Executive Advisory Board

The Executive Advisory Board is the FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management's principal body serving to provide an external perspective on the school’s objectives. The Executive Advisory Board (formerly known as the Dean’s Advisory Council) is comprised of executive-level alumni and dedicated partners who have a strong desire to support the Chaplin mission and goals with seasoned experience in the hospitality industry. Board members provide guidance on industry trends, strategic planning, recruitment and placement, and serve as global community ambassadors.

In Memoriam

  • Jay Litt '73

    Jay Litt '73
    President, The Litt Group Capital Project Administration & Consulting


Student Representative

 Yasmine Tesone headshot

Isabella Perez

Bio:

Isabella Perez is a dedicated student at FIU’s Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, she has received her bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management in Spring 2025, and is set to graduate with her master’s degree in Spring 2026. She is currently the Communications & Experience Graduate Assistant for the Bacardi Center of Excellence, managing a team of student leaders, spearheading engagement initiatives including Bacardi brand home visits, masterclasses, student education sessions, and an upcoming industry speed competition, while maintaining the organizations LinkedIn presence.

Isabella's career path is focused on leading innovation in the beverage sector of the industry, with a specific interest in representing a brand as a brand ambassador. Her career goal is to continue training and educating others, a passion she has cultivated through her experience with BCE. Her goal for the rest of her time at FIU is to guide and engage with other students that are following similar paths through the hospitality industry, develop the future leadership team of BCE to carry on the learning opportunities, and grow student attendance of Bartenders Guild meetings through engagement at the Modesto Madique Campus.

Isabella has significantly contributed to the South Beach Wine and Food Festival, designing cocktail menus for prominent venues and catering to over 10,000 guests. Her academic roles include serving as a Teaching Assistant for The Grutman Experience and Advanced Food and Beverage Operations course. Her achievements, including scholarships like the Cameron G. Scholderer and Lee Brian Schrager awards, underscore her commitment to excellence and leadership in hospitality.