My Path in Hospitality and Why Service Still Guides My Leadership
Summary:
Grew up around hospitality and learned leadership through real, daily work
Built experience from front desk roles to operations and sales
Carries responsibility shaped by working in a family-owned hotel business
Believes service means consistency, listening, and follow-through
Leads with a steady, people-first approach grounded in experience
Hospitality has a way of teaching you early. You learn quickly that people remember how you show up, especially when things don’t go as planned. That lesson has stayed with me through every role I’ve held and every responsibility I’ve taken on.
My path into hospitality wasn’t a straight line. It was built through real work, real people, and everyday decisions that matter more than they seem at the time.
Learning What Hospitality Really Means
I grew up around hotels, but my understanding of the industry came from being in it. I worked front desk roles, supported events, and handled the daily flow of guests and teams. I saw how much trust people place in us when they stay at our properties.
Those early experiences shaped how I view service. I focus on consistency, attention, and care. When a guest raises a concern or a team member needs support, your response sets the tone. Those moments build responsibility in a very real way.
Carrying Responsibility in a Family Business
Today, I work within my family’s hotel business, supporting sales and operations. Being part of a family-owned operation adds another layer to leadership. Decisions affect employees, long-term stability, and the reputation built over years.
You think carefully about what you commit to and how you follow through. You learn to balance growth with sustainability. Leadership shows up through dependability and follow-through.
That mindset guides how I approach my work every day. I focus on listening, staying informed, and making thoughtful decisions that respect both people and the business.
Why Service Still Guides My Leadership
Alongside my professional work, I’ve stayed active with AAHOA through committee involvement and regional service. These roles have allowed me to learn from women and leaders at many stages of ownership and leadership.
What stands out to me is how much of this industry is held together by steady service. Many women lead quietly. They support teams, families, and businesses without seeking attention. They value follow-through and trust.
That’s the kind of leadership I believe in. Showing up consistently. Listening before speaking. Respecting the foundation already built while staying open to learning.
Service isn’t something you outgrow as your role changes. It becomes more important. It shapes how you represent others and how you carry responsibility.
Moving Forward, Together
My path in hospitality continues to shape how I lead and how I serve. I believe in staying grounded, staying present, and staying connected to the people who make this industry work every day.
If my story resonates with you, I hope you’ll stay connected, share your perspective, and be part of the ongoing conversation. Hospitality is strongest when we learn from each other and move forward together.
