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Eight students from across Northeast Tennessee recently completed the Hospitality & Tourism Certificate program offered in partnership with East Tennessee State University’s Office of Professional Development and the Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association. This certification was the 2022 recipient of the Association for Continuing Higher Education South Award. The first of its kind in the region, the program has grown over the last six years to include an alumni network of nearly 70 graduates.

The students participated in classes held at Hands On! Discovery Center and Gray Fossil Site, hearing from more than 30 nationally recognized professionals in the industry, as well as representatives from city and county tourism departments and Main Street programs.

“Tourism is a major economic driver for our region, with visitors spending $867 million annually,” said Alicia Phelps, executive director of the Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association. “By investing in workforce development through education and training, we can further strengthen the hospitality and tourism sectors. We are thrilled to continue our partnership with ETSU and offer this valuable certification program. Our region boasts a wealth of expertise and renowned institutions, and this program provides unique opportunities for participants to learn from industry leaders and gain hands-on experience.”

2024 Northeast Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Certification Graduates:

• Taran Christiansen of Johnson City
• Katherine Hackler of Greeneville
• Paul Harris of Jonesborough
• Amber Howard of Bristol, Tenn.
• Kelly Johnson of Johnson City
• Avery Lewis of Greeneville
• Angela White of Mt. Carmel
• Krissy Worth of Johnson City

Session II Completion, Continuing Studies:

• Michael Lawton of Clarksville

The Hospitality & Tourism Certificate will be offered again in August 2025, with enrollment beginning in the spring. The certificate program is designed for those interested in expanding their skills and knowledge for personal and professional development, including tourism and hospitality professionals, graduate students, and others seeking to enhance their expertise in areas such as management, public relations, current technology, and social trends.

The program prepares graduates for entry or advanced management positions in culinary, food and beverage, lodging, attractions, and tourism-related industries. Students gain insights into regional and international facets of the hospitality and tourism industry, with topics ranging from marketing, financial management, safety, strategic planning, and employee management in the local billion-dollar tourism industry. A strong emphasis is placed on applied skills, with students having access to industry leaders, as well as experienced faculty and staff from East Tennessee State University.

For more information, including cost and enrollment details, visit NortheastTennessee.org/HTC or call 423-439-8084.