Leadership Team

Kiel is an experienced workforce and professional development manager with a proven record in higher education. He is passionate about creating lifelong learning opportunities.

With an entrepreneurial and creative spirit, he balances serving the community and meeting learners’ needs while maintaining the organization’s financial health. Focused on both internal and external growth, he aims to help those around him develop through challenging assignments and investments in their professional growth.

With over 15 years of experience in higher education, Kiel has expertise in strategic planning, resource allocation, program development, nonprofit organizations, program evaluation, customer relationship management (CRM), and event management.

Rob is an experienced hospitality leader with over 20 years in food and beverage. Originally from Charleston, SC, Rob grew up working in his father’s bakery and developed an early passion for coastal cuisine and guest service. Before joining the University of Georgia in 2013, he spent nearly ten years in Atlanta’s Buckhead restaurant scene, sharpening his culinary and leadership skills.

From 2013 to 2025, Rob served as Executive Chef at the Georgia Center, managing menu development, catering, and conference dining. Now as Director of Food & Beverage, he oversees all dining operations, including banquets, The Savannah Room, Bulldog Bistro, and catering.

Known for building high-performing teams and delivering service excellence, Rob collaborates closely with the hotel, sales, and events teams to create memorable guest experiences and strong financial results. He is a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu and a passionate supporter of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

Jake is a seasoned hotelier with over 17 years of leadership experience across a wide range of hospitality environments. His background includes key roles at Marriott International, The Ritz-Carlton, and the Walt Disney Company.

He specializes in best-in-class guest experience, rooms division management, and hotel operations in both independent boutique and large-scale properties. Jake is a key member of the UGA Center for Continuing Education & Hotel operational leadership team and is accountable for all hotel operations at the Georgia Center.

He is responsible for maintaining ethical leadership, outstanding guest relations, and excellent performance from team members while representing the nationally recognized brand of the University of Georgia.

KT Cooke has over 20 years of experience in event planning and hospitality. She leads large-scale events, ensuring exceptional client experiences, and serves on the Executive Council, guiding strategic planning and policies.

She also directs the Hospitality and Food Industry Management Internship Program. Her extensive background includes managing over 400 events at Ole Miss and executing high-profile events for collegiate athletic brands. She began her career at the Colonnade Group, designing premium seating for major conferences.

KT holds a JD and BA from the University of Mississippi, combining legal expertise with hospitality leadership.