Past Events
Spring 2024
TSA Presents
Property Tour of Caesars Republic Scottsdale
On March 5, 2024 35 TSA members met and learned from the leadership team of the freshly opened Caesars Republic Scottsdale! A reception and Q&A was followed by a tour of this amazing property...best described as luxury but with FUN around every corner. This is the company's first non-gaming hotel outside of Vegas. TSA would like to thank GM Joe Iturri and team for receiving us so warmly. 2 CFEs
Spring 2024
TSA Presents
Property Tour of Caesars Republic Scottsdale
On March 5, 2024 35 TSA members met and learned from the leadership team of the freshly opened Caesars Republic Scottsdale! A reception and Q&A was followed by a tour of this amazing property...best described as luxury but with FUN around every corner. This is the company's first non-gaming hotel outside of Vegas. TSA would like to thank GM Joe Iturri and team for receiving us so warmly. 2 CFEs
Spring 2024
MereStone Event Production Site Tour
On Wed March 13, 12 TSA members discovered event excellence on an exclusive site tour to MereStone Event Productions – where innovation meets inspiration, and every detail is a masterpiece in the making! Special thanks to Rob Hill, CEO, and team for an amazing experience. 2 CFEs
Spring 2024
Donuts with Disney
On Tue Feb 20, 2024 TSA members and guests got to know our new regional Disney recruiter, Ashley Baldwin in a casual setting prior to her official presentation which took place in Erin Events class. Members also Aliyah Hernandez (aliyah.hernandez@disney.com), ASU's official Disney student rep. 1 CFE
Spring 2024
Tourism & Events Career Fair
On Thursday Feb 15, 2024 TSA members explored career possibilities with traditional and nontraditional tourism and events-related companies. TSA Officers welcomed attendees and supported students in learning the skills of personal selling and learning about where they fit into our vast industry.
Trailblazing Careers:
Pioneer Your Path in Public Service
On thu Feb 8, 2024 TSA members, faculty, and guests explored exciting opportunities with agencies like BLM, National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, and more. Attendees also got the inside scoop on mastering the federal application process! Sincerest appreciation for Brooke Nez Wheeler from Bureau of Land Management and ASU's Beverly Johnson for lending their insights.
1.5 CFEs/Virtual. Presentation resources here.
VIRTUAL HAPPY HOUR
On Thu Feb 1 , 20 TSA members connected bring together as both virtual and ground members, faculty, and alums for some social connecting, networking and fun activities.
ASU Alum Jaliela Malik showcased her mobile bar business Il Frigo Bar (IG: ilfrigo_bar) and demonstrated a cocktail and mocktail recipe for us to try. Recording
1 CFE
Ice Skating Social & ASU/Coyotes Hockey at Mullett Arena
On Sat Jan 27th , 25 TSA members and faculty supporters enjoyed a social including ice skating and a session with Rob Mattina, VP of Marketing for the Arizona Coyotes. Members went from never having skated to gliding smoothly along and new connections were made.
1 CFE
Wanderlusters, Vagabonders, & Gallivanters: Extended & Nontraditional Travel
On Wed Jan 24, Chaz Ferguson and Shyla Haven 'Shylaventures', as well as blogger Zane Jarecke, shared about HOW to do extended travel, and what CHALLENGES and JOYS are found on these types of extended journeys.
1.5 CFEs
Fall 2023
Study Abroad Luncheon
On Wednesday November 15, 2023 members of TSA and guests experienced all thing study abroad. Professors Goodman, Budruk, Goodman, and McWilliams presented about tourism-related study abroad opportunities, reps from the Global Education Office provided great tips, and Marlie Christopherson reported straight from her study abroad in Spain! 1 CFE
Fall 2023
Appreciate AZ -- The Path to Responsible Tourism
On Monday November 6, 2023 TSA members gathered to learn about the partnerships and programs of the Arizona Office of Tourism's Appreciate Arizona Campaign, Tread Lightly, and Leave No Trace--all designed to encourage responsible use of outdoor recreational spaces. The panel and attendees discussed the strategies, successes and the challenges in changing visitor behavior. 1.5 CFEs.
Many thanks to Andrew, Matt and Lena for their knowledge and insights.
