From the Desk of... Ryan French

"I'm thrilled to launch our new series, "From the Desk of," where each month a team member will share firsthand insights into their experiences across the region, as well as updates on projects, activities, and the latest happenings at SCTTA."

September and October are always my busiest months, and this year was no different. I had the opportunity to attend STS Connections in Auburn, Alabama; the GovCon on Tourism in Chattanooga; the GovCon on Economic and Community Development in Knoxville; and the Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee Rural Tourism Conference in Union City.

It was a whirlwind two months, but incredibly rewarding! At STS Connections, I was honored to walk the stage with over 70 industry colleagues to receive my Tourism Marketing Professional Certification. I’ve mentioned it before, but this has been the most impactful professional development experience of my career. Over three years, we immersed ourselves in marketing strategies and industry insights while building invaluable connections nationwide. Tourism is, at its core, a relationship-driven business, and this network is a vital tool for success. If you haven’t attended, I highly recommend it.

Auburn also marked a special milestone, as it was my last official event with Dominic as a full-time colleague. Working alongside Dominic has been a privilege, and his contributions—particularly in building stronger alliances across the region—have been invaluable. Although he’s now working with us in a contractor role, we’re thrilled he’s still part of the team. I want to take this moment to thank Dominic for his friendship and his dedication to our mission.

Now, let’s talk about earning DMO of the Year at this year’s Purple Iris Awards! It was an incredible feeling to see our hard work and commitment recognized. This award belongs to all of us, from the regional office to our local DMOs and business partners. Together, we’re elevating tourism in our region, and every partner involved has embraced this collaborative vision. It’s truly a case of "all boats rising together," and we’re just getting started.

Looking ahead, we have an exceptional team lined up for 2025. Many of you have already met Amanda, Sophia, and Lane, who are essential to our daily operations. Cindy Dupree Holloway has also been instrumental in amplifying our region’s visibility through Experience Tennessee, Tennessee Whiskey Country, and Nashville’s Big Back Yard. Dominic remains on board, helping with grant strategies and more. At the welcome center and trailhead, Jeff, Billy, and Colton have transformed our interactions with travelers, welcoming nearly 200,000 visitors this year alone and guiding over 12,000 along the Tennessee Whiskey Trail. With this rock-star team in place, I’m more excited than ever about what’s to come!

In closing, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of incredible partnerships and growth, and I’m grateful to be on this journey with each of you. Our team is here to support you, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds.

Cheers, friends!”

- Ryan French

READ THE FULL NEWSLETTER: https://mailchi.mp/ef4e285d84a7/sctta-november-industry-newsletter