Emerging Professional Award

Devin Birkes

Senior Analyst, Commercial Planning

Royal Caribbean

A 2016 graduate of the Dedman College of Hospitality, Devin Birkes launched his career at the Four Seasons Miami as a front desk agent. Over nearly a decade, he rose through the ranks, earning six promotions and taking on leadership roles in front office, revenue management, and reservations. His innovative tools and strategies have been adopted by more than 20 Four Seasons properties and are under review for global implementation as “Best Practice” models. Devin recently joined Royal Caribbean, where he continues to apply his expertise in revenue strategy and data analytics. Outside of work, he enjoys scuba diving, basketball, and working on his first book.

Karin Bittong

Area General Manager

Dimension Hospitality

Karin Bittong has spent the past seven years growing her career with Dimension Hospitality, where she first joined as an executive housekeeper in 2018. Today, she serves as an Area General Manager, overseeing multiple properties and leading teams committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences. Known for cultivating a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement, Karin is passionate about creating meaningful moments for both guests and staff. She credits her success to the mentors who have guided her and her deep-rooted love for the hospitality industry.

Samantha Fleisher

Director of Finance

Loews Atlanta Hotel

Samantha Fleisher is a double graduate of Florida State University, earning her undergraduate degrees in Real Estate and Hospitality & Tourism Management in 2019, followed by an MBA with a focus in Real Estate Finance in 2022. Her career began with internships in food & beverage at the Ritz-Carlton Herzliya, Israel, and in finance at the Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta, where she later joined full-time as a finance manager in training. She was promoted to staff accountant in 2021, then relocated to New York as assistant director of finance at the Baccarat Hotel. She later joined the opening team of The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel—the brand’s first U.S. property. In 2025, Samantha returned to Atlanta to become Director of Finance at the Loews Atlanta Hotel. She credits much of her success to the guidance of Dedman mentors, especially Dr. Brymer and Dr. Line.