Luke was raised in a small midwestern town. The community he grew up in instilled the meaning of a "hard days work" at a young age. Luke understood at a young age that what you work for in life does not get handed down - it's earned. Not only did Luke understand the value of a dollar and what it can buy, he also understood how to expand one's full potential to reach those valuable resources that ensure success. Luke also knew he did not have long-term goals of working for anyone but himself! At the age of 18, he left the only place he ever knew and moved to Miami for opportunities... and sunshine, of course!

In South Florida, Luke attended Johnson & Wales University - North Miami where he pursued a bachelors degree in Tourism & Hospitality Management. During his time at JWU, he was the President of the American Hotel & Lodging Association and the Club Managers Association of America; the Vice President of the Entertainment Management Organization; the Secretary of Eta Sigma Delta (honors society): and was also a Global Ambassador for the College of Hospitality Management. In each of these roles, Luke was being groomed to enter the workforce as an industry leader. Luke graduated from JWU Magna Cum Laude and was top in his class.

Luke shortly after joined Castle Group Management based in Plantation, FL as a Property Management Intern and later transitioning into a role in luxury high-rise management. Luke came into this position shortly after 558 litigation was settled and construction was already underway. Luke assisted in orchestrating a post-tension cable repair project among other communications that were associated with this project and other projects in conjunction with the repairs. He also assisted in the coordination of two lobby renovations in a luxury community.

Luke then lead the marketing and business development efforts for a multi-company portfolio out of West Palm Beach, FL. Luke oversaw community outreach efforts, marketing campaigns, client retention, and promotions.

With Luke's passion for the kava industry, appreciation for the root and all that nature has to offer, his multi-faceted experience coupled with his ambition and passion, he founded Sunbelt Kava Co in July of 2023 and brought on his business partner, Erich. Together, they are embarking on a new journey to not just build a kava bar or a brand - but to create a movement where all are accepted and have their place.

Come visit Sunbelt Kava Co when they open their doors in late 2023! Sunbelt Kava Co. - where the sun, sea and kava unite!