Our alumni excel in the hospitality industry and as entrepreneurs and executives.

They also support current students by serving as internship mentors, guest speakers, student organization sponsors, and by providing opportunities for graduating seniors. 

We count on alumni for their continued support and are proud to support them as their own careers blossom and flourish.

Tell us what you're up to - send us a picture - let us know what changes have taken place in your career so we can share your successes with you!

  • Visit HRTM online at: hrtm.unl.edu/home
  • Hashtag for X/Twitter & Instagram: #HRTM_UNL
  • Contact:

Joan Kunzman Administrative Support Associate, HRTM

 

Featured Alumni

Mac Carney

linkedin.com/in/mac-carney-20156017a

Mac Carney
B.A., Hospitality, Restaurant and Tourism Management, 2020
Place of employment: Ridgewood Rehabilitation & Care Center
Job title: People Development Coordinator/HR Manager

"My favorite memory would be the reason I joined HRTM. I was walking down the hall after visiting with someone at the HRTM office and I smelled cookies. I peeked into the catering lab and Ajai was there making chocolate chip cookies. We chatted for a bit and he gave me a cookie. I was sold on HRTM after that. 

If you’re thinking about HRTM, do it. I wasn’t sure either because I had changed my major so many times and my mom told me no. But in the end it was the place I was supposed to be and I haven’t looked back a day. HRTM is that home for everyone who is looking for their home." 

Brooke Goedert

linkedin.com/in/brooke-goedert-63252357/

Brooke Goedert
B.A., Hospitality, Restaurant and Tourism Management, 2014
Place of employment: Nebraska Innovation Campus
Job title: Culture & Operations Manager

In Brooke's current role at Nebraska Innovation Campus, she is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the corporation as well as developing events and implementing programs that encourage collaboration and partnerships between NIC, the university, and the community. NIC programs are focused on creating opportunities for people with different skill sets to meet and socialize, a critical aspect in developing a culture that embraces and sparks innovation.

"In 2013, I was sitting in Dipra Jha’s advanced lodging class when he shared about his vision for someday building a teaching and research hotel right here at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln to supercharge college students with real world experiences that would prepare them for future endeavors. That someday is today! Fast-forward nine years and in 2022 The Scarlet Hotel opened at Nebraska Innovation Campus. Soon, the HRTM program will be moving into The Scarlet Hotel and I will get a chance to work alongside many of my former professors.”

Brooke's advice to students students considering HRTM: “As a HRTM student you get the opportunity to fulfill three internships. Intern at three different companies to experience each component of hospitality, restaurant & tourism management to see what makes your own light shine bright.”

Emily Kaye

linkedin.com/in/emily-kaye-52b4a657/

Kyla Kosalka
B.A., Hospitality, Restaurant and Tourism Management, 2016
Place of employment: Quore Systems
Job title: Account Executive

"I started working in hotel operations in college and after graduation. The pandemic had different plans for me! I ended up finding Quore through LinkedIn when looking to take a shift in my career. Quore is a service optimization program that helps hotels streamline operations. I talk with hotel management companies and general managers every day to help them better understand our services. I’m so happy that I got to stay in the hospitality industry despite all the changes that went in the world. 

There are so many fun memories from HRTM but traveling to Dubai with my classmates tops them all. The study tours are such a great learning experience! If you have a chance to go, do not hesitate! You will never regret it.  

My advice for future HRTM students is to keep an open mind when trying to decide what you want to do in Hospitality. There are so many options. The great part about HRTM is that it teaches you life skills that goes beyond the classroom."

Kyla Kosalka

linkedin.com/in/kyla-kosalka-m-s-organizational-management-a66a6784/

Kyla Kosalka
B.S., Hospitality, Restaurant and Tourism Management, 2015
Place of employment: Lied Lodge Arbor Day Farm (An Arbor Day Foundation Property)
Job title: Conference Manager

"I started working in hotel operations in college and after graduation. The pandemic had different plans for me! I ended up finding Quore through LinkedIn when looking to take a shift in my career. Quore is a service optimization program that helps hotels streamline operations. I talk with hotel management companies and general managers every day to help them better understand our services. I’m so happy that I got to stay in the hospitality industry despite all the changes that went on in the world.

There are so many memories that were made! I could talk about our time abroad in India but I would have to say my favorite memory would be catering class! It was what jump started my love for food and beverage. We would make all sorts of wonderful things, and cater to many fun events!! The comradery around the kitchen is what made it all so wonderful. 

Try everything! Take every class, go on at least one study abroad or study tour, and always say yes to a new adventure. It will help you immensely in figuring out what your passion is. Hospitality is a large field. Jump at every opportunity given to you!"

Caitlin Mell

linkedin.com/in/caitlin-mell-cmp-cpce-7234b26b/

Mell Caitlin
B.S., Hospitality, Restaurant and Tourism Management, 2011
Place of employment: Kiewit
Job title: People Event Logistics Specialist

"One of my favorite memories of the HRTM program was before I was even part of it. I originally went to college to study Journalism then transferred to Elementary Education while working at the Cornhusker Marriott as a Cocktail Waitress. During my time learning to be a teacher, there was a presentation on what the HRTM program was. I knew that is where I belonged and transferred immediately to this program that has allowed me to grow my career to what it is today.

If you are considering the HRTM program, go all in. Take advantage of the Internships and networking groups such as NACE, WIPA, CMAA and MPI as those open all the doors to your future. And remember, while you can learn facts all day, creating memorable experiences is what it is all about."