Fall 2023
Fall Fireside--Travel Stories
On Friday October 27, 2023 TSA members and guests gathered by the fireside to roast hotdogs and s'mores as travel writer Mer Norwood (SheMovesPhoenix) taught them to craft a powerful travel story. Faculty and students then shared some humorous and meaningful travel stories.
1 CFE
TSA Officers and advisors with our guest speaker, Mer Norwood.
397066174_6897571406970453_3693917897795935200_n.mp4
Fall 2023
Día de los Muertos
Thirty TSA members and guests explored behind the scenes of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) at the Mesa Arts Center. The group learned how the traditions of a 3,000-year-old festival have been adapted into a modern event while still honoring tradition. Alum Jalyssa Gasmen, Director of Leisure Sales for Visit Mesa, served as host.
2.5 CFEs
TSA Officers Hayden, Zade, and Eleanor with ASU/SCRD alumni Jalyssa Gasman of Visit Mesa who served as our guide.
The temperature was hot but the music, dance, poetry, symbolism, art installations, local market and foods spoke to a joyous celebration we were glad to be part of.
Community Ofrenda (altar) to celebrate the lives of loved ones including photos and objects of significance.
Kat and Haley pose next to locally made 'calacas' statues
Co-advisor Claire enjoys pan de muerto and pan dulce
Fall 2023
Day Trip to Lake Pleasant, AZ
On Saturday September 30, 2023 TSA members enjoyed a day of exploration at Lake Pleasant Regional Park. They paddle-boarded and kayaked, learned from a ranger, park manager, and marina vendor, had lunch lakeside, and finished the day with a 'pleasant cruise' to learn about the area.
2.5 CFEs
20230930_133653_35D745.MP4Fall 2023
Tourism & Events Career Fair
On Thursday September 21st TSA members explored career possibilities with traditional and nontraditional tourism and events-related companies. TSA Officers welcomed attendees and supported students in learning the skills of personal selling and learning about where they fit into our vast industry.
PCMA Rise & Guide Event
On Tues Sept. 19, the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) welcomed future event pros across the Southwest to join Rise and Guide: Empowering Mentors, Inspiring Students, a virtual event by PCMA Southwest and Pacific Chapter. It was an inspiring evening of learning and networking!
32 TSA Members/Guests got the inside scoop from on dynamics of careers in the business events realm, the latest trends in the meetings and events industry and insights into successful event planning strategies. The special guests of the night were The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage's Kathy Holt, Global Cynergies' Amy Durocher, and Experience Scottsdale's Kimberly Hart.
TSA Presents
Mini Boot Camp: Tourism & Events Career Fair
Our very own official W.P. Carey Liaison Sharon Ducati prepared our members to maximize their time at our Fall 2023 career fair. Topics included starting the conversation with potential employers, sharing your personal narrative effectively, ensuring supporting documents are shined up (LinkedIn, QR Code to Resume, etc.) and professional dress strategies.
Mon Sep 18, 2023 from 6-7pm, 1 CFE
25 TSA Members/Guests got the inside scoop from Sharon on how to make the most of their career fair experience. Preparation and authenticity were key themes!
TSA Club Kick Off Event
Omni Style!
Fall 2023
On Fri Sep 1, 2023 new and returning TSA members enjoyed a site tour of the newly opened Omni Hotel Tempe! It was followed by a reception that included a new professional headshot compliments of photographer Jennifer Schutsky, a chance to network with the Omni leadership team and mingle with other TSA members. Omni provided wonderful appetizers while members mingled and networked the night away.
Hyatt Lunch & Learn
Spring 2023
On Wed April 19, 2023 TSA Members had the opportunity to interact with members of the executive committee at the Hyatt Regency Phoenix. The lunch included a rotation of managers from various departments and lively conversations with Sun Devils about the culture of care and opportunities with Hyatt.
Intern Talk
Spring 2023
On Mon April 17, 2023 TSA Members had the opportunity to talk to SCRD interns Madison Holeman and Kaili Fuller. Professors Erin Schneiderman and Korrie Brown Gernert outlined processes and tips for success in selecting and preparing for internships. Madison and Kaili emphasized the importance of necessary connections to land internships, what they experienced during theirs, then shared advice and answered questions for TSA members.
Cold Brews & Alumni News
Spring 2023
On Wed March 29, 2023 TSA Members, TSA Alumni (a few founding officers) and faculty gathered at PHX Beer Co. + Taproom. Attendees toured the facility and learned about the brewing process from brew master Brian and gained insight on the craft beer industry! Thank you PHX Beer Co. for hosting us!
