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Projects
Florida Department of Environmental Protection
Conducted an extensive marketing study and economic spending analysis of
attendees at the annual Stephen Foster State Park Folk Festival.
Analysis of both resident and visitor perceptions to environmental quality
issues.
Comprehensive market analysis and economic impact of four Florida springs.
Southwest Airlines Gasparilla PirateFest
Tampa, Florida
Developed a market profile of attendees and their economic impact upon the
community due to festival participation of an estimated 700,000 attendees.
Suwannee River Water Management District Market analysis and economic impact of
visitors to an eight county region encompassing the Suwannee River Area. Westin
Innisbrook Resort Conducted a sales program designed to promote golf and club
membership for this exclusive resort property.
Super Bowl XXXV
Assisted with functions for over 5,000 media and NFL representatives.
Outback Bowl
Conducted the economic impact, visitor estimates, and market profiles for this
major annual event.
Broward, Dade, Monroe , Palm Beach Counties
Economic Value and Impact of Natural and Artificial Reefs in Southeast Florida
.
Florida Department of Environmental Protection
Completed a co-authored, 400 page report entitled “Economic Impact and
Importance of Artificial Reefs in Northwest Florida”. This study involved the
development of a data collection system throughout a five county region of
Florida. The study examined marketing and economic characteristics of
non-resident boaters, resident boaters and commercial fisherman to evaluate
direct and indirect economic impact attributed to artificial reefs.
Florida Department of Parks
Completed a study of “Olustee Battlefield: 27 th Annual Reinactment Event” This
study developed attendee profiles in order to assist the Florida Department of
Parks with their strategic planning of statewide festivals and special events
funding.
Tampa Bay Convention and Visitors Association
Completed market research on selected major events including: New Years Day
Outback Bowl, National Hockey League All Star Game, NCAA Final Four Tournament,
New York Yankees Spring Training and the Florida State Fair.
Amelia Island Tourist Development Council
Conducted a series of three advertising conversion studies on three separate
promotional campaigns to determine the effectiveness of advertising placed in
Southern Living Magazine, Conde Naste Travel, Bon Appetite, Gourmet Magazine,
and Readers Digest. Advertising analyses were compared over three seasons of
the year (winter, spring and summer) to determine seasonal and geographical
differences.
American Hotel Foundation
Completed “A Model to Develop A Visitor Assurance Program for Commercial
Lodging Guests”. This comprehensive project detailed steps to be taken by
commercial lodging owners and operators to maximize guest safety in the event
of natural disasters such as hurricanes.
Tallahassee/Leon County Convention and Visitors
Bureau and Tourism Development Council
Developed the first visitor tracking study for Florida ’s Capital Region.
Provide quarterly and annual market segmentation information, visitor and
economic impact estimates.
Florida Department of Environmental Protection Division of Marine
Fisheries Management
Developed a pretest to determine market profiles and economic impact of
visitors and residents using artificial reefs in a five county region along the
Florida Panhandle
Gasparilla PirateFest
Tampa , Florida
Developed a market profile of attendees and their economic impact upon the
community due to festival participation of an estimated 500,000 attendees.
Government of St. Martin , Netherland Antilles
Developed and conducted a tourism and hospitality educational program for the
St. Martin Office of Tourism’s Caribbean Conference.
Tampa/Hillsborough Convention and Visitors Tampa/Hillsborough Tourism
Development Council; Tampa , Florida .
Developed and administered a total market visitor study involving the
development of monthly and quarterly visitor profiles, visitor estimates, and
estimated economic impact of fourteen specific pleasure travel segments.
Information is generated from personal interviews with visitors and is used to
provide strategic vision relating to area tourism development and promotions
issues.
South Walton Tourist Development Council,
Santa Rosa Beach , Florida .
Conducted two readership validation surveysto determine efficiency rates for
fulfillment services provided to the tourist development council.
SANDALS Superclubs and Resorts,
Kingston , Jamaica .
Developed and conducted a customized course entitled, “International Trends in
Tourism Management,” Presented to 35 mid-level managers from all SANDALS resort
properties.
Tampa/Hillsborough Convention and Visitors Association, Tampa/Hillsborough
County Tourism Development Council; Tampa , Florida .
