Leslie Kosky is an associate professor and an advisor to first-year Hospitality students. She formerly served as the director of Travel Practicum for the Hospitality College, where she was responsible for organizing and overseeing FAM trips to international destinations. She has traveled extensively throughout the world including China.
Originally from Pennsylvania, Kosky has been at Johnson & Wales since 1997. She has expertise in student advising, as well as the following areas: Front Office, Guest Services, Reservations, Catering Sales, Night Audit, Concierge and Food & Beverage.
Kosky came to JWU from Guam Community College, where she was a department chairperson and professor in the Hospitality Department. Stemming from her certification in Leadership Development from the National Community College Chair Academy, she developed and coordinated leadership development training programs for educators from Guam and other Micronesian islands.
Kosky’s many years of professional industry experience includes managerial positions with Westin Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels, and Disney World Golf Resort. She is a Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE), a member of ICHRIE (International Council of Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Education), and a member of the Rhode Island Hospitality Association.
Kosky believes in a learner-centered active classroom. She is currently a team member of the Collaborative Learning Program (CLP), a JWU initiative that coordinates studies, research projects and field activities between the various colleges to enhance the learning experience and build community among students and faculty. She was instrumental in creating and conducting our Concierge Workshop for students.