Accessible Tourism Ambassador Training

Description

We are excited to invite you to the upcoming Accessible Tourism Ambassador (ATA) training on May 22 at the Best Western Agate Beach Inn - a practical, engaging workshop designed for tourism professionals, frontline staff, business owners, and destination planners who want to lead in creating inclusive travel experiences. The flyer is also attached to this email - please share with colleagues and friends :) What You Will Experience: The experiential training blends hands-on activities, group collaboration, and real-world case studies. You will actively practice accessibility strategies and leave with actionable tools you can use immediately. 

What You Will Gain 

● Practical accessibility strategies you can implement right away 

● Insights from real-world success stories across the travel industry, including innovative products and tech improvements that support inclusive service delivery 

● Networking opportunities with peers, experts, and advocacy leaders ● Receive access to the Guidebook for Improving Accessibility for Oregon Tourism Providers 

● Accessibility Ambassador Certificate of Completion to showcase your leadership in inclusive tourism 

Meet the Presenters 

● Dr. Pavlina McGrady – Associate Professor in Tourism and Sustainability at Southern Oregon University's School of Business. Her research explores barriers to accessible tourism, destination stewardship, regenerative tourism, and the connection between corporate sustainability, innovation, and leadership. 

● Dr. Rebecca Williams – Assistant Professor in Organizational Leadership at Southern Oregon University's School of Business. As a wheelchair user with paralysis, she brings both professional expertise and lived experience. Her consulting and research focuses on Functional ADA solutions that help businesses create high-quality accessible environments. 

Training Details 

📅 Date/Time: 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM (refreshments and lunch included) 

📍 Location: Best Western Agate Beach Inn (3019 N Coast Hwy, Newport, OR 97365) 

🔗 Register here: https://tinyurl.com/ATA-RSVP 

The project has been funded in part by a grant from Travel Oregon, as well as the Institute for Applied Sustainability at Southern Oregon University, so there is no cost to attend. However, spaces are limited, and the number of meals and drinks is reserved per confirmed participant. Please register early to secure your spot. You will receive a confirmation email a couple of days after completing the registration survey. If your plans change, we kindly ask that you release your seat by emailing mcgradyp1@sou.edu so others may benefit. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Pavlina McGrady at mcgradyp1@sou.edu.