As part of the Future Leaders of Hospitality Program, each HCF student is paired with a member of the board for the duration of their college education. The program provides the students with personal advice, academic assistance and access to unique job and internship opportunities during monthly in-person meetings or video chats. The HCF board is comprised of more than 20 of the top food and beverage and hospitality executives in the city.
Students also receive mentorship and guidance from the HCF staff, which oversees the academic counseling, financial distribution, etiquette and interview training and overall functionality of the foundation.
Lazaro Cabrera, Travis Hackney, Vice President National Accounts - Gaming, SYSCO Corporate
Travis Hackney has been like the older brother I didn’t know I needed. He’s someone I can count on for honest advice, real support, and the kind of guidance that comes from experience. Having him in my corner has made a huge difference in my journey.
Melanie Alveno-Caro, Maggie Jackson, Vice President, Client Relationships, Freeman
I cannot wait to see what Maggie has to offer. I'm thrilled to spend this year with her and learn from one of the best!
Kyle Peng, Vildan Buric, Director of Beverage, Resorts World Las Vegas
I have always seen Vildan as a mentor ever since ive joined HCF, Helping me build costing sheets and even connecting me with the chefs at Stubborn Seed who eventually became my employment. He has always helped me out regardless and he really showed me the importance of being humble and truthful for those who ask for guidance.
Selene Losoya Tremillo, Ken Johnson, Executive Director of Food & Beverage, Four Queens Hotel & Casino, Binion's Gambling Hall
After meeting with my mentor, Ken I began to anticipate the many things I'll learn under his wing. The reason I say this is because whenever we meet it is during his work hours and I'll be side by side whenever he has to work on something. The second meeting we had together, he took me through multiple professional meetings allowing me to get a feel of what its like on the inside. One of the key points I learned from Ken so far was teamwork and communication and I can't wait to learn so much more!
Tahje Hutchinson, Bruce Belcher, Regional Vice President, Human Resources - West, Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits
Bruce is a diligent individual with years of experience and knowledge in his back pocket. I've spoken to Bruce many times in the past, and one thing he always made sure to instill in me is the importance of staying curious. By being curious, you always want to know the "why" behind many things, and that leads to asking the right questions. Your curiosity becomes your strength, and that strength turns into knowledge.
Christian Egbo-Cruz, Nick Trujillo, Director, Global Partnerships, Vegas Golden Knights
From the very start, Nick showed me what true mentorship looks like. He introduced me to invaluable opportunities and resources through the Hospitality Charitable Foundation that I didn’t even know existed. What I appreciate most is how he brings a sense of humor to every conversation, it’s like seeing a version of myself in him, bridging the past and the future. I’m incredibly thankful for Nick’s support, his mentorship has been a major influence on my growth, and it’s been an honor to learn from him. I can’t wait to learn more and keep growing with Nick’s guidance by my side.
Fanny Vega Barragan, Greg Van Stone, Vice President of Food & Beverage, Palms Casino Resort
Having Greg as a mentor has been an amazing experience. I have been able to learn many amazing things along the way. He has helped me discover new areas of the Hospitality industry. Greg is an inspirational mentor especially when it comes to balancing work life and family life. It has been an amazing journey with him as I am just starting. But I can't wait for what more there is more to bring!
Valentina Rivera-Aporta, Kaitlyn Molina, Regional Vice President of Talent Acquisition, Caesars Entertainment
Kaitlyn Molina has already been working so hard to ensure I have a bright future with HCF. She has discussed what leadership looks like and has helped me feel confident about my future. I am extremely grateful to be mentored by such an empowering woman who strives to help me reach my goals.
Anthony Rodriguez, Michael Kennedy, Director of Food Operations, South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa
Michael Kennedy brings an great depth of knowledge and wisdom to every conversation. He is widely respected and admired and not just for his expertise, but for the genuine care and authenticity he extends to everyone he meets. His presence leaves a lasting impression, and his guidance has been helped me develop into the leader I wish to be. Each interaction with Michael offers a new insight that I carry forward, both personally and professionally. He truly embodies the mission and values of the Hospitality Charitable Foundation, and I aspire to one day lead and mentor others with the same level of integrity and compassion. When I’m asked where my wisdom comes from, I point to Michael. It is an honor to be under his mentorship.
