Onboard since 2024
Originally from a Kansas City suburb, Keelia grew up dancing, singing, and playing sports—an energetic, well-rounded foundation that shines through in her work onboard. From ballerina to track runner, jazz dancer to soccer player, she’s always thrived in dynamic environments that require discipline, connection, and creativity. After attending Johnson & Wales University, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Sport, Entertainment, and Event Management, and even spent time in Switzerland studying at a finishing school—experiences that laid the groundwork for a polished, service-focused hospitality career.
Keelia’s early professional path took her to Denver, where she spent nearly a decade, first in the tech startup world at OrthoFi, working her way up to Revenue Cycle Manager overseeing financial operations for 250+ orthodontic practices. But the call for change—fueled by pandemic reflections, a milestone birthday, and a craving for new experiences—led her to yachting in 2023.
She completed her STCW and quickly found her footing in the industry with daywork, a summer stewardess role at a private estate in Bar Harbor, and positions aboard Perfect Lady, Leverage, and now M/Y Hannah. She holds an ENG1, PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certification, IYT RIB Master & Small Powerboat licenses, and has completed Superyacht Hospitality & Interiors training.
As Chief Stew, Keelia brings warmth, vibrance, and a deep desire to connect with guests. Her greatest strength is her ability to make people feel comfortable—blending intuition and attention to detail to create a truly personalized guest experience. “Whether guests are after adventure, luxury, or total relaxation,” she says, “I want them to leave thinking, that was the best week of my life—already dreaming of their return.”
While she’s cruised the Bahamas so far, Keelia is no stranger to international adventure. Her favorite destinations include Thailand, Dubai, and Italy—each unforgettable for their rich culture and cuisine. Outside of yachting, she’s happiest exploring new places, enjoying live music with friends, playing tennis or pickleball, or planning the next themed get-together.
With financial freedom as her initial motivator, Keelia is excited to see where the industry leads and dreams of one day owning her own business. Until then, she’s soaking up every new experience with her signature motto:
“Everything always works out for us.”
Because, as she reminds her friends (and herself), “Even when things go off course, the outcome is often exactly what we needed—if not better.”