Conducted Room-Night Generation Analyses, Economic Impact, Market Profiles, and
Visitor Estimates for individuals attending major events including:
New Years Day Outback Bowl
35th Annual Winter Equestrian Festival
Florida State Fair
Major League Baseball Spring Training
Florida College Football Classic
Gasparilla Event
Ybor City Night Parade
Guavaween Event
NCAA Final Four ()
NHL All Star Game ()
Brandon Baloon classic
Ruskin Tomato Festival
Florida Environmental Education Foundation
Recipient of a grant to develop a curriculum model entitled "Ecotourism and the
Florida Environment". Curriculum will be developed in order to implement
Florida-specific sustainable tourism concepts and case studies in all public
schools and private sector workplaces. This two-phased grant also involved
workshops for the purpose of training educators and trainers in the area of
ecotourism and sustainable tourism.
Sandestin Resort, Seaside , Abbott Resorts, Marriott’s Bay Point Resort, Ponte
Vedra Resorts, Marriott Sawgrass Resort, Marriott Resort, Hilton Head Island.
Developed and directed a 12-semester hour curriculum of study entitled: “Resort
and Condominium Management”. Students lived, worked, and studied in these
resort areas for four months each year. Curriculum prepared students for
careers in resort and condominium management. Approximately 200 students from
various universities in the U.S. and Canada completed this concentration, known
as a “minor” at most universities.
South Walton Tourist Development Council, Santa Rosa Beach , Florida .
Designed and conducted a funded study entitled, "Grayton Beach Fine Arts
Festival: Visitor Profile"
South Walton Tourist Development Council, Santa Rosa Beach , Florida .
Developed and conducted a funded study entitled " Seaside , Florida Jazzfest
Visitor Profile".
Caribbean Hotel Association
Developed and conducted a week-long executive development program for Caribbean
industry professionals entitled "Tourism Marketing for Tourism
Professionals".Program was held in Tallahassee , Florida and funded by the CHA.
Abbott Realty and Resorts Destin , Florida .
Conducted a funded "Service Quality Issues" seminar for 100 resort operations
personnel.
Tampa/Hillsborough Convention & Visitors Association
Conducted an Economic Impact and Market Analysis of Visitors to Tampa during .
Results were reported by quarter and information was used to identify market
potential for domestic and international promotions.
IMS/ADFIRST Austin , Texas . Developed information on preferences U.S.
pleasure travelers have for selecting Caribbean destinations for vacations.
Information was used to provide this advertising company a basis for developing
promotions strategies to Cancun , Mexico.
International Center for Hospitality Research and Development
Coordinated all related research activities involving the Tourism and
Hospitality industry.
St. Johns County , Florida
Tourism Development Council conducted a "Training-the-Trainer" program for
tourism and hospitality leaders. (June)
Callaway Gardens Resort and Conference Center Pine Mountain , Georgia
Developed and administered a new program of study entitled "Resort Management
and the Environment". This program addresses resort operations with an emphasis
upon environmental concerns. The program included four courses that are
completed on site by ten to fifteen students per semester. Students also gained
work experience as resort employees and were rotated systematically through
various departments during the semester. This was the first program of its type
offered by a four year hospitality management program in the U.S.A.
Government of Costa Rica San Jose, Costa Rica
Consulted with Minister of Tourism on the Development of Training Programs in
Hospitality and Tourism.
Government of Venezuela Caracas, Venezuela.
Conducted a five day "Strategic Marketing" seminar to fifty Travel and Tourism
leaders.
Government of Argentina Buenos Aires , Argentina
Consulted with Economic Development Representatives on the Development of key
markets for tourism and trade.
Government of Aruba Netherlands Antilles
Conducted a major marketing study on the country's image and attractiveness as
a convention destination. Specifically, meeting planners representing
corporate, association and incentive travel market segments were identified in
North American locations and surveyed to accomplish the objectives of the
research project. This study led to the development of Aruba 's strategy for
economic growth in this market of the tourism industry.
Government of Costa Rica San Jose , Costa Rica
Consulted for the Government of Costa Rica to determine the direction needed
for tourism development as a viable means of economic growth. Examined the
overall infrastructure of the country including attractions, lodging
facilities, restaurants, natural resources, recreation options, transportation
facilities, and the development of education/ training programs.