Sarah Ochoa-Diaz, Colleen Birch, Chairwoman of the Board, Hospitality Charitable Foundation
Before I was even paired with Colleen, I could already see her kindess shine in the way she interacted with others. I'm excited to share my last HCF mentor journey with her, as her leadership experience-- both in her career and within her community-- has fully prepared her to guide others. Colleen has already offered to support me in every area of my professional life and I'm eager to learn from a strong and inspiring woman business leader.
Shakty Hernandez, James McBride, Vice President Food & Beverage, Retail an Spa, MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, The Signature, New York New York Hotel & Casino, Excalibur Hotel & Casino, and Shadow Creek
James McBride has been a wonderful and helpful mentor. Seeing as I am his first mentee and he is my first mentor we have helped eachother out with this process and I know that in the future we will learn so much from eachother and the hospitality industry. James and I have discussed my goals for the future and he has provided me with the resources necessary to achieve them. I am so grateful to have him as my mentor, as well as HCF for helping me complete my dreams.
Gregory Haley, Jason Wade, Vice President of Sales, Wine & Spirits, BREAKTHRU Beverage Group
My mentorship with Jason has just begun, but after our first meeting — filled with shared passion and energy — I’m excited for the wealth of knowledge and growth ahead.
Michael Chavez, Megan Archambeault, Vice President of Sales, MGM Grand, The Signature at MGM Grand, New York-New York, and the Excalibur Hotel & Casino
I have been paired with Megan very recently and from what we have spoken about so far I think it is going to be an amazing year of growth, connection, and learning. Megan has so much knowledge about the operations side of the hotel industry and I am very excited to get to know her better and foster out relationship.
Quinn Oliver Loughton, Tom Gorball, Director of Food and Beverage, Sunset Station Hotel & Casino
Before ever getting to know him, I had repeatedly been told that Tom is an incredible mentor and I was lucky to have been paired with him as his mentee. Now, in the short time that I have been his mentee I can firmly verify all of this. Tom is an amazing guiding hand for me and has helped me to develop my goals and build a plan for the future. He is keen to offer help wherever he can and has proven himself to be a mentor committed to giving back and helping to inspire the Future Leaders of Hospitality.
Jerusalen Zeledon, Alyssa Mendes, Senior Vice President of Hospitality, Rio Las Vegas
Alyssa has been an amazing mentor and friend. She has provided many resources, as well as someone to talk to about whatever challenges I face. Being mentored by her has never felt intimidating or awkward because she shows genuine interest in me as a person and my goals in life. I am so grateful to HCF and Alyssa for providing a great support system. I can't wait to continue working with them.
Eliana Mendoza, Debbie Felker, President and Majority Owner, BUZZ LLC.
I shared with Debbie that this year is about career development and growing my network. Debbie expressed excitement to help me expand my contact list, and I can't wait to meet new people, but also learn from a powerful business woman!
Razelle Antipuesto, Robert Chiti, Director of Hotel & Guest Relations, Tao Group Las Vegas
In our meetings so far, he has helped me come clear up my future plans. While I have an end goal in mind, Robert has helped me narrow and focus more on what I need to focus on.
Isabelle Gates, Kevin Ball, Vice President Procurement, Fontainebleau Las Vegas
My mentorship with Kevin has just begun, and I cannot wait to see all that I will learn from him!
Dayana Flores Garcia, Amber Jung, Senior Executive of Business Development & Strategic Activations, Edison Interactive
Amber Jung, truly a person you can describe as a "shot of expresso." Which is perfect since I adore coffee. Although, my mentorship has just begun she has already shown me the beauty of this organization, and everything it has to offer. From our first conversation, I felt an immediate connection as we spoke about our personal life, hobbies, and some aspects of the future. I cannot wait for the rest of this year to learn more about the industry by her side.
Amaia Frank, Bryan Fyler, Vice President of Food & Beverage, The Venitian Resort Las Vegas
Having Bryan as my mentor has already been an amazing experience. For the short amount of time that I have known him, he has already taught and given me experiences I never would have had without the Hospitality Charitable Foundation. I am extremely grateful to learn from him for the rest of my time at UNLV.
