LEWIS REED received a culinary arts degree from Santa Barbara City College, a bachelor of science degree in hotel and restaurant management from Cal Poly Pomona, a master's in hospitality administration from University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and a PhD in education administration from Washington State University. He has taught at Santa Barbara City College, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and Washington State University. His experience in the hospitality industry includes jobs as a waiter, a purchasing agent, a cook, a chef, a manager, and an owner, all of which contributes to his inside knowledge and appreciation of the industry. He currently owns two restaurants and is a franchisee of a national chain.