FGCU Alumna Kara dePool Takes GM Helm at West Palm Beach's Nora Hotel

Announced August 6, 2026, FGCU 360 reports that alumna Kara dePool has secured the General Manager position at the upcoming Nora Hotel in West Palm Beach. The 201-room luxury property is slated to open later this year in the city's Nora District.

DePool's professional ascent, according to FGCU 360, began with an admission to FGCU via a summer program for provisionally accepted students, navigating what she described as a less-than-stellar SAT score. Her career trajectory saw significant development through multiple internships and persisted through the challenges of a global pandemic.

FGCU 360 quotes dePool, stating, "FGCU took a chance on me, believed in my potential and gave me the opportunity to prove myself." She credits the university's summer bridge program for her early adjustment and confidence building, asserting that her choice of FGCU was based on finding a place that prioritized potential over test scores.

According to dePool via FGCU 360, the School of Resort & Hospitality Management provided a rigorous education. She noted the small class sizes fostered an environment where professors knew students personally, challenging them daily and instilling a high level of accountability. This approach, she suggests, continues to influence her leadership style.

Professors at FGCU also imparted real-world industry insights, ensuring students understood the 'why' behind concepts, FGCU 360 reports dePool saying. The school's internship program was crucial, allowing her to apply classroom knowledge, build confidence, and establish a professional network.

Our take: DePool's appointment at a new luxury property underscores the value of hands-on experience and mentorship in hospitality education. Her story is a testament to the industry's focus on demonstrable skill and leadership potential, rather than solely academic metrics. This trajectory highlights a pipeline for emerging talent into the luxury hotel sector.