Eliana Mendoza and Mom, Kaitlin Molina, Regional Vice President of Talent Acquisition, Caesars Entertainment
Kaitlin taught me so many things, but her organization and planning skills are like no other. She taught me that balance is possible with a busy work-life schedule, you just have to find a system that helps you stay organized. I remember her telling me one meeting about her love for planners. At the next meeting, she bought me a planner of my own. It starts July 2025, but I can already say that Kaitlin, and her love for planners, have left a lasting mark on me.
Camila Rodriguez-Pineda, Amber Jung, Senior Executive of Business Development & Strategic Activations, Edison Interactive
During my time with Amber, I was able to get out of my comfort zone multiple times by reaching out to different people in the industry and starting the conversation. She helped me become more of an extroverted person which is very needed in the hospitality industry. I gained different skills during our time together and she helped mold me into who I want to be in the future. She pushed me into trying different things and helped me make crucial decisions.
Tahje Hutchinson, Nick Trujillo, Director, Global Partnerships, Vegas Golden Knights
Nick has taught me the importance of being proactive and being a better leader to those around me. He expressed great interest in my growth and continues to fuel me every step of the way. Being a leader is about identifying the strength and weakneses of your team and placing them in positions to be successful in any and everything you do. I believe that Nick is a great example of that because he cares about those around him and bringing success to the table. He is a vital reason why I'm where I am today as I continue to progress and make the most of the opportunities that are coming my way.
Eliana Mendoza, Martha Morales, Vice President & General Manager, Valley Forge Casino Resort, Boyd Gaming
Martha taught me the value of reputation, and how it means everything in the Hospitality industry.
Alexia Genovese, Tom Gorball, Director of Food and Beverage, Sunset Station Hotel & Casino
During my time with Tom Gorball as my mentor, I learned so many priceless skills that I could have never learned anywhere else. He was always able to help me navigate professional, personal, and school challenges. He even helped me to complete a school project where I needed to come up with a menu for a cooking class. His experience in the F&B industry was always of great assistance during any challenge that I came to him with. His guidance and friendship has changed my perspective and my life.
Razelle Antipuesto, Maggie Jackson, Vice President, Client Relationships, Freeman
While our time was short, I learned a lot. Maggie really helped me expand my knowledge on all different areas of the industry. She was able to connect me with so many other people that shared their journey.
Kyle Peng, Ken Johnson, Executive Director of Food & Beverage, Four Queens Hotel & Casino, Binion's Gambling Hall
Ken Johnson is a inspirational and charismatic leader who showed me the importance of being humble and connecting with the people around you, when you build a strong connection as a leader with your peers then they become one of your most important assets.
Lazaro Cabrera, Robert Chiti, Director of Hotel & Guest Relations, TAO Group Las Vegas
Robert Chiti was my first mentor as a HCF student, and I couldn't have asked for a better one! He really taught and explained me the ropes of the hospitality industry and supported any and all ideas that I threw at him, while still giving his honest opinion and helping me with more than just school, but with life’s biggest obstacles!
Melanie Alveno-Caro, Sherri Pucci Sosa, Senior Vice President of HR, MGM Resorts International
Sherri has taught me to always balance yourself. Only take as much as you are able to handle. Life is full of ups and downs.
Sarah Ochoa-Diaz, Bruce Belcher, Regional Vice President, Human Resources - West, Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits
Bruce's mentorship was all about learning from our mistakes and gaining the tools to find solutions and connections in the workplace. Bruce was able to guide my career path in human resources with his own insight, encouraging me to take mutiple perspectives and approach problem solving with versatility. Thanks to the honest conversations we shared, I now know I'll always have someone to call for support.
Anthony Rodriguez, Jason Charboneau, Senior Vice President, Beer & NA, Southern Glazers Wine, Spirits and Beer
Jason Charboneau played a pivotal role in introducing me to the world of wines, beer, and spirits. His deep industry knowledge and thoughtful mentorship helped me understand the fundemantals of the beverage sector of hospitality. During our time together, Jason generously shared his expertise through one-on-one meetings, a behind-the-scenes tour of Southern Glazer’s warehouse, and by gifting me insightful books to deepen my understanding. His mentorship not only broadened my perspective but also sparked a greater interest in the beverage side of hospitality. I’m incredibly grateful for Jason’s support and the meaningful experiences he provided throughout our mentorship.