TOURISM, EVENTS & PUBLIC SERVICE CAREER FAIR
Spring 2023
On Thu March 23, 2023 TSA members met employers such as Marriott, Accor, Hyatt, Colombia Hospitality, Bluegreen Vacations, Camelback Odyssey Travel, the Cities of Phoenix & Glendale, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley, the Peace Corps and many more!
SPRING TRAINING STADIUM TOUR & GAME
Spring 2023
On Sunday March 19, 2023 TSA members enjoyed a behind the scenes look at operations at Camelback Ranch Stadium. Attendees met executive level management, participated in a discussion and tour,
and then watched the
Oakland A's take on the LA Dodgers (A's won).
Behind the Scenes at
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
SPRING 2023
On Tuesday, March 14, 2023, TSA members got to meet Jason Gitkin (Community Outreach & Events Coordinator) and Nikki Donathan (Public Information Specialist) at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. After an introductory presentation, students boarded a shuttle and toured the inner workings of the airport including managing 200K+ Super Bowl LVII departures!
20230314_202800_EFC64B.MP4WHAT IS MEDICAL TOURISM?
SPRING 2023
On Feb 27, 2023 TSA members and guests had the chance to learn about the burgeoning sector of medical tourism. We learned what it is, what careers can be found within it, and what it is like to work within it in thanks to special guest Ryan Sendow from Travel Nurse Takeover/Aya Healthcare. Dr. Salman Majeed, who conducts research and writes on the topic, helped us understand its constructs and where it is happening and where it is headed.
We also discussed current trends, ethical issues, and challenges within medical tourism with our guest experts.
LODGING TRENDS WITH MIKE HARRISON SPRING 2023
On Wednesday February 22, 2023 TSA members had the opportunity to learn about the current status of traditional and nontraditional lodging. Mike, charismatic COO of CRR -- A Lifestyle Company, took attendees through traditional metrics like the STR Report, Adara, academic and third party research, property projects under construction and openings, and AirDNA. He also discussed metrics associated with the quickly growing sector of lodging--outdoor. KOA Camping & Glamping Report, RV Share, and Kampground provide metrics for outdoor lodging. Mike gave our members some great advice and reminded them to have an open mind about lodging futures.
SCRAMBLED LEGS -- SPRING 2023 SOCIAL
On Saturday January 28, 2023 returning and new TSA members gathered at Papago Park's Hole in the Rock Trail for brunch, mingling, and a hike on what turned out to be a PERFECT sunny day!
2022 Fall Movie Night
with Special Guest: We Carry Kevan
TSA members cozied up with some pizza and hot cocoa and cider to watch two inspiring travel documentaries by We Carry Kevan. Members also had the opportunity to meet Kevan Chandler and celebrate the successful earnings from the WCK Backpack Drive!
TSA Raised: $3,000+
This will support 5 individuals with the innovative WCK Travel Backpack!
Social Butterfly Award: Eleanor Brillo, Jeneca Kostad, Kylie Parker, Luis Pintor Zavaleta, Andreya Kelly, Jubilee Gutierrez, Sydnee Elliott
Mountains of Donations: Kylie Parker & Ellie DeBerry
TSA_WeCarryKevin_2022.mp4THE PHOCUSWRIGHT CONFERENCE
On Nov 14-17, 2022, Tourism Student Association members served as hospitality ambassadors at this conference. Students scanned registrants, staffed the information desk and had the chance to duck into a variety of amazing sessions.
TSA FALL FIRESIDE EVENT
INCLUSIVE & ACCESSIBLE TOURISM
TSA members, faculty, and guests learned from Alison Brooks, Director of Destination Experience & Advocacy of Visit Mesa and her special guests Brett Heising, Accessibility/DE&I Consultant, and Camilo Navarro, Co-Founder of Wheel the World for an interactive conversation about how physical and neurological diversity are championed in Mesa's citywide tourism planning along with these key partnerships.
While the event was digital, it was still a cozy conversation full of warmth and curiosity about how tourism leaders can champion universal design and other innovations, training, and planning. It is our challenge to ensure that every traveler can enjoy attractions with friends and family in a supportive, seamless, and welcoming way. There is so much work to be done, and so many opportunities in this space!
