The Barton School of Business is the home of real and applied learning. A place where
students apply knowledge gained from faculty and business leaders while developing
professional and life skills. The Barton School is among the top 1% of business schools
worldwide due to its double AACSB accreditation in business and accounting. Housed
in the award-winning Woolsey Hall, the school features artwork, sculptures, gardens,
and The Promise Bridge—a 300-foot-long pedestrian bridge over the water in front of
the building.
The Barton School of Business at Wichita State University has launched its Hospitality
Advisory Board, bringing together accomplished leaders from across the industry to
help shape and elevate its undergraduate hospitality program and build a strong talent
pipeline.
“The launch of the Hospitality Advisory Board reflects our commitment to building
a program that is deeply connected to industry and positioned for national leadership,”
said Dr. Larisa Genin, dean of the Barton School of Business. “By engaging accomplished
leaders with diverse expertise and a global perspective, we are creating transformative
opportunities for our students and setting a new standard for hospitality education
at Wichita State.”
Chaired by Nikki Beyrle, Hospitality Executive-in-Residence and Chief Human Resources
Officer at LDF Companies, the board represents a strategic step in advancing the Barton
School’s vision through industry insight, mentorship, and applied learning opportunities.
“The launch of the Hospitality Advisory Board marks a defining moment for our program,”
said Beyrle. “We are bringing together leaders who understand that hospitality is
ultimately about people, experience, and innovation. Together, we are building a program
that prepares students not just for careers, but to lead and transform the industry.”
The board includes leaders from major hospitality markets across the country, reflecting
a mix of local expertise and national perspective across hotels, restaurants, revenue
management, and emerging technology.
Inaugural Hospitality Advisory Board
The Hospitality Advisory Board includes the following members:
Amy Waysack, Senior Product Leader – AI-Powered Bookings, Marriott International Location: Las Vegas, Nevada / Washington, D.C. Industry: Hotels
Erik Johnson, Restaurateur / Certified Sommelier, Independent Location: Napa Valley, California Industry: Restaurants / Beverage
Ryan Bond, Chief People Officer, Thrive Restaurant Group Location: Wichita, Kansas Industry: Restaurants / People Strategy
John Crow, Founder / Owner, Crow Hospitality Investment Group Location: Atlanta, Georgia Industry: Hotels / Investment
Angel Christopher Gomez, Senior Vice President of Global Consumer Sales, Service, and Reservations | AmaWaterways Location:Calabasas, California Industry:Cruises / Hospitality
Board members will provide strategic guidance in areas including curriculum innovation,
mentorship, guest lectures, internships, and employment pathways, ensuring students
gain meaningful, real-world experience aligned with industry needs.
“As hospitality continues to evolve through technology and changing guest expectations,
it’s critical that education evolves alongside it,” said Amy Waysack. “I’m excited
to contribute to a program that is preparing students to think differently, adapt
quickly, and lead in a more connected and data-driven industry.”
For Erik Johnson, the opportunity to shape future talent is rooted in the fundamentals
of the industry.
“Hospitality, at its core, is about craft, service, and creating memorable experiences,”
said Johnson. “Investing in students and sharing real-world perspective is one of
the most meaningful ways we can strengthen the future of our industry.”
The advisory board will play a critical role in advancing the program by driving enrollment
growth, strengthening industry partnerships, expanding high-impact learning opportunities,
building a robust talent pipeline, and positioning the program as a regional and national
leader with growing global recognition.
“I’ve seen firsthand how strong programs and mentorship can shape future entrepreneurs,”
said Scott Redler. “Creating those connections between students and industry is what
drives long-term success.”
As the board continues to expand, the Barton School will further strengthen its network
of industry leaders, positioning Wichita State as a hub for hospitality talent, innovation,
and leadership development.Students interested in hospitality can learn more about the program and opportunities
at https://www.wichita.edu/hospitality.
Industry professionals interested in supporting the Hospitality Program through mentorship,
guest speaking, or partnership opportunities are encouraged to connect with Nikki Beyrledirectly at Nicole.Beyrle@wichita.edu.
