I am the Director of an Innovation Lab at the International Gaming Institute at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. In that role, I create and guide multi-disciplinary students in solving real-world problems through innovative solutions. These solutions, in turn, create opportunities for economic development through the launch of startups, protection and commercialization of intellectual property or future careers for the students. I also work closely with the colleges of engineering and architecture in mentoring and advising students on senior design projects.

My CV includes over 25 years of hospitality, gaming and land development experience, including Senior VP and CMO roles for both small private to large public companies. I am in the last stage of completion of my Ph.D. with a research emphasis on consumer behavior and human learning. I will be finished this Fall.

I am a co-founder of two tech-driven startups and a partner in a venture capital firm focused on the development of socially responsible innovations.

As I mentioned, I am the co-founder of an innovative technology in the wine and beverage industry. I am also a co-founder on another innovative technology for the hospitality industry post-pandemic.

I speak at events ranging from gaming to technology to esports and tourism. I am an expert frequently interviewed on the topics of post-pandemic recovery, robotics, artificial intelligence, and other technology applications.

I devote considerable service to mentoring students, companies and startups. This past summer was spent mentoring several student teams in the Duke University Project Phoenix. I am also a regular speaker in the UNLV/UNR Executive Development Program and the IGI's Young Executive Scholars Program.

Beginning in August 2020, I am directing The CoLab Esports Innovation Lab Project being developed at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) International Gaming Institute’s Hospitality and Esports Labs.The CoLab Esports Innovation Lab Project is the first of its kind and a major step in funding development in the hospitality and gaming industries post-COVID-19 pandemic era.

I have an MBA from the University of Georgia's Terry College of Business; hold the Wine Scholar's Education Trust Certifications for Level I and II; and a BS degree in Finance from the University of Wyoming. After graduating with my undergraduate degree, I served in the United States Navy as a pilot.