Robin MendezThe Hotel at Kirkwood Center is pleased to announce the appointment of Robin Mendez as its new Banquet Chef. Originally from Libertyville, Illinois, Robin Mendez is a graduate of the Kirkwood Community College Culinary Arts program. A valued team member since 2010, Mendez has been with The Hotel since its opening. Previously Lead Banquet Cook, Mendez says she takes pride in The Hotel’s innovative reputation. “The Hotel at Kirkwood has earned a great reputation for being innovative. I believe we have set the standard across the nation by building a ‘working’ educational center,” Mendez said. “I am proud to be a member of the Kirkwood teaching community and leading a talented staff in the banquet department.” "We are thrilled to have someone with Mendez’s experience lead our banquets team." said Lee Belfield, general manager of The Hotel at Kirkwood Center. “Her style and experience fit well with The Hotel's focus on exemplary guest experiences." Along with banquet chef duties, Mendez will serve as a faculty person for Kirkwood's world-class Hospitality Arts program. As the only luxury teaching hotel of its kind in the nation, The Hotel at Kirkwood Center prepares professionals to lead the global hospitality industry.