Advisory Board

The Hospitality, Restaurant and Tourism Management program advisory board is a group of 18 industry experts who provide a connection and ongoing exchange of information, ideas and collaboration between program faculty, staff and students. Each member was selected for their expertise and commitment to the success of the UNL Hospitality, Restaurant and Tourism Management program and its students.

Some of the duties and requirements of the board include, but are not excluded to:
  • attending all board meetings
  • staying informed about student curriculum, services and supports, and activities
  • assisting with funding allocations
  • providing opportunities and serving as mentors

The advisory board works hand in hand with the HRTM program director, faculty, and staff to prepare students for leadership roles in the hospitality industry. 


Headshot of Jeff Maul
  • Jeff Maul
  • Chair UNL HRTM Advisory Board
  • Executive Director, Lincoln Convention and Visitors Bureau & Vice President Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
  • LinkedIn
Headshot of Deb Ward
  • Deb Ward
  • Executive Director Visit Omaha
  • LinkedIn
Headshot of John Ricks
  • John Ricks
  • Executive Director at Nebraska Tourism Commission
  • LinkedIn
Headshot of Tom McKitterick
  • Tom McKitterick, CCM, CCE
  • General Manager at Omaha Country Club
  • LinkedIn
Headshot of Andy Reetz
  • Andy Reetz, CCM
  • CEO/General Manager at Champions Run Country Club
  • LinkedIn
Headshot of Tim Darby
  • Tim Darby
  • Chair Elect UNL HRTM Advisory Board
  • General Manager, Magnolia Hotel Omaha
  • LinkedIn
Headshot of Jeff Boeka
  • Jeff Boeka
  • Director of Hotel Operations at Wilkinson Companies
Headshot of Rachel McConnell
  • Rachel McConnell-HRTM Class of 2011
  • Director of UNL Visitors Center and Special Events
  • LinkedIn
Headshot of Shelly Richardson
Headshot of Linda Hrdlicka
  • Linda Hrdlicka
  • Founder and President of Food Service Marketing
Headshot of Brandon Akert
  • Brandon Akert-HRTM Class of 2012
  • Co-Owner at Gate 25 & Restaurant and Yes Chef Catering Company
  • LinkedIn
Headshot of Jennifer Monroe
  • Jennifer Monroe
  • Human Resources Supervisor
  • Duncan Aviation
  • LinkedIn
Headshot of Jenessa Keiser
  • Jenessa Keiser
  • HR Director
  • Charon Shared Services
  • Lincoln Surgical Hospital
  • Eye Surgical Associates
  • LinkedIn
Headshot of Dana Hatcliff
  • Dana Hatcliff
  • Human Resources Business Partner
  • Bryan Health
  • LinkedIn
Headshot of Zach Tyson
Headshot of Zoe Olson
  • Zoe Olson
  • Executive Director
  • Nebraska Hospitality Association
  • Hospitality Educational Foundation
  • LinkedIn
Headshot of Phil Grimpo
  • Phil Grimpo
  • Executive Director
  • Inspirmedia Productions
  • LinkedIn