United Nations, U.N. Development Program Government of Barbados , West Indies
Consulted for the Government of Barbados to determine the feasibility of
developing and competing for the conventions and meetings market.
United Nations, U.N. Development Program
Government of Aruba , Netherlands Antilles
Conducted a pre-feasibility study for the proposed development of a national
convention center for the Government of Aruba, Netherlands Antilles . The
project involved a comprehensive analysis of the country's potential to develop
a market and attract international corporate and association meetings. The
evaluation included an assessment of the country's existing and proposed
tourism infrastructure including natural and man-made resources such as hotels,
restaurants, attractions, transportation, culture, and overall environment. A
competitive analysis was also provided.
Tallahassee Museum of Natural History and Science
Tallahassee , Florida
Developed and conducted an economic impact analysis and visitor profile study
for this attraction. Over 1500 visitors were interviewed on-site to obtain
necessary information related to a special three-month exhibit on display at
the museum during the summer. Expenditure data, level of visitor satisfaction,
location of residence and media awareness represented information collected.
United States Army, Fort Jackson
Columbia , South Carolina
Developed and conducted an intensive review of all food, beverage, and
recreational operations on one of the largest military training bases in the
United States . The project evaluated service delivery systems for seven clubs,
dining areas, golf courses, and bowling centers. Personnel authorized to
utilize these services included commissioned officers, non-commissioned
officers, and retired personnel were surveyed by mail to determine guest
attitudes related to satisfaction with all facilities and services administered
by the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Division.
The National Audubon Society, Francis Beidler Forest
Harleyville , South Carolina
Developed a questionnaire and tracking system used to monitor visitors with
respect to satisfaction with the on-site experience. Surveys were administered
to one member of each visiting party by forest employees. Data were analyzed
each quarter to identify (1) market segments for future advertising and
marketing purposes and (2) benefits expected and received by visitors in an
effort to improve the delivery of services to visitors.
Institute for Tourism Research
Department of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Administration University of South
Carolina , Columbia , South Carolina .
Responsible for obtaining and coordinating university tourism-related research
grants and contracts. Chaired Steering Committee and Advisory Board meetings.
Coordinated seminars, workshops and conferences related to tourism and travel.
Virgin Grand Hotel
St. John , U.S. Virgin Islands
Assisted in the administration of a hospitality training program for 100
potential employees. The program involved the development of video tapes that
addressed key areas of hotel operations including housekeeping, front desk
operations, food & beverage preparation, guest relations.
Hilton Head Island Chamber of Commerce
Developed and conducted a funded Highway and Airport Visitor tracking survey
for the Hilton Head Island Chamber of Commerce. The study was designed to
collect and analyze visitor perceptions and images, overall level of
satisfaction with the on-site experience, expenditure data, trip purpose, and
willingness to return. The duration of the project was one year, with
information compiled on a quarterly/seasonal basis. This was the first study of
its kind designated specifically for a South Carolina destination area which
was funded by public dollars.
Greater Columbia , South Carolina Convention & Visitors Bureau Tourism
Marketing Survey
Developed and conducted a funded research project designed to explore and
analyze four specific visitor markets to the Greater Columbia, South Carolina
area, including: A. Group Tour Operators, B. Professional Meeting Planners, C.
Overnight Visitors D. Individuals Requesting Travel Information prior to
visiting the area. The duration of the project was one year with information
compiled on a quarterly/seasonal basis. This was the first study of its kind
designed to assist the Greater Columbia Convention and Visitors Bureau's
efforts with understanding their travel markets.
York County, South Carolina Visitor and Convention Bureau
Tourism Marketing Survey
Developed and conducted a funded research project designed to explore and
analyze three specific visitor markets to the York County, South Carolina area
including: A. Group Tour Operators B. Overnight Visitors C. Business Travelers
The duration of the project was one year, with information compiled on a
quarterly/seasonal basis.
Bahamas Ministry of Education and Tourism
Developed a hospitality needs assessment and training program for employees of
tourism-related facilities and services. This was one component of a $250,000
grant conducted by the University of South Carolina for the Bahamas Ministry of
Education and Tourism.
