From the Desk of... Ryan French

“Make Engagement a Priority: How SCTTA is Driving Tourism Growth

Every Monday morning, our team gathers for a Team Session to map out the weeks ahead. We analyze ongoing strategies, evaluate current projects, and ensure our focus remains on the big picture. With so much on our plate—printing local visitor guides, assisting businesses with rack cards and advertisements, securing hundreds of thousands of dollars in grant funding, and writing weekly blog segments—staying engaged is crucial.

Why Engagement Matters

When a new partner signs up with us, there’s a buzz of excitement in the office. Another great business to promote, another industry champion investing in what tourism can offer. But engagement doesn’t stop at sign-up—it’s a continuous process. Throughout the year, we make a point to reconnect with partners, ensuring they remain involved and informed.

Our monthly newsletters aren’t just filler—they serve as a key touchpoint. They highlight what we’re working on, what we need, and where partners can plug in for maximum benefit. They’re an open invitation to engage with the opportunities that best support your business.

A Recent Success Story

Just last month, we celebrated a major win: a state-wide press release that highlighted seven of our partners in the Tennessee Travel Guide. Our region dominated the release because our DMOs maintained a high level of engagement. This is the kind of momentum that drives tourism growth, and it’s a direct result of partners staying involved in the conversation.

Join the Conversation

But we can do more. Each newsletter, each blog post at SCTTA.org, and each initiative we launch is another opportunity to strengthen our region’s tourism industry. When you see our updates, jump in! Share your insights, leverage the resources we provide, and let’s work together to keep tourism thriving in South Central Tennessee.

We know many of you are carrying a heavy load, and we’re here to help. Let’s make engagement a priority—because when we all work together, our region wins.”

- Ryan French

We do this segment in our monthly newsletter. Read the rest of the newsletter HERE.