Honors & Awards Dinner

Chris Burr

Director of Nontraditional Development

Dunkin' Brands

Chris Burr is director of Nontraditional Development for Dunkin’ Brands US. He leads the development team responsible for placing Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin Robbins in non-traditional locations such as military bases, lodging, airports, college & university, business and industry, grocery and big-box retail.

Chris offers more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Prior to joining Dunkin’ Donuts, he held a development position with Yum Brands, the parent company of Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, and KFC. He also served in franchise development for Choice Hotels International and as brand director for Sleep Inn.

Chris holds a degree in hospitality management awarded by the College of Business at Florida State University in 1982, and currently resides in Virginia Beach, VA.

Jane Ohlin

Associate Professor

Florida State University Dedman College of Hospitality

Jane Boyd Ohlin has been an integral part of the Dedman College of Hospitality at Florida State University since 1989, where she has held various key positions. Currently serving as the Director of Strategic Development, she focuses on advancing the college's international academic programs and special projects. From 2008 to 2015, she led Dedman as its director, overseeing a period of growth and development that strengthened the institution's faculty and student culture.

Dr. Ohlin's academic journey began at Florida State University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel and Restaurant Administration in 1979. After gaining hands-on industry experience, she pursued her Juris Doctor at FSU’s School of Law, graduating in 1986. She balanced her legal expertise with a passion for hospitality, co-authoring the 8th edition of the textbook Hotel, Restaurant, and Travel Law: A Preventive Approach.

Throughout her career, Dr. Ohlin has been dedicated to providing students with enriching educational experiences.

As an educator, she teaches courses in hospitality law and service management, encouraging students to engage in study abroad opportunities, build professional networks, and seek mentorship from industry leaders. Her legacy is one of leadership, mentorship, and a deep commitment to student success.

La'Quana Cooper

Assistant GM, Human Resources Manager

Aimbridge Hospitality, The Henderson Park Inn

La’Quana Cooper (2019) began her career at the Doubletree Downtown Nashville, where she gained experience in multiple roles, including Security and Sales. She later joined Henderson Park Inn as the Operations and Lofts Club Manager, eventually becoming Executive Assistant to the General Manager. By 2021, she had advanced to Human Resource Manager and is currently serving as Assistant General Manager. In addition to her impressive career, La’Quana spent six years as an Office Manager/Project Coordinator at Anderson & Associates Construction while completing her degree. She just recently accepted a new position with the Department of Defense. La’Quana’s achievements and dedication have earned her the prestigious Emerging Professional Award. 

Nicole Oreo

Senior Event Manager, Catering

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin

Nicole Oreo (2016) has made significant strides in her career at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin. Over the course of seven years, she has received seven promotions and is currently the Senior Events Manager. Her journey reflects her remarkable work ethic, talent, and commitment to excellence in the hospitality industry. Nicole’s deep connection to FSU Dedman and her career success have earned her the Emerging Professional Award, celebrating her as a rising star in the field.

Jack Walker

General Manager, Bayshore Landing Marina

Suntex Marinas

Jack Walker (2020) has quickly risen through the ranks in the marina management industry. After beginning as an intern at the Manhattan Yacht Club in 2019, he became a Manager in Training at Suntex in Texas and was promoted to General Manager of Bayshore Landing Marina by 2021. Jack’s leadership and dedication to his profession have earned him the Emerging Professional Award, showcasing his achievements in the field of marina management.