Fatima Garcia Avelar, Kevin Ball, Vice President Procurement, Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Kevin has taught me that emotional maturity is what powers you on. Having him as my mentor as I begun college was amaxing because I had obstecles that professionally and mentally I wasn't aware of. Skills are great to have, but you can't fully use your academic/work skills if you don't use your emotional skills first. He was wonderful and taught me a lot about life and growing as a person..
Michael Chavez, Michael Kennedy, Director of Food Operations at South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa
Michael was my first mentor in HCF and he was able to show me so much of what the food and beverage industry has to offer. He has been able to introduce me to so many people within the hospitality industry to build my network and relationships with others. He was able to change my future goal from owning my own restaurant to wanting to be in a position like him. My love for the industry was cultivated and has grown through his mentorship and I hope our relationship will continue to grow as well. One of the biggest takeaways from experiencing his mentorship was being timely and to not make excuses, I feel that this has made me into someone who is able to create a schedule and stick to it and to always look at the bigger picture. My mentorship with Michael has been amazing and I am looking forward to the future of what the relationship I've made with him will be.
Gregory Haley, Greg Van Stone, Vice President of Food and Beverage, Palms Casino Resort
During my time with mentor Greg Van Stone, I gained clarity, confidence, and direction within the hospitality industry. Greg introduced me to the restaurant side of the business, helping me discover where I truly want to be. Through his guidance, I became more confident in my abilities and the path I’m choosing to pursue. Every step I take now feels intentional and aligned with my goals. I’m deeply grateful for the time, support, and dedication Greg invested in me — his mentorship made a lasting impact.
Isabelle Gates, Megan Archambeault, Vice President of Sales, MGM Grand, The Signature at MGM Grand, New York-New York, and the Excalibur Hotel & Casino
As my first mentor in HCF, Megan showed me what being a mentor is all about. Despite her busy schedule, she always made time for me, and when I needed her help, she was always there. Through her guidance, I understand what mentorship truly means. One day, I would love to be a mentor like her and open doors for students that they did not know existed. I could not be more grateful for all that I learned from Megan!
Camila Rodriguez-Pineda, Tom Gorball, Director of Food & Beverage, Sunset Station Hotel & Casino
Tom was my first mentor with HCF, and from the beginning I could tell that he is an amazing, genuine, and caring person. He supported me throughout my first year at UNLV and made sure that I was doing well in all aspects of life. Tom also helped me find a balance between school, work and my personal life, which was a big challenge during that year. He helped connect me with different people in the hospitality industry for their advice and towards the end of our mentorship I felt much better on how much time I was spending on each category. He helped me find a balance and supported me throughout the whole time and continues to do so.
Anthony Rodriguez, Nick Trujillo, Director, Global Partnerships, Vegas Golden Knights
Nick Trujillo brings both passion and energy to his role as a mentor, along with a deep enthusiasm for the entertainment and sports. I already had a strong impression of his professionalism and enthusiasm, and that excitement only grew as we began working together. As his first mentee, I had the unique opportunity to learn from Nick while also sharing insights of my own. He helped broaden my understanding of hospitality beyond Food & Beverage, introducing me to the dynamic world of entertainment partnerships and operations. His mentorship challenged me to think more broadly about my career path and helped me become a more well-rounded individual. I’m incredibly grateful for the time, support, and perspective Nick has shared with me throughout this journey.
Razelle Antipuesto, Vildan Buric, Director of Beverage, Resorts World Las Vegas
Vildan taught me a lot about being a humble and compasiante person while not deminishing your accomplishments. He always made sure to check in on my progress while not making me feel like i'm behind or like I need to be doing more.
Sarah Ochoa-Diaz, Michael Kennedy, Director of Food Operations, South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa
Starting off my HCF career with Michael as my first mentor allowed me to really expand my network and allow a chance for new learning experiences. He generously shared his knowledge on the food & beverage industry as well as the challenges that come with being a leader. His mentorship has inspired me to always persue a better version of myself and to face new challenges with confidence.
