As Executive Director of the J.W. Marriott, Jr. Institute, Marc Brown leads the Institute’s strategy and vision, advancing efforts to redefine hospitality as a leadership mindset that extends across business, design, health, engineering, and other disciplines. With more than two decades of experience in hospitality operations, consulting, and higher education, Marc has built a career focused on connecting education with industry to prepare students for meaningful and rewarding careers.

Before joining the University of Utah, Marc served as a faculty member at Utah Valley University, where he developed multiple hospitality courses and launched the nationally recognized Wasatch Resort Management (WARM) program—a five-semester experiential learning initiative that partners students with luxury resorts in Park City. His commitment to student success and applied learning earned him awards for industry engagement and course design.

Today, through the J.W. Marriott, Jr. Institute, Marc continues to create innovative programs that engage students from all corners of campus, connecting them to the diverse opportunities within the hospitality industry and the broader experience economy.

Isabel Corpus serves as Programs Manager for the J.W. Marriott, Jr. Institute, where she designs, coordinates, and manages experiential learning programs that connect students with industry partners and real-world application. She is passionate about creating learning environments where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to grow both personally and professionally through hands-on experience.

Isabel holds two bachelor’s degrees in Business and in Tourism and Hospitality Management and is a 2024 graduate of the Wasatch Resort Management (WARM) program at Utah Valley University. During her time in WARM, she gained luxury hospitality experience as a Sales Coordinator at the Montage, Deer Valley, where she developed a strong foundation in operations, client relations, and event coordination. Having worked in both Mexico and the United States, Isabel brings a global perspective to her work and a deep appreciation for hospitality as both a profession and a leadership mindset. She is known for her collaborative approach, attention to detail, and commitment to student-centered programming.

Looking ahead, Isabel is excited to continue expanding experiential learning opportunities through the J.W. Marriott, Jr. Institute and supporting students as they explore the diverse pathways within hospitality and the experience economy. Inspired by travel and cultural exploration, she brings curiosity, creativity, and energy to her work, always focused on helping students turn meaningful experiences into lasting impact.

Star Neil serves as the Marketing Manager for the J.W. Marriott, Jr. Institute, where she leads the Institute’s communications and brand strategy through thoughtful storytelling and visual design. Her work is rooted in empathy for the student journey and a deep belief in the power of hospitality, soft-skill development, and real-world learning experiences to shape future leaders.

Star holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication with an emphasis in Multimedia Journalism from Weber State University, where she served as Graphic Design Editor for the student-run newspaper, The Signpost. In that role, she earned state and national recognition for her illustrative design work while leading creative teams under tight deadlines. Prior to her academic career, Star spent six years in sales and customer service management, where she developed a strong foundation in leadership, relationship-building, and anticipating client needs—skills that continue to inform her work today.

In addition to her professional roles, Star has owned and operated a small creative business, managing everything from product design to marketing and social media strategy. This entrepreneurial experience further shaped her approach to branding as both strategic and deeply human.

Looking ahead, Star is excited to continue growing the J.W. Marriott, Jr. Institute’s brand presence and telling the expansive story of hospitality education through authentic connection, visual storytelling, and student-centered impact.