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: $875
Non-Members: $950
What You Can Expect:
The program consists of six in-person sessions held in central Ohio, January through June 2024. 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.
2023 Graduates
Tiffany Kirkbride, Visit Grove City
Truda Shinker, Ohio History Connection
Terri Herron, Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB
Jennifer Downey, Ashtabula County CVB
Christine Best, Visit Perrysburg
Dana Jaworski, Commonwealth Hotels - Fairfield Inn and Suites
Scott Hutchinson, Warren County CVB
Laura Barfield, Visit Cincy
Liz Merriell, Athens County VB
Teresa Breckenridge, Visit Grove City
Chandler Grooms, Pike County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism
Whitney May, Longs Retreat Family Resort
Chelsa Slutz, Carroll County Chamber of Commerce
Marissa Muniz-Kolhoff, Wood County History Museum
Tielle Miller, Carroll County CVB
Delaney Fields, Miami County VCB
Joel Prince, Athens County VB
Karen Hopkinson, Great Lakes Publishing
Taylor Sigler, Holmes County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau
Kat Patterson, Visit BG Ohio
Karly Dwenger, Travel Butler County
Leslianne Lake, Visit Canton
Brandy Gleason, Gleason Family Adventure
Katie Montz, Lake County Ohio Visitors Bureau
Sarah Crock, Experience Columbus
Polly Van Dyke, Ohio History Connection
