University policy requires each student to understand graduation requirements and make normal progress toward graduation. You can check progress toward your degree by using the MSU Student Information System.
Due to the size of our student population and other leadership roles they coordinate for The School, our advisor’s time is limited. When you contact our advisors, please have your questions well organized so that your time with the advisor can be used effectively.
Academic Advising: Jeff Yingling
Have a great winter break. Spring 2025 classes begin on Monday, January 13.
Career Advising: Troy Walker
Advisors
Jeff Yingling
- Associate Director of Undergraduate Studies
The School of Hospitality Business
Jeff Yingling earned his BBA in Business Management, Finance, and Real Estate from Kent State University and his MA in College and University Administration from Michigan State University.
In graduate school, he was Editor for the Graduate Student Journal of Student Affairs Administration, Teaching Assistant for the College of Education, and Judicial Board Advisor for the Office of Judicial Affairs.
Jeff served as Assistant Hall Director, Hall Director, and Complex Director for the Department of Residence Life at MSU. During this time, the Office of the Provost selected him to be a Leadership Fellow at MSU and Ohio State University selected him to be a Higher Education Researcher at Lancaster University in England.
He joined the Broad College as an Academic Advisor and then became Coordinator of Admissions, Scholarships, and Information Technology. He has been with The School of Hospitality Business for over a decade, first as Assistant Director and now as Associate Director of Undergraduate Studies.
Jeff has been recognized for his work at MSU with the Mortar Board Outstanding Faculty Award, Lewis Quality of Excellence Award, Broad Innovation, Commitment & Collaboration Award, Broad Most Profound Impact on Graduating Class Award, Hospitality Business Alumni Association Outstanding Staff Award, Honorary Membership in Eta Sigma Delta International Hospitality Management Society, and was selected to be the commencement speaker for The School of Hospitality Business Class of 2022.
Jeff was selected to be a Grand Marshall for the 2024 Kent State University Homecoming Parade in recognition of his contributions as an undergraduate student leader and to celebrate 100 years of undergraduate student government at Kent State University.
Troy Walker
- Director of Student and Industry Resource Center
The School of Hospitality Business
Troy Walker earned his BA in Hospitality Business as well as his MBA at Michigan State University.
Prior to his role in the Student and Industry Resource Center of The School of Hospitality Business, Troy managed the Front Office operations at the Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center before joining The School of Hospitality Business as the Business Manager in 2021. While the Business Manager, Troy completed the Executive MBA program through Broad College of Business.
Passionate about the hospitality industry and fostering meaningful connections, Troy is excited to leverage his experiences and relationships to contribute to the continued success of The School of Hospitality Business.
