Arlene Ramirez
Principal
Arlene is a hospitality professional with a unique range of industry experiences, from finance to operations to development and education. A significant portion of her career was dedicated to working directly in the industry both at the corporate and property levels of management companies, luxury chains and luxury country clubs. All of this has provided a strong foundation in bridging the gap between education and application.
Within the education field she has been recognized with teaching and service awards. She has extensive experience in developing assessment analysis, being responsible for the development of reporting at the university college level for Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, a regional accrediting agency.
Arlene has served on various boards and committees for hospitality organizations and is frequently called upon to present or author articles on the finance and technology aspects of the industry.
Agnes DeFranco
Principal
With thirty years of education experience, Agnes is a chair professor with a strong demonstrated history of working in the areas of higher, executive, and continuing education. Skilled in curriculum design and assessment, career development, coaching, and lecturing, she develops and delivers learning in face-to-face, hybrid, and online environments, including assisting other universities and organizations in developing courses and programs. Agnes has worked in the food and beverage industry, published five textbooks and over 200 refereed and invited papers, focusing in finance and operations.
Agnes has served on both educational and professional boards, in positions ranging from executive committee members to president/chairperson. She co-chaired a state-wide committee to develop the higher education general education requirements for the State of Texas. She currently serves on the Global Finance Committee of the 12th edition of the Uniform System of Accounts for the Lodging Industry.