NASCAR Fundraiser - Fall 2022
Volunteers, a record number of us, once again helped out at Phoenix Raceway, interacted with guests, learned about large sporting event implementation, and raised for our TSA treasury. These funds will continue to allow our club to grow, achieve its objectives, and make quality networking and educational travel experience possible for our members.
LGBTQ+ Travel Insights
With Ed Salvato
Fall 2022
TSA members, faculty, and guests learned from Ed Salvato, Author, Editor, Educator, and Thought Leader about how tourism stakeholders can support inclusive tourism for the robust LGBTQ+ travel market with crucial challenges to address.
Learn more about Ed Salvato and his contributions to LGBTQ+ travel...
Handbook of LGBT Tourism and Hospitality: A Guide for Business Practice by Jeff Guaracino and El Salvato (2017)
Open to All: Appealing to Today’s Diverse LGBTQ Traveler
Ed Salvato (Connect Travel’s THRIVE Summit)
What TSA members had to say about the session...
"So many interesting insights on LGBTQ+ travel and how we [in hospitality] can better serve our guests."
"You created a space where it was okay to ask questions and admit I need to know more."
"Keep driving change in our industry, Ed!"
"Warmth, humor, insights!"
Photo Credit: https://www.jenniferlindschutsky.com/
TSA_RooftopPhotoOp_2022.mp4ROOFTOP PHOTO OPP
On 10/5/2022 TSA members met at the Cambria Hotel Phoenix Downtown for a photo shoot with Jennifer Lin Schutsky. VP Kylie made the connections with the hotel and photographer, Mother Nature brought the epic AZ sunset, and TSA members brought their smiles and savvy professional style!
BRIDGING CROSS-BORDER TOURISM
Fall 2022
On Wed. Sep 28, 2022 TSA members met Marisol Vindiola from Visit Tucson. She demonstrated a program for inclusive tourism aimed at helping Southern Arizona businesses widen the welcome for and meet the needs of the Mexico Market consumer.
This event kicked off our Inclusive and Accessible Tourism theme and added to our celebration of Latin American Heritage Month (Sep 15-Oct 15, 2022).
Tourism, Recreation, Sports, & Events
Career Fair
Fall 2022
TSA Members attended a 'boutique' career fair target toward traditional businesses and nontraditional organizations related to their majors. Samples of organizations in attendance were Alaska Travel Adventures, AVE (multi-use property investment and management), Cloth and Flame, i9 Sports, E&J Gallo Wineries, Marriott, Miranda Madison Events, Peace Corps, Peoria Sports Complex, Phoenix Suns, and Town of Gilbert Parks & Recreation...to name a few!
Arizona Super Bowl
Host Committee Panel Event
Fall 2022
Members and friends learned about what it takes to host the Super Bowl in Arizona. Panelists shared the process behind the scenes and what the economic impact will be for not only the Phoenix/Glendale area but surrounding areas and the state as a whole!
Panelists included:
Jennie Patel, Head of Social Responsibility, AZ Super Bowl Host Committee
Bryanna Leone, Manager of Youth Wellness & Nutrition, Dairy Council of AZ
Darrell Perez, Owner and Founder of Xperience Entertainment
TSA_FallSocialBowling_2022.mp4Fall 22 Bowling Social
Members met at AMF Lanes Tempe to bowl, BINGO, and get to know one another. Honestly, there were more gutter balls than strike outs, but that's cool.
We aren't the bowling club.
Andreya took home top prize, the first ever official TSA house plant!
Spring 22 Movie Night
Members enjoyed a cozy evening watching The Grand Budapest Hotel with some pizza, popcorn, and brownies. We also took a stroll through the neighborhood to look at goats and horses! Thank you to the McWilliams for hosting us.
Intern Talk - 2022
Members connected with current and recent interns Raquel, Genna, Curt, and Samantha and got some helpful internship advice and insights!
Club Trip to Southern Arizona!
Members were able to (finally) travel together again! We visited the San Xavier Del Bac Mission, Tombstone, Kartchner Caverns, and Benson!
Uncorked: Discovering Arizona Wine Tourism
Members explored the impacts of vinitourism in rural Arizona alongside Gary Carruthers, owner and GM of Oak Creek Vineyards and Winery.
Alumni Mixer - Spring 2022
Members met Breanna Smith, an event coordinator for Arizona State University.
