June 24, 2026
Greenville, South Carolina, June 2026 – The Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA) is proud to announce the inaugural class of TTRA Fellows, a distinguished honