Meet Our Team
ALICIA PAYSENO
Chief Executive Officer
[email protected]
Alicia leads AHA's statewide strategy, advocacy, member growth and industry partnerships. She brings extensive experience in economic and community development and holds the Professional Community & Economic Developer certification.
SHAY STOUT
Chief Operating Officer
[email protected]
Shay leads organizational strategy and operations across finance, membership, programs and government affairs. Since joining AHA in 2023, he has strengthened member value, organizational systems and industry advocacy.
LAUREN ANDERSON
Chief Revenue Officer
[email protected]
Lauren leads membership growth and retention, strategic partnerships and revenue development. Her background in project management, events, public relations and small-business ownership helps AHA build practical benefits and lasting member relationships.
DYLAN KINKADE
Chief Marketing Officer
[email protected]
Dylan leads AHA's marketing, communications and storytelling across the association's programs and priorities. Their experience in service, business operations and public engagement helps connect AHA's work with members and the broader hospitality community.
RENEE SMITH
Coordinator of Education
[email protected]
Renee coordinates AHA's education programs, including ServSafe and ProStart. She brings deep experience in culinary and hospitality education, including leadership roles with the UA-Pulaski Technical College Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Institute.
Chief Executive Officer
[email protected]
Alicia leads AHA's statewide strategy, advocacy, member growth and industry partnerships. She brings extensive experience in economic and community development and holds the Professional Community & Economic Developer certification.
SHAY STOUT
Chief Operating Officer
[email protected]
Shay leads organizational strategy and operations across finance, membership, programs and government affairs. Since joining AHA in 2023, he has strengthened member value, organizational systems and industry advocacy.
LAUREN ANDERSON
Chief Revenue Officer
[email protected]
Lauren leads membership growth and retention, strategic partnerships and revenue development. Her background in project management, events, public relations and small-business ownership helps AHA build practical benefits and lasting member relationships.
DYLAN KINKADE
Chief Marketing Officer
[email protected]
Dylan leads AHA's marketing, communications and storytelling across the association's programs and priorities. Their experience in service, business operations and public engagement helps connect AHA's work with members and the broader hospitality community.
RENEE SMITH
Coordinator of Education
[email protected]
Renee coordinates AHA's education programs, including ServSafe and ProStart. She brings deep experience in culinary and hospitality education, including leadership roles with the UA-Pulaski Technical College Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Institute.