Tarah Schroeder

As a University of Denver MBA alumna with more than twenty years of experience in hospitality, foodservice design, sustainability and executive leadership, Tarah is committed to being an adjunct faculty member at the Fritz Knoebel School of Hospitality Management.

Tarah currently serves as the managing principal and COO of Ricca Design Studios, where she oversees strategic direction, operations, financial performance, and the successful delivery of hospitality projects across the U.S. and internationally. In this role, she leads cross-functional teams, develops new operational standards, opens new international operations and guides the firm. Tarah has an ability to communicate complex concepts clearly, mentor emerging professionals, and connect day-to-day decisions to long-term strategic outcomes—skills that translate directly to the classroom.

Teaching and curriculum development have long been central to Tarah’s professional identity. As an adjunct professor at Arapahoe Community College, she designed and delivered Sustainable Interior Design coursework, developed accessible learning materials, and supported diverse learners through individualized feedback and real-world application. In addition, she frequently teaches at national and international industry conferences on topics such as sustainable foodservice design, leadership development, and effective design communication, including sessions for NACUFS, FED, FCSI, and LATAM audiences.

Her background uniquely positions her to help students bridge theory with practice. Tarah brings a deep expertise in sustainable design, commercial kitchen planning, project management, stakeholder engagement and hospitality operations to the Facility Layout and Design course. She is committed to mentorship and student growth. She strives to create a learning environment that is dynamic, inclusive, and grounded in the real challenges and opportunities shaping today’s hospitality industry.

Education

BA in International Relations & BA in Sustainability
University of Southern California
Graduated 2002

MBA
University of Denver, Daniels College of Business
Graduated 2014

FCSI Professional—Foodservice Consultants Society International, since 2018
LEED AP—US Green Building Council, since 2010

In her free time, she plays guitar, paddleboards, snowboards and camps with her fifth-grade twins.