University’s endowed chair to support tourism research

April 24, 2006
http://www.extension.umn.edu/News

Minnesota’s tourism industry will get an infusion of relevant research supported by the Carlson Chair for Travel, Tourism and Hospitality at the University of Minnesota Tourism Center. For the first time, the center asked for proposals on research and education for the tourism industry.

More than one-half of the tourism proposals received were funded. Funded projects focus on better understanding tourism related to meetings and events, American Indians, dog-powered events; and in northwestern Minnesota.

A panel of industry experts reviewed proposals and made recommendations to Tourism Center director Ingrid Schneider. Schneider was impressed with the proposal quality and breadth. “Certainly there is a diversity of needs within the tourism industry—we are thrilled to work with these groups and address issues important to Minnesota’s tourism industry,” she said.

Hank Todd, vice president of Carlson Destination Marketing Services, part of Minneapolis-based Carlson Companies, serves on the Tourism Center Advisory Committee.

“The travel, tourism and hospitality industry contributes immensely to our global economy, and research helps us provide the high-quality services and experiences our customers are looking for,” Todd said. “Our company is proud to sponsor the Carlson Chair for Travel because we will be able to see the results of research right here in Minnesota. Our industry thrives on new ideas and relevant information to support them.”

The University’s Tourism Center serves as a source for tourism research and education in the state and beyond. Expected outcomes from this work include sustainable growth, development and return on investment (ROI) for tourism – a leading industry in Minnesota and the world. In Minnesota, tourism generates $9.2 billion dollars in gross receipts/sales and employs more than 230,000.

The Tourism Center (www.tourism.umn.edu) is a collaboration between the University of Minnesota Extension Service and College of Natural Resources.

# # #
Web, regional directors, statewide list
Writer: Ingrid Schneider (612) 624-2250, ingridss@umn.edu
Editor: Jack Sperbeck (612) 625-1794, sperb001@umn.edu