Kyle Peng, Alyssa Mendes, Senior Vice President of Hospitality, Rio Las Vegas
Alyssa Mendes is a energetic and passionate mentor, she supported me in giving me words of encouragement as I push to complete my application to study abroad in Japan and it became one of the best experiences in my life. She connected me with chefs at Ceasers Palace at Nobu and Guy Savoy who played a pivotal role in my career and looking at the culinary world in a different perspective.
Tahje Hutchinson, Robert Chiti, Director of Hotel & Guest Relations, TAO Group Las Vegas
Robert as my first mentor was one of a kind. He is a hardworking and sophiscated leader who loves his job to the core and treats his client with the upmost courtesy and respect. He taught me the importance of networking and upholding relationships with everyone I meet. He also enlightened me to keep a spreadsheet of those I come into contact with their contact information. He made sure I understand the fundamentals of establishing relationships in the hospitality world and making a unique connection with each individual so that they would have no choice but to like me.
Melanie Alveno-Caro, Bruce Belcher, Regional Vice President, Human Resources - West, Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits
Bruce has taught me to take every opportunity that is available because you never know what will come from it.
Anthony Rodriguez, Vildan Buric, Director of Beverage, Resorts World Las Vegas
From the beginning, Vildan exemplified what it means to be a mentor. He introduced me to the value of mentorship and the many resources available through HCF. With the support of Vildan and his incredible team, I refined a recipe that went on to earn me a scholarship that would fund my study abroad experience in Japan. That opportunity not only demonstrated the power of networking and mentoship but it also amplified the experience of my academic journey. Throughout our mentorship, Vildan consistently encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone. He inspired me to take on leadership roles during my first year, helping me grow in confidence and capability. I’m deeply grateful for Vildan’s mentorship. His guidance played a key role in shaping the person I’ve become today, and it was truly an honor to be his first mentee.
Razelle Antipuesto, Amber Jung, Senior Executive of Business Development & Strategic Activations, Edison Interactive
As a quiet freshman, it was very hard to socialize and learn how to network. Throughout my time with Amber I learned so much about being social and how to build a connection with someone in a short amount of time. During events you have a very limited time with people and it is important to learn how to make a lasting impression.
Kyle Peng, Kelly Jones, Founding partner of Trust3 Hospitality and Kelley Jones Hospitality
Kelly Jones has taught me the importance of learning the buisness of the restaurant world and cooking was the easy part, but buisness was the most crucial part of owning a restaurant. He is a influential leader that continues to support families in need with the organization he founded called Hope for the City.
Sol Pacheco, Michael Kennedy, Director of Food Operations at South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa
"I'm very fortunate to have Michael Kennedy as my first mentor, I can't thank him enough for the countless advice and opportunities he has given me. I truly appreciate all that he has done for me, teaching me a new valuable lesson with each meeting we have. Michael has not only been a great mentor but a friend and a blessing to both me and my family. I will always revere Michael for his hard work and personality."
Giovanni Saucedo, Luiz Oliveira, Owner of Sambalatte Torrefazione
"My mentor has shown me a different aspect of hospitality leadership. I have learned of his origins and his evolution to his current position as a business owner, and appreciate the background aspect when recognizing his growth. I appreciate the conversations and advice my mentor had presented to me as I merge myself into the industry."
Ashley Kozell, Christopher Bond, Vice President of Hotel Sales and Catering, The Mirage Hotel and Casino
"I feel so honored to have had Chris Bond as my first ever mentor. His exceptional guidance throughout my academics and future career has been extremely helpful. I am thankful for this opportunity to learn from him and his experience throughout the Hospitality Industry. Chris Bond is very passionate in his career and it only inspires me more looking forward in the future. I will always continue to learn and take advice that he gives. It is nice to have a mentor like Chris Bond, someone in the industry that I look up to."
