The College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management has had a busy start to the spring 2021 semester and is proud to announce its newest faculty and staff.

Lori Pennington-Gray, Endowed Chair and Director, SmartState Center for Economic Excellence in Tourism and Economic Development
Lori Pennington-Gray started her new role in January as endowed chair and director of the SmartState Center for Economic Excellence in Tourism – which is part of the School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management. She joins the University of South Carolina faculty after 21 years at the University of Florida. Her research focuses on tourism development and crisis management, and she is recognized as a global leader whose expertise is featured regularly in national and international media outlets.

Finn Owen, Assistant Director of Development
Finn Owen is a 2019 University of South Carolina alumnus and a third-generation Gamecock who has returned to UofSC as a member of the College of HRSM development team. Before joining the college, Owen served as programs and events coordinator for the nonprofit Curing Kids Cancer, where he helped raise more than $300,000 for childhood cancer research.

Lyndsey Herring, Administrative Coordinator, Department of Retailing
Lyndsey Herring is an HRSM alumna who has come home to her alma mater as a key member of the Department of Retailing staff. She graduated from the college in 2013 with a B.S. in Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management focused on meeting and event planning. Prior to joining the college she served as director of alumni relations at the University of South Carolina Alumni Association. While a student, Herring was a member of the Mighty Sound of the Southeast Marching Band.

Katie Sites, Administrative Coordinator, Dean’s Office
Katie Sites is new to the HRSM staff, but she is no stranger to the University of South Carolina. She is an HRSM alumna (BAIS, 2019) and worked with the Provost’s Office in academic programs since 2016. A California native, Sites is a devoted volunteer for the United Services Organization (USO) at the Columbia Metropolitan Airport, and a Green Zone Ally member and UofSC Wellness Ambassador.

The college extends a warm welcome to the newest members of its team!

View the College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management faculty and staff directory here.