Alumnus President of Award-Winning Restaurant Group to Speak at UVA Wise’s 2026 Commencement
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise (UVA Wise) announced today that alumnus and Southwest Virginia native Tyler Roberts will be the keynote speaker for its 2026 Commencement. The ceremony will take place on May 9, beginning at 10 a.m., at the David J. Prior Convocation Center.
Roberts is the President and Chief Financial Officer of The Mina Group, a $350 million restaurant management company whose luxury dining offerings span across the U.S. in addition to Dubai and Riyadh. Founded by renowned chef, Michael Mina, the business develops and operates more than 35 restaurants under the flagship brands of Bourbon Steak, StripSteak, Orla and Aqua Bistecca.
As the senior executive responsible for strategy, performance and growth, Roberts oversees finance, operations, IT, capital strategy and investor relations. He sets and executes the company’s long-term vision with an eye toward market expansion, building resilient, successful teams, and a balance of adoption of developing technologies and embracing efficient best practices.
“I’m excited for this year’s UVA Wise graduates to hear from an alumnus with extensive experience in leadership and a flavor for opportunity,” says UVA Wise Chancellor Donna P. Henry. “Tyler has great perspective on how to put leadership into action that I know will further inspire our impressive class of 2026.”
Roberts has applied his UVA Wise education in various roles in financial planning and operations with VIVA Creative, the Jose Andres Group and Lidl. In May 2017, he was recognized as a Top Accounting Executive by Recognize D.C. After graduating from UVA Wise in 2007 with a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting, Roberts earned his Master of Business Administration degree from King University.
“I am most grateful to UVA Wise for teaching me how to learn,” Roberts says. “What I mean by that, is that the University set me up to think deeply, push the boundaries of what is possible, and take learning beyond the classroom. Between classes and building enduring friendships, I have lifelong memories of my time here.”
For his Commencement remarks, Roberts will draw not only on his experiences at the College, but also from working with Boards of Directors, investors, luxury hotel brands and alongside Chef Mina.
“You come to a restaurant for a great meal, but what makes you come back is how we make you feel. Everyone’s job in a restaurant is to make you feel like a main character, and I know that does make a difference,” Roberts says.
His advice to graduates will center around a tried and true value of the College and region where he grew up: trust, reputation, and success.
“I find myself in interesting rooms and am able to meet and spend time with really innovative and successful people who are titans of their industry,” Roberts says. “They’re successful not only because of intellect but because they’re also people who continued working when everyone else quits.”