Brkiti Brhan, Ken Johnson, Executive Director of Food & Beverage for Four Queens / Binion's
"There aren't enough words to explain my gratitude for this mentorship program and to Ken, my first mentor. Ken is one of the kindest people I have ever come across, he shows that having a passion and being a hard worker can lead anyone to their dream. My first semester in college wouldn't be the same without Ken's guidance and useful advice. I knew I could always count on Ken to give me words of encouragement when I was struggling in a class and in need of overcoming every obstacle, I came across both in my academical and personal life. Ken has become my role model and I am truly blessed for the opportunity to be his mentee."
Cameron Keenan, Robert Chiti, Director of Hotel & Guest Relations for TAO Group Las Vegas
"Robert has been an amazing mentor for me this year. He gave me insight and knowledge on all aspects of this industry. I can always count on him for guidance, advice, and inspiration. He has taught me how to push myself and step out of my comfort zone. I am forever grateful for all I have learned, and I look forward for what's to come!"
Jasmine Ramos, Karla Perez-Larragoite, Vice President National Accounts-Gaming, Sysco Coporation
"Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn." -Benjamin Franklin. This quote perfectly describes Karla Perez. Her involvement within HCF is incredible. I truly look up to her personally and professionally."
Kennedy Villegas, Craig Gilbert, Managing Partner of Drive This! Entertainment
"My mentorship with Craig has taught me to value myself and balance my lifestyle with school and work. Craig is a very knowledgeable and caring leader, anyone would be lucky to be paired with him."
Maria Miranda, Kelley Jones, Founding partner of Trust3 Hospitality and Kelley Jones Hospitality
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Mia Salomon, Martha Morales, General Manager, Nobu Hotel, Las Vegas
"Martha is the definition of mentorship. She is beyond a leader; she is a friend and a guardian. Everything I have learned and practiced to hone my skills as a leader, has come from Martha. She is genuinely concerned about my academic, professional, and personal endeavors, too. Her figure as a role model is what I aspire to become as I advance forward in life. I am unable to express my gratitude toward her sometimes, because she constantly has something to provide to the table for everyone in her heart."
Monica Corral, Marisa Martino, Managing Partner, ATM Hospitality
"Whether she is on the east coast helping a restaurant create their concept or in town working non-stop to plan events for the company she works for, Marisa always keeps me as one of her priorities. I admire Marisa for many things: her kindness, her passion for the hospitality industry, and her vibrant personality, but what I wish to emulate the most one day is the way Marisa manages time. Marisa's time management skills are incredible! Because she know's what is most important to her and what items on her agenda have to be completed before others. Marisa is able to make time for the things she needs to do and for the things she wants to do, like cooking with her family. I see Marisa as an amazing role model, not just for myself, but for anyone that dreams of starting their own business, making long-lasting relationships, and viewing their job as not something they have to do, but something they love to do."
Noe Martinez Alvares, David Suppe, Executive Chef of The Juice Standard
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Rocio Vasquez, Eric Brady, Chief Strategy Officer of Purestar Group
"Aside of having a professional viewpoint on things, Eric emphasizes the importance of personal happiness. When having complex ideas, he knows how to simplify those concerns to have a more clear path one should go in. He never fails to strive for bigger aspirations and help one achieve their goals."
Nachely Martinez, Luiz Oliveira, Owner of Sambalatte Torrefazione
"Luiz is a wonderful mentor and friend. I know that I can always reach out to him if I have any questions or just need someone to talk to. He is a very smart man and someone whom I truly admire and respect."
Vildan Buric, Michael Kennedy, Director of Food Operations at South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa
"My mentor has truly become a great friend. He is always there to help academically and professionally, and provides invaluable advice and expertise."
Karen Nava, Ana Marie Mormando, General Manager of the Mansion at MGM Grand
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Mia Salomon, Craig Gilbert, Managing Partner of Drive This! Entertainment
"Craig is always there for me whenever I need him. Not only does he give me amazing professional advice, but personal life advice as well. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to be mentored by someone with such a wide variety of experience in the industry."
Anna Tymoshevska, Christopher Bond, Vice President of Hotel Sales and Catering, The Mirage Hotel & Casino
"I am very fortunate to have Chris as my mentor. He is a role model, a great mentor, and a friend who is always there for me and supports me in the academic and career aspects of my life. It is a privilege to be able to learn from such an experienced professional that has taken the career path that I am just starting."
