International Board of Directors Elections 2024-2025

Dr. Xiang (Robert) Li
Professor and Chair, Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management
Temple University

Dr. Robert Li is a distinguished Arthur F. McGonigle Senior Fellow and serves as the Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management Chairperson at Temple University. He is also the Director of Temple’s U.S.-Asia Center for Tourism and Hospitality Research. With a prolific academic career, Dr. Li has authored over 230 scientific publications, including more than 60 papers and editorials in leading tourism, business, leisure, and hospitality journals.

His research, which has attracted over $2.1 million in funding, spans a variety of tourism-related areas. Dr. Li’s expertise and insights have been sought by prestigious organizations such as the World Travel & Tourism Council, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Travel and Tourism Office, Destination Canada, and China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism. His contributions have also been recognized in media outlets, including the New York Times, The Economist, and Forbes.

A dedicated member of the TTRA, Dr. Li has significantly contributed as a presenter, panelist, reviewer, and editorial board member for the Journal of Travel Research. He currently serves on the TTRA Board of Directors, continuing his long-standing commitment to advancing the travel and tourism research community.

Chelsea Benitez
Director of Consumer Research
Brand USA

As a devoted member of the Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA) since 2013, I have had the opportunity to closely observe and contribute to the substantial impacts TTRA makes within the tourism industry. In 2021, I was honored to join the International Board of Directors, where I led the marketing committee. My focus has been enhancing our social media presence and amplifying the visibility of TTRA’s varied initiatives and flagship conferences.

As the Director of Consumer Research at Brand USA, I actively engage with other TTRA members to further our shared objectives. This collaboration reinforces my commitment to the mission of TTRA. I am passionately dedicated to the success of TTRA and am enthusiastic about the possibility of continuing to serve and promote our mission through my re-election to the board.

Chris Christmas
Director of Destination Partnerships
KeyData

I am excited to announce my candidacy for the TTRA Board of Directors. Having grown increasingly connected with TTRA over the years, I am eager to contribute to our organization’s ongoing success and impact. What draws me most to TTRA is its dynamic nature—its international scope, strong regional presence, and its integration of academic leadership.

As the current Director of Destination Partnerships at Key Data, where I work closely with over 300 Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs), I have a firsthand view of how TTRA’s partnerships and initiatives significantly influence the industry. My role has provided me with extensive insights into the global tourism market, especially as Key Data expands internationally. This experience positions me to bring fresh perspectives to TTRA’s future projects, including our upcoming event in Galway in 2025.

My active involvement in the Marketing Outlook Forum and Annual conferences and participation in chapter events across NETTRA, CenStates, GWTRA, and SETTRA have deepened my understanding of our industry’s diverse regions and needs. I have enjoyed presenting on behalf of my company, participating in panels, and contributing to academic projects such as the inaugural TTRA Think Tank and the NCSU DMO Data Toolkit Project.

Beyond professional contributions, I am a passionate traveler, having visited 48 U.S. states and 12 countries, often accompanied by my husky, Niko. These travels have enriched my understanding of the unique challenges and objectives of different destinations, reinforcing the importance of our work in shaping memorable and impactful travel experiences.

I am committed to leveraging my extensive network and knowledge within the TTRA community—connecting DMO practitioners, vendors, and academics—to foster collaboration and innovation. Thank you for considering my candidacy for the TTRA Board of Directors. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute further to our industry’s growth and success.

Jennifer Chun
Director of Tourism Research
State of Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism

I am honored to announce my candidacy to continue serving on the TTRA Board of Directors for the term beginning July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2027. Having served since the current term and participated actively in one BOD meeting so far, I am eager to sustain my involvement and support for the Board’s Guiding Principles and TTRA’s Shared Values.

As a member of the Practitioner committee for the 2024 Annual Conference, I have successfully secured a keynote speaker and will be moderating a panel. My efforts include setting up engaging Destination Tables at MOF and Annual Conferences, an initiative I’ve proudly led alongside my Hawai‘i colleagues and, most recently, on my own.

My long-standing commitment to TTRA is further reflected in my continuous membership and active participation in the Hawai‘i Chapter since 1996. During this time, I have organized numerous chapter events and consistently advocated for TTRA membership, emphasizing the benefits of active involvement in our association.

My professional journey spans roles as a client and a vendor, allowing me to understand and integrate diverse perspectives within our industry. My leadership roles in other significant tourism organizations, like Skål International and the Pacific Asia Travel Association, enhance my contribution to TTRA with extensive experience and connections, especially in the Asia Pacific region.

I am committed to leveraging my unique insights and experiences to further enrich TTRA’s mission and impact. Thank you for considering my continued participation on the TTRA Board of Directors.

Nancy McGehee
R.B. Pamplin Professor of Hospitality and Tourism Management
Virginia Tech

Nancy McGehee holds the distinguished position of R.B. Pamplin Professor of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Virginia Tech, where she has led the department to top rankings globally.

Her academic career is highlighted by extensive publications, including over 50 peer-reviewed journal articles and multiple books. She has made significant contributions to the fields of volunteer tourism and sustainable practices. Her research has garnered wide recognition and attracted substantial funding, supporting her continued exploration of innovative tourism strategies. Nancy’s expertise is frequently sought after for international collaborations and advisory roles, enhancing her impact on global tourism education.

An active and committed member of TTRA, Nancy has served in various capacities, including presentations at conferences, contributions to the Journal of Travel Research, and being a board member. Her dedication to advancing tourism research and education continues to influence industry and academia.