Chattanooga , Tennessee Arts and Education Council
Tivoli Theatre Program Preference Market Study
Conducted an area-wide analysis of preferences for future program options to be
scheduled at a newly renovated historic theatre. Over six thousand Chattanooga
area residents were surveyed to determine their musical and entertainment
preferences and to predict their likelihood of attending such events. Results
identified preferences of user groups according to area of residence, income,
gender, race, education and prior level of attendance at programs. Information
was used to identify the most profitable and desirable forms of programs to be
offered by the local Arts and Education Council.
Goodwill Plantation Resort
Developed a resort and conference center master plan for Goodwill Plantation,
Richland County , South Carolina This plan included the development of
approximately 450 acres of land currently listed in the National Registry of
Historic Places. This represents a portion of a 3,000 acre tract founded in
1701 as the northernmost colonial rice plantation in the state. The master plan
included lodging, dining, recreational and shopping facilities.
York County Visitor and Convention Bureau
Conducted a tourism study of visitors to York County and the Rock Hill , South
Carolina area. Results were used to develop advertising and marketing
strategies for the York County Visitors and Convention Bureau.
Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
Conducted a tourism marketing study of visitors to Myrtle Beach , South
Carolina to explore attitudes and perceptions of timesharing.
Columbia Action Council
Columbia , South Carolina
Conducted a visitor profile study and economic impact analysis of the Mayfest
Event, Columbia , South Carolina .
Aiken , South Carolina Hospitality Association
Developed a survey instrument to assess the need for hospitality training
programs, seminars, and workshops in Aiken , South Carolina . Conducted a study
of hotel marketing directors located in the South. The study examined the level
of importance various types of market research had to professional lodging
industry conference and meeting planners.
Columbia Hotel & Motel Association
Developed a system for the collection of hotel and motel occupancy data.
Developed a computer system for monitoring and reporting data. Developed a
system for collecting and analyzing longitudinal data in order to allow for
comparison over extended periods of time. Developed and conducted a survey
entitled "Benefits Sought by Blue Ridge Parkway Summer Visitors." Developed and
coordinated a study with the S.C. Council of Governments to pretest an
instrument designed to determine the profiles of tourists visiting the
Beaufort-Hilton Head, South Carolina areas during the Fall season. This study
was intended to be used as a pilot study that would eventually collect data for
all seasons of the year for this major tourism destination area.
Jamaica Tourist Board
Developed a hospitality training manual for the Jamaica Tourist Board,
Department of Human Resources Development and Training. The manual focused upon
attractions management for the entire country's natural and man-made
attractions. This was one part of a $100,000 contract that included the
development of 17 training manuals.
Ski Beech Resort
Conducted a recreational feasibility study of a proposed tourist-related
international village for a major ski resort in western North Carolina .
Conducted a study entitled "Winter Tourists and Their Perceptions of Ski School
Programs at Selected North Carolina Ski Areas."
Developed and pre-tested a survey instrument for a tourism study entitled:
"Benefits Sought from the Cross-County Ski Experience by Blue Ridge Parkway
Winter Visitors." Conducted research related to the psychographics and
socio-demographics of tour group vacationers visiting North Carolina.
Ski Beech Resort
Conducted two major tourism marketing studies for Ski Beech Resort during the
and ski seasons. These marketing studies were funded grants and explored
variables including: skier motives, benefits sought, psychographic profiles,
socio-demographics, accommodations/restaurant preferences, and willingness to
pay selected lift ticket prices. These studies involved the daily supervision
of interview teams and included over 1,400 skier interviews.
North Carolina Division of Tourism
Developed and pre-tested a questionnaire for a study entitled "Tourist
Perceptions of the New River Float Trip Experience".
Tourism Extension Specialist, Texas Agricultural Extension Service, Texas A
& M University
Conducted research related to the areas of tourism, recreation, and community
development. Developed and administered questionnaires for state and regional
tourism-related research projects; developed research methodology for tourism
projects; developed computer programs for data analysis of all projects.
Developed training programs for tourism and recreation administrators
including: Festivals, Fairs and Special Events Seminars; Seminar in
Questionnaire Development and Analysis; The Executive Development Program for
Recreation and Parks Professionals; Park Planning and Design Workshop.
Research Graduate Assistantship, Department of Recreation and Resource
Development, Texas A & M University
Worked with the Sea Grant College on a statewide boating study for the State of
Texas . Responsible for hiring, survey development, data collection, coding
data, entering data on computers, statistical analysis of results.
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