04/06/2026

How to Build a Hospitality Culture in Your Community & Why You Should

Speaker: David Koelling

Title: How to Build a Hospitality Culture in Your Community and Why You Should

Bio: David, founder of Strategic Dining Services in 2013, built a dining and hospitality business, training and resources to strengthen in-house personnel and enhance the quality of the dining experience and service focused on supporting self-operated dining programs in senior living by providing hands-on support.

Previously, David transformed the fine-dining scene in the dinner cruise industry as the COO of Odyssey Cruises in major cities like Chicago, Boston, and Washington D.C. He's consulted for prestigious venues, including Michael Jordan Golf Centers and Jack Nicklaus’ Wynstone Country Club, and founded acclaimed restaurants like The Greenery and Biloxi Grill.

His leadership as VP of Corporate Services for Senior Lifestyle Corporation earned industry recognition, including the 2011 Industry Innovator Award from the International Council on Active Aging and the Best of the Best 2012 Award from the Assisted Living Federation of America.

With a BA from Michigan State University, David's entrepreneurial spirit has been acknowledged with nominations for Inc. Magazine’s Entrepreneur of the Year award, and he's been honored by Illinois with the Partner in Eldercare award for his dedication to providing meals for seniors in need.

Co-Speaker: Phillip Dopson

Title: How to Build a Hospitality Culture in Your Community and Why You Should

Bio: Phillip Dopson serves as the President of The Hub Design Innovation & Hospitality Services, LLC. With a rich background in design and retail configuration, Phillip brings invaluable expertise to curate strategies and create modern, diversified environments that set the community's brand apart.

Drawing on the latest in design, innovation, branding, technology, and data, Phillip elevates communities to new heights. His tactical approach to integrating an exceptional consumer experience is built on a deep understanding of resident preferences and buying habits, enabling him to curate engaging, delightful experiences and solutions.

As the leader of The HUB, a specialized retail and design brand, Phillip and his team transform data into valuable business intelligence. By identifying patterns and correlations, they provide the insights necessary to make well-informed decisions. Always keeping an eye on the aspirations of active aging consumers, Phillip ensures that the needs of today's residents are met while proactively anticipating the demands of tomorrow's residents.

He received his degree from Texas Tech University, Hotel & Restaurant Management, 1994.