Taunya Holden
Taunya Holden is an experienced hospitality and public service professional currently serving as the Front Desk Manager at Sleep Inn. With a career spanning roles in both government and the private sector, she has developed strong skills in operations, customer service, and investigative work, consistently demonstrating dedication, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence.
Before transitioning into hospitality, Taunya gained extensive experience in public service, working as a Mobile Operations Officer with the Mountain Transit Authority, an Investigator with the Office of Inspector General, and an Economic Service Worker with the Department of Health and Human Resources. These roles allowed her to develop a keen understanding of operational management, regulatory compliance, and client-focused service, which she now applies to her work in the hospitality industry.
Taunya holds dual associate degrees from Mountain State University, earning an Associate of Arts in General Studies and an Associate of Science in Radiologic Technology/Science. Her educational background, combined with her professional experience, equips her with a versatile skill set that bridges both technical knowledge and interpersonal expertise. Taunya is passionate about helping people, fostering positive experiences, and continuously growing in her career.
• Mountain State University - AA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the hard work and dedication that have carried me to where I am today, especially as someone relatively new to the hospitality field. My career began in transportation and later transitioned into fraud investigation, which provided me with valuable skills and experience. Over time, I chose to pursue a career in hospitality—a field that brings me joy—and I am truly grateful for the path I’ve taken.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that you can succeed in any role as long as you stay the course and never give up. Perseverance and commitment, even in challenging situations, are key to growth and achievement.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is simple: believe in yourself and your abilities. With confidence, dedication, and perseverance, you can achieve greatness and make a meaningful impact in your career.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
As someone new to the hospitality industry, one of the biggest challenges I face is learning how to consistently meet the diverse needs and expectations of guests and colleagues. At the same time, this presents a tremendous opportunity to grow, develop strong problem-solving skills, and make a positive impact by creating memorable experiences for everyone I serve.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are perseverance, adaptability, and a commitment to making a positive impact. I have demonstrated this through my dedication in college, where I double-majored, and by thriving across multiple career fields. Equally important is bringing the same energy and purpose to my personal life—my husband and I actively participate in initiatives like the Iron Shield, supporting local charities such as Toys for Tots, which allows me to contribute to my community while maintaining balance at home.