Howsley, a San Antonio native and graduate of the University of the Incarnate Word, oversees operations at the historic hotel, from front desk and bookkeeping to housekeeping and maintenance, marketing and finance. She has a degree in business management and a minor in accounting. 

�It�s been a privilege to play a role in bringing back the shine to the Jewel of San Antonio,� said Howsley, who held the title of Miss Galaxy International 2005, and is San Antonio�s first international beauty queen. �I�m eager to work with our staff to introduce the revamped Fairmount to friends new and old.�

The century-old Fairmount has undergone a stunning transformation since San Antonio businessman Robert D. Tips, President and CEO of Mission Park Funeral Chapel and Cemeteries, purchased the 37-room property in 2004. A newly renovated restaurant, Sage at The Fairmount, has drawn rave reviews from food critics and patrons alike for its Mediterranean-style Italian cuisine. 

Every room at the hotel, a member of the Historic Hotels of America, has been individually renovated with an eye toward tasteful European style and luxury. Each room has a different theme and color scheme, covered with hundreds of yards of fine European trim featuring details such as tassels or bouillon fringe. The luxury suites also have elegant canopies, bed dressing and custom paint in every room.

�Kristin has familiarized herself with all aspects of the hotel from top to bottom,� Tips said. �She�s been fearless in taking on all sorts of jobs as she helped bring home the renovation. That certainly impressed me, and I believe others will be impressed as they see how she takes this beautiful property to the next level.�

The Fairmount is a boutique luxury hotel made up of 37 salons and suites located steps from San Antonio's famed River Walk, across from HemisFair Plaza.  The Fairmount�s new owner, Robert D. Tips, is investing in a meticulous renovation to restore the grandeur of this historic treasure built in 1906. Elegantly themed suites, a breathtakingly beautiful courtyard and hand-picked antiques will accentuate an Old World European style, making every stay at The Fairmount a one-of-a-kind experience.  The Fairmount will offer sneak peeks as the renovation progresses.