Benjamin Sison, Michael Kennedy, Director of Food Operations at South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa
"Thank you for the countless advice you have given me throughout my time in college, thank you for the opportunities you have created for me to grow, and thank you for being an outstanding mentor and friend to me consistently. I would not be where I am today without your help and guidance, and I am extremely thankful for that."
Geovanni Saucedo, Craig Gilbert, Managing Partner of Drive This! Entertainment
"Craig has been an amazing mentor for my second year as a college student. His advice isn't solely restricted in my academics, but in my future career as a industry professional and in my personal life. I appreciate his guidance and concern over my growth as a young hospitality leader."
Jasmine Ramos, Kelley Jones, Founding partner of Trust3 Hospitality and Kelley Jones Hospitality
"As Winston Churchill said, "We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give." My mentor, Kelley Jones is the perfect example of this quote. He has done nothing but push me in the right direction and give great advice. Kelley has treated me like family right from the start and I appreciate his generosity more than he'll ever know."
Maria Miranda, Tim Bowen, Vice President of Food & Beverage at Bally's, Paris and Planet Hollywood
"Time has vast experience and knowledge of the hospitality industry, specifically food and beverage, giving me the opportunity to learn a lot under his guidance. He has provided me with opportunities to learn hands on, as well as observe him perform as a professional in his work environment. Tim is dedicated to aiding me with my career development and making sure I am on the right track. I am more than fortunate to have Time Bowen as my mentor, he is one of the most caring people I know, and I always look forward to having our mentor meetings!"
Ashley Hassler, David Suppe, Executive Chef of The Juice Standard
"I am so grateful for my mentor. He has truly made a large impact in my life, and has helped me through so much personally and even professionally. He is more than a mentor to me; he is a close friend for life. I am thankful for the time he has given to mentor me, give me advice, and help me out. Not many people would do that. I know the mentorship with him will eventually come to an end, but our bond will last stronger. I look forward to the future of our friendship, even after HCF."
Kennedy Villegas, Martha Morales, General Manager, Nobu Hotel, Las Vegas
"Any student would be lucky to have a mentor like Martha Morales. She has been the biggest supporter of my academic and career endeavors during my first year of university. Her guidance has allowed me to grow more knowledgeable about the industry of Hospitality, and the experiences we shared has given me the opportunity to realize my true potential in becoming a professional in the field. I am grateful for Martha and everything she has done. When I am a leader, I wish to pass on this mentorship bond with future students of Hospitality and HCF."
Brandon Scarberry, Robert Chiti, Director of Hotel & Guest Relations for TAO Group, Las Vegas
"Robert has been an amazing mentor for me this year. He gave my insight and knowledge on all aspects of this industry. I can always count on him for guidance, advice, and inspiration. He has taught me how to push myself and step out of my comfort zone. I am forever grateful for all I have learned, and I look forward for what's to come!"
Noe Martinez, Michael Kennedy, Director of Food Operations at South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa
"The relationship I have with my mentor is the first of its kind that I have experienced. It's a hand of guidance along with real world examples. It's helping better myself to become closer to my goals. It's a relationship that empowers me in various ways. This relationship, simply put, is incredible."
Monica Coral, Ken Johnson, Executive Director of Food & Beverage for Four Queens / Binion's
"I am extremely grateful to have Ken as my first mentor. Ken has provided me with so much more than an educational experience of the food and beverage industry, he has taught me what it takes to be an executive in any industry. As one of the most caring people I know, Ken is someone who I can trust with providing me with professional advice, not just because I am his mentee, but because he genuinely wants to see me succeed. No matter how busy Ken may be, he does everything with an optimistic point of view while always staying true to himself, which are only a few astounding characteristics that I wish to see in myself when I work in the hospitality industry."
Rocio Vasquez, Kevin Ball, Corporate Vice President of Purchasing and Strategic Sourcing for Golden Entertainment, Inc
"It is an honor to have Kevin as my mentor. He never fails to make me feel special and no matter how busy he is, he always makes sure that I am doing well personally and academically. It is always a joyous moment whenever we get together."
