Honorary Board Members

David Cárdenas

Dean, William F. Harrah College of Hospitality

David A. Cárdenas joined UNLV as the new dean of the William F. Harrah College of Hospitality on March 1, 2024. He brings extensive hospitality expertise from his roles at the University of South Carolina (USC), including interim dean and associate dean of academic programs for the College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sports Management (HRSM). At USC, Cárdenas oversaw curriculum development, international programs, student services, and corporate engagement, showcasing his leadership in hospitality education. His research focuses on sustainable development, tourism education, and community-based tourism planning, both in the U.S. and internationally.

Cárdenas has held visiting professor roles at institutions in China, Curaçao, Aruba, and Ecuador, highlighting his global hospitality perspective. He has also developed strategic international partnerships in countries including Vietnam, South Korea, Qatar, Spain, and Peru. Cárdenas aims to connect with faculty, alumni, and industry leaders to ensure graduates are well-prepared to meet evolving industry needs.

UNLV leaders believe his experience will elevate the Harrah College of Hospitality to new heights. Cárdenas holds a Ph.D. in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management from North Carolina State University.

Martha Morales

VP & General Manager at Valley Forge Casino Resort, Boyd Gaming

Martha is an HCF Alum and first student to become part of the HCF board.

Las Vegas raised, Ms. Morales, graduated from Rancho High School and from the University of Nevada Las Vegas with a degree in hospitality management. Ms. Morales also holds a Master in Business from the University of Southern California. Ms. Morales began her career in the hospitality industry at the age of 16 and utilized both her education and experience to develop her skills. She has worked at Circus Circus Hotel and Casino, Hilton Las Vegas, Arizona Charlies Decatur, Stratosphere Hotel, Caesars Palace, Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace and recently joined Boyd Gaming as the Assistant General Manager at the Orleans Hotel and Casino.

Ms. Morales joined Hospitality Charitable Foundation as a board member to combine her passion for empowering young women and leading others with her knowledge of the hospitality industry. Ms. Morales enjoys hiking, dancing, and participating in community outreach events. Ms. Morales is the proud mother of Jasmin.

Sean DiCicco

Corporate Vice President of Food and Beverage, Invited Clubs

Mr. DiCicco joined HCF in 2011 with the mission to positively impact the lives of deserving students in Las Vegas. His commitment and leadership quickly became evident, leading to his tenure as Vice President of HCF from 2013 to 2014, and subsequently as President for the 2015-2018 terms. He is currently an HCF Honorary Board Member, continuing to support the organization's mission and initiatives.

During his time with HCF, Mr. DiCicco played a crucial role in developing the organization into the impactful entity it is today. His efforts have significantly contributed to the foundation's success, and he continues to be a major influence within the organization.

He currently serves as the Senior Vice President of Food and Beverage for Invited Clubs, bringing his extensive expertise to one of the leading private club companies in the country.

Mr. DiCicco is a distinguished graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, where he earned dean’s list honors. Outside of his professional achievements, Sean is an adventure enthusiast and keeps fit with various sports. He enjoys traveling the world with his wife, Audrey, and is a proud father to three beautiful daughters.

Stowe Shoemaker PhD