NASCAR Fundraiser - Spring 2022
Volunteers helped out at Phoenix Raceway, interacted with guests, learned about large sporting event implementation, and raised some money for TSA!
Career Fair Prep Workshop
Special guest and WP Carey Career Coach Kris Adams shared some helpful tips and tricks for nailing a career fair!
Wedding Event Planning Workshop
TSA members got to learn all about the ins, outs, highs, lows, tips and tricks of starting your own business and being a successful wedding event planner.
Featuring special guest speakers, Samantha Glascock and Ivana Camarena from Revel Wedding Co.
Spring 2022 Social -- Snakes & Lattes
TSA members met one another in person, enjoyed some apps and games, and picked up some fresh TSA crewnecks to kick off the new semester.
Traveling Solo Workshop
Members met Amanda Black, founder of the Solo Female Traveler Network, listened to her entrepreneurial journey, and learned some helpful tips for exploring the world on their own.
NASCAR Championship Weekend
Volunteers gained large sporting event experience, practiced being embassadors of hospitality, and helped raise money for TSA!
Alumni Virtual Mixer
Members listened to Will's amazing career journey, received some advice, and learned about the event industry.
Fall Fireside
This semester's Fireside featured Amber Eilers, co-owner of The Strawberry Inn, and Nicole Zopolos, Airbnb flipper and real estate advisor. Members learned about entrepreneurship and female leadership, while getting the opportunity to network with our guest speakers by our cozy digital campfire.
Exploring Voluntourism
TSA, NLASA, and guests came together to explore the voluntourism industry through the lenses of several stakeholders. A meaningful, exploratory discussion took place, with attendees leaving a little more knowledgeable than when they arrived!
Experience Tokyo
TSA, OLLI, and other special guests got to experience Tokyo, as our host, Yuki, took us on a guided tour of the city. As Yuki walked around Tokyo in real time, members and guests learned about Japanese customs, visited ancient temples, and took in Tokyo's breathtaking sights!
Travel Movie Night
Members cozied up at TSA's showing of "The Shining" over pizza and popcorn. Laughs, trivia tidbits, and scruffy hospitality warmed up the crisp autumn night.
Conserve Cambodia's Endangered Wildlife
Members traveled virtually to Cambodia where our host, Sharyn, taught us about conservation efforts, led a hike to Angkorian ruins, and introduced some of her wildlife friends!
Career Prep Workshop
Members learned about all things career-readiness, from networking to 'travelizing' your resume. This event featured SCRD instructor, Korrie Gernert!
Fall Social 2021
Members got the opportunity to get to know one another, enjoy some Travel Trivia, win prizes, and have an awesome kickoff to the Fall 2021 semester!
Leadership Workshop
with Randy Neitzel
Members got to learn about leadership in hospitality and got career advice from Randy Neitzel, Director of People and Culture at The Glacier Park Collection by Pursuit.
NASCAR Fundraiser
Members and guests spent the weekend of March 12-14, 2021 volunteering at Phoenix Raceway during NASCAR Weekend. TSA earned $3,520 through this fundraiser!
How to Ecotourism like a Pro
Long-time ecotourist and TSA Professional Development Chair Valerie Brenes gave members some insight into the ecotourism industry in Costa Rica.
Sustainability Tourism Talk
with Ted Martens
Members got to learn about careers in sustainability and about important lessons on how to create your own career path.
Virtual Club Trip to Ireland
Members got an exclusive virtual tour in real time from Mark McHale. Not only were the scenic views of Ireland showcased, but members also got to hear about Ireland's tourism-related fun facts, history, and culture.
Disney Mixer with Loretta Gordon
Members got to hear about the magic behind working for Disney Destinations, women in leadership, and impacts of COVID-19.
Page, AZ Trip Fall 2019
TSA weekend trip to Page, Arizona in November 2019. TSA members learned about the tourism influx due to social media.
Talking Stick Resort Arena Tour
Members were treated to a behind the scenes tour of the Talking Stick Resort Arena followed by a Sun's basketball game.
Speed Networking Fall 2019
TSA students learned how to start and build a relationship — with their professional careers — through fast-paced networking with educators and industry professionals.
Marriott Networking Breakfast
TSA members participated in the semesterly Marriott Small Group Networking Breakfast The group discussed work/life balance, the importance of networking, and supporting one another!