Hocking College welcomes Dr. Arlene Garrick as director of hospitality, culinary and lodge operations

Hocking College has appointed Dr. Arlene M. Howell Garrick as its new director of hospitality, culinary and lodge operations, bringing more than 20 years of experience in higher education, workforce development and hospitality leadership to the role.

Dr. Garrick’s career spans academic institutions in the United States, Canada and Jamaica, where she has taught, mentored and developed curriculum focused on applied learning. Her work has centered on helping students build real skills and preparing them for success beyond the classroom.

In her new role, Dr. Garrick will oversee hospitality and culinary academic programs while also leading operations at The Lodge, a campus facility that supports both instruction and guest services.

“I am honored to serve as Director of Hospitality, Culinary, and Lodge Operations at Hocking College,” Dr. Garrick said. “This role brings together my passion for student development, experiential learning, and industry engagement. My priority is to create meaningful, hands-on opportunities that prepare students for successful careers while strengthening the connection between the classroom, the lodge, and the hospitality industry.”

Throughout her career, Dr. Garrick has focused on expanding access and strengthening connections between education and employment. She is the founder of Bridging the Gap, an initiative that connects employers with a diverse group of job candidates before positions are formally posted, helping improve hiring practices and create more opportunities.

She also developed the Cross-Cultural Effectiveness Model, a research-based framework that improves intercultural understanding and reduces bias in hiring and workplace practices. In addition, she created the CREAM framework, which combines hands-on learning with the skills employers are looking for to prepare students for management roles.
At Hocking College, Dr. Garrick said she plans to build on the foundation already in place while creating new opportunities for students to gain experience and grow.

“I am excited to build on the strong foundation already in place by expanding industry partnerships, enhancing experiential learning at the lodge, and increasing student involvement in real-world operations,” she said. “I also plan to focus on elevating the visibility of our programs, supporting faculty collaboration, and creating innovative experiences that reflect the evolving hospitality and culinary landscape.”

She said student success will remain central to her work.

“Most importantly, students are at the center of every decision I make,” Dr. Garrick said. “My goal is to ensure they graduate not only with knowledge, but with confidence, leadership skills, and practical experience that set them apart. I am truly excited about the future and the opportunity to grow these programs while supporting student success at every level.”
Outside of her professional work, Dr. Garrick is also a memoirist and poet. She brings that creative perspective into her leadership, using storytelling as a way to build connection, reinforce learning and inspire growth.

Hocking College is excited to welcome Dr. Garrick as its hospitality and culinary programs continue to grow and serve students in meaningful ways.