Education and Events
Program Details:
The mission of the Ohio Tourism Leadership Academy is to provide education, resources and networks needed to develop travel professionals for the state of Ohio. Throughout the course, participants network and learn alongside other tourism professionals within the class as well as guest speakers from around the state.
This program is perfectly tailored for those new to the travel industry, as well as for those wanting to dig deeper. Discover challenges and opportunities unique to the travel industry, and be inspired to execute your value and vision in your career.
Connect to peers in the industry who are currently leading the way, as they introduce you to industry issues and opportunities in such a way that solutions can be envisioned. Gain a basic understanding of the roles and responsibilities of becoming a leader in your organization, community and the state. Build a network of industry colleagues.
Class members have included those from attractions, museums, theme parks, DMOs, local government, state agencies, federal legislators, community development offices, restaurants, hotels and more.
Tuition for 2023:
Ohio Travel Association Members: $825
Non-Members: $900
What You Can Expect:
The program consists of six in-person sessions held in central Ohio, January through June 2023. Click the link above for dates and details.
- An elite and prestigious program built around pertinent topics you need to know
- Topics and education that you'll take with you into your career that you'll remember for years to come
- Mentoring and an instant network of professionals who want you to succeed
- Uncovering tourism inside and out
- Networking with peers and decision-makers in the tourism industry
If you have any questions about the program, please contact Melinda Huntley at mhuntley@ohiotravel.org.
2022 Graduates
Abby Rhodebeck, Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Alexa Alcaraz, Visit Grove City
Amanda Lloyd, Ashtabula Convention & Visitors Bureau
Bailey Simons, Hocking Hills Chamber of Commerce
Deann Bechtol, Miami County Visitors & Convention Bureau
Elizabeth Dekker, Experience Worthington
Greg Billing, Visit Darke County
Hannah Henthorne, Experience Columbus
Jamie Wheeler, Visitors Bureau of Highland County
Jackee Pugh, Belmont County Tourism Council
Joe Vargo, Quest Digital
Kara McIntire, Visit Coshocton
Katie Thompson, Visit Dublin Ohio
Mackenzie Toll, Shores & Islands Ohio
Marisa Stephens, Destination Seneca County
Megan Myers, Hocking Hills Tourism Association
Nathan Wilson, Pickaway County Visitors Bureau
Rachel Wright, Marcus Thomas
Rose Arthur, Hocking Hills Tourism Association
Samantha Whitworth, Holmes County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau
Sandra Hill, Hocking Hills Tourism Association
Trista Wright, Remarkable Lake County OH
Tyler Klopfer, Cedar Fair
