing the operations for the 500- acre resort including their championship Golf Course and newly constructed Ritz Carlton Residences. Prior to this appointment, in 2007, Mr. McGavin set two records upon his appointment as General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead: he is the first graduate of the University of Georgia to be named General Manager of the state’s iconic luxury hotel, and at 39, the youngest to earn the role. As a corporate trainer he

Chantra Reidenbaugh

 
Chantra Reidenbaugh is an alumna of the University of Georgia majoring in Management Information Systems. Chantra has a background in technology consulting and auditing as she commenced her career at a big 4 accounting firm, later transitioning to excel in the Financial Services and Insurance sectors, showcasing strong skills in problem-solving and client service. With a diverse professional journey, she now integrates her tech expertise with her love for travel at IHG. A devoted single mother of three daughters, she actively advocates for Autism awareness and mental health while also rescuing animals in need. Fondly known as 'the farm', her suburban home is cherished by her and her daughters. During her leisure time, she

cherishes family moments, explores new destinations, and engages in home renovation projects.

roles as VP of Operations Performance and Strategy, Natasha served as the Chief of Staff for the Americas CEO, where she played a vital role in driving many of our Covid relief efforts and leading strategic owner support initiatives to help drive recovery. Natasha began her career with IHG in 2014 as a manager on the Americas Strategy team and has worked in a variety of corporate and brand strategy roles and spent several years working out of the London office. She started her career working at Siemens AG in several roles within the corporate finance organization. Outside of work, Natasha enjoys spending time with her husband, Cole, her 4-year old daughter, Riley, and 2-year old son Aiden. An avid traveler, she loves to explore the world and is always seeking out the best coffee spots in new places. As a proud UGA graduate, she loves cheering on her alma mater.

Natasha Scott

Natasha Scott is the Vice President of Operations Performance and Strategy in the Americas for IHG Hotels & Resorts. Natasha is responsible for executing estate-wide strategic initiatives to drive revenue and long-term growth, while supporting our owners and hotel support teams with rolling out critical hotel programs. Natasha’s team is at the forefront in designing and building out deeper Operational capabilities, including a more data-driven approach that will leverage insights and reporting to drive hotel performance. Her team leverages technology tools and solutions to lead process improvements, identify and evaluate cross-functional initiatives that could roll out to hotels. She is responsible for continue to strengthen our owner relations and works closely with the IHG Owners Association. Prior to her current

He serves on the Advisory Panel for Snapper/Grouper Species for the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council. He has worked with the South Atlantic Fishermen's Association to improve the sustainability and health of the South Atlantic, the availability of local fish, and the financial future and heritage of the fishing industry. Deeply devoted to community service, Snyder serves on the Board of Directors for the Chamber of Commerce, Coastal Symphony of Georgia, The Boys and Girls Club of Southeast Georgia, and Hospice of the Golden Isles. Snyder is a founding board member of the St. Simons Food & Spirits Festival, benefiting Hospice of the Golden Isles. He also serves on the Culinary Board for the College of Coastal Georgia.

Dave Snyder

Dave Snyder owns and operates Halyards Catering, Hook & Knife Charters, and Halyards Restaurant Group, comprised of Tramici, Halyards Restaurant, and La Plancha. His restaurants perennially ranked the island and region's most popular, Halyards and Tramici were named 2014 Businesses of the Year by the Brunswick and Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce. In 2014, Dave was selected to serve on the Board of Directors for the Georgia Restaurant Association. Snyder offers monthly cooking classes where he is able to draw on his relationships with local fishermen and farmers; he demonstrates to eager guests that the best ingredients make a tremendous difference in food quality, the sustainability of the environment, and the financial strength of the local economy.

Jim Sprouse

Jim Sprouse, a 38-year association management professional has led the Georgia Hotel & Lodging Association as Executive Director since 2005. GHLA serves as the voice of Georgia’s lodging industry and has garnered tremendous respect for its work representing one of Georgia’s most dynamic industries. Jim and his team stand ready to serve as your resource for hotel and lodging issues.

spent nearly ten years with Ernst & Young in Chicago as the Central Region Practice Director for E&Y's Hospitality Services Group. Scott started his professional career with HVS International, a lodging advisory and valuation firm. Scott is very active both in the local community and the hospitality industry.

Scott Steilen

Scott Steilen is President and CEO of Sea Island Company, a Forbes Five-Star destination resort and private club on the Georgia coast. In his role as President and CEO, Scott Steilen oversees all the company's operations, which include destination resort lodging, management of the resort's golf, spa, and recreational facilities, vacation rental management, real estate development and brokerage, private club membership, and a property services business. Steilen joined Sea Island in 2011 after spending ten years as a Principal of Warnick + Company, a strategic advisory firm to hospitality industry clients worldwide, and co-founder of its Chicago office. He advised his clients in the areas of hospitality operations, process improvement, asset management, corporate and investment strategy, market and economic analysis, litigation support, and capital markets activities. Prior to Warnick + Company, he

David was the State Tourism Director for Michigan, and oversaw the award-winning Pure Michigan campaign, as well as the Vice president of Marketing for the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau in Pennsylvania. David is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Michigan State University and a former professor at Temple and Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA.

David West

David West is the executive director of destination marketing for Herschend Family Entertainment (HFE). HFE is the largest family-owned themed attractions company in the U.S. David is a team member of the senior marketing leadership for their amusement park – Dollywood in Tenn., Wild Adventures in GA, Kentucky Kingdom in Louisville, and Silver Dollar City in Branson MO; Hotels & Resorts with two at Dollywood and Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain Ga; Aquariums in Vancouver Canada, Cincinnati, and Philadelphia; Pink Jeep Adventure Tours in Sedona and Grand Canyon AZ, Las Vegas, Branson MO, and Smoky Mountains TN. Previously,

collaborative relationships with influential hospitality executives spanning various disciplines of the industry, including operations, ownership, lending and finance. Currently, Greg serves as the principal and founder of NorthPointe Hospitality Management, a venture initiated over 13 years ago. In this capacity, he orchestrates all facets of hotel operations and development investment, from guiding debt financing and equity sourcing to overseeing daily operational performance. 

Greg Winey

With over four decades immersed in the hospitality industry, Greg's unwavering commitment to excellence traces back to his humble beginnings as a bellman in 1979. Throughout his extensive career, Greg has progressively held diverse roles within hotels, reaching the pinnacle of operational leadership as Vice President of operations for the nation's third largest privately held management company in the nation. For approximately seven years, he was responsible for a workforce exceeding 5,000 employees, as he effectively managed 135 hotels across 17 states for a publicly traded REIT, gaining national recognition for product quality and service. Greg has forged

Thank You To Our Silent Auction Donors!

5 & 10 Restaurant
Author Loran Smith
Broomsedge Rod & Gun
Engelheim Vineyards
Freedom Boat Club Lake Oconee
Laughing Tansy
Prescription Travel
The Athens Classic Center
UGA Hospitality and Food Industry Management

Explore the HFIM Silent Auction Items

~4 Tickets to Pro Hockey; The Classic Center
 ~4 Tickets to Ice Skating; The Classic Center
 ~4 Tickets to UGA Hockey; The Classic Center
 ~Broomsedge Rod & Gun Hunting Lodge Package; 1-Night Stay and 2 Person Hunt
 ~Athens Dinner & Show; $100 gift card to 5&10, and 2 Classic Center Show Tickets
~Freedom Boat Club Lake Oconee Voucher; 3-Hour Boat Ride
~Georgia Bulldog Wind Spinner and Accessories
~Georgia Wood Art and 1 Signed Copy Whaddya got, Loran?
~National Champ Football Signed by Coach Smart
~Prescription Travel; Travel Advisor Certificate
~Spa Basket, Bottle of Wine, and Handmade Jewelry
 ~Georgia Tailgate Cooler, Cuervo Blue Agave Gold Tequila, Mix, and
1 Signed Copy Whaddya got, Loran?
~Taste of the Town
~UGarden Tea Bundle