Meet Team Ivy

With more than seven years at Witness Investment as Principal, Asset Management, Tommy honed his expertise in hospitality consulting, property management, and tenacious leadership. 

Tommy developed a strong foundation in the world of hospitality at the age of 16, where he learned the intricacies of hotel operations from the ground up. Today, his passion for the industry led him to imagine new opportunities for innovation in the sector. Outside of work, Tommy enjoys DIY projects at home, helping his husband flip homes, exploring new restaurants, and hanging with their dogs, Cooper and Maggie. 

On leadership and legacy: My grandmother, whom Ivy Hospitality is lovingly named after, taught me the value of consistency and the benefits of hard work. She drove me to my very first job interview at a hotel—where it all began! 

She brings exceptional communication skills, a keen eye for detail, and a love for people to her role at Ivy Hospitality. Prior to this role, Nina served as an Executive Assistant at Hamilton and OneAmerica. 

A native of Indianapolis, Nina enjoys spending time with “Team Thomas,” which includes her husband Chad, two children, Lakley and Hogan, and their four-legged kids, Milo and Mellow. She can be found driving her Jeep, thrifting, and exploring new restaurants. Nina holds a bachelor’s degree from Indiana Bible College. 

Why hospitality: I love hospitality because, at its core, it’s about people—connecting with them, understanding their needs, and making them feel valued. It’s incredibly fulfilling to create memorable experiences and forge genuine connections. 

 As Vice President of Owner Success at Ivy Hospitality, Brett focuses on cultivating deep relationships with hotel owners. Led by his passion for relationship-building and team development, Brett has held key roles at various hospitality groups, including Asset Manager at Witness Investment and Manager positions at White Lodging and Dora Hospitality Group.   

Outside of work, as a season ticket holder for the Chicago Bears, you can find Brett at Soldier Field. Originally from Dyer, Indiana, Brett holds a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Purdue University and certifications in Hospitality Strategy and Hotel Management and Owner Relations from Cornell University. 

What legacy means to Brett: Legacy is about fostering a culture of excellence and empowerment. It means ensuring that every team member feels valued and inspired to reach their fullest potential. 

In her role, Amanda leads human resources and organizational development strategies to ensure our team thrives. She previously served as VP of Human Resources and Corporate Communications at Cummins-Wagner Co., Inc. 

When not at work, Amanda enjoys spending time with her family and creating memories together. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Human Capital Development from The University of Southern Mississippi. 

Why hospitality: My journey in hospitality started when I was 15 years old, working as a server at a local restaurant. I learned then that exceptional customer service is not only about meeting someone’s needs—but creating a memorable experience that leaves a lasting impression. Hospitality is more than just a job to me; it is home. 

From managing teams at a wide range of properties to overseeing multi-property operations, Janelle excels at driving operational excellence and growth. 

Originally from Elysburg, Pennsylvania, Janelle now resides in Indianapolis. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Hotel Administration from Cornell University. Outside of work, she can be found exploring the region with her two pups: Penelope and Bruce Lee. 

‍Why hospitality: I grew up on a farm in Pennsylvania, and each summer we would sell produce at our farm market. This experience instilled the importance of customer service. When college approached, I knew I loved business and people—and wanted a school and major that reflected just that.

In her role, Jennifer oversees revenue generation strategies and develops new processes to drive performance. Before joining Ivy Hospitality, Jennifer served as the Vice President of Revenue Management at McNeill Hotel Company and Director of Revenue Management at Hilton for over a decade. 

Beyond her professional life, Jennifer is deeply committed to giving back to her community. She is an avid volunteer at Give Kids the World and engages in pet therapy with her Golden Retriever, Renegade (a.k.a. Rennie). She holds a degree in Hospitality Administration from Florida State University.

‍What excites Jennifer about working in hospitality: The people! Our team members, our guests, our brand partners, our owners, and our community. Every day is different and rewarding in its own way—all because of the people we encounter.

Prior to joining Ivy Hospitality, Gina served as Controller at Ivy’s sister company, Witness Investment. She worked in accounting for Prince Bush Hotels for nearly 30 years. 

Outside of work, Gina enjoys camping in Maryland and Florida. She holds a certification in Hospitality Accounting from Cornell University. 

‍What legacy means to Gina: When the word “legacy” comes to mind, I am immediately transported to the realm of family. I consider myself immensely fortunate to be a humble contributor to the grand tapestry that is the Ivy Hospitality legacy.

Scott has held key roles at Hotel Equities, Sage Hospitality, and White Lodging. 

Scott’s professional career is rooted in driving results, fostering team growth, and exceeding market expectations. Outside of work, Scott loves to spend time at the dog park with his two Australian Shepherds, Kaleb and Brody. 

What excites Scott about working in hospitality: Being part of a new organization like Ivy is incredibly exciting. I take great pride in my role as a leader. Seeing my team develop and succeed is fulfilling and motivating—it fuels my passion for what we’re building together.  

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Prior to beginning his career in IT, Joe worked both in operations and front-of-house positions at White Lodging and Hilton, giving him unique insight into the world of hospitality. 

Joe is a native Hoosier and holds degrees from Ivy Tech Community College and Indiana University Indianapolis. 

Joe’s favorite childhood memory of visiting a hotel: When an associate would go out of their way to connect with my family, sharing about their own life and the place we were visiting—that’s what’s special about hospitality! 

Throughout her career, she has cultivated a deep expertise in employee engagement, talent development, and organizational success. 

Before joining Ivy, Dulce held senior HR positions at White Lodging and Kohl’s. Outside of work, Dulce enjoys spending time with family, playing pickleball, and gardening. 

‍On legacy: I want my legacy to be one of helping those around me be the best version of themselves. When people think of me long after our time together, I want them to think of my commitment to bettering any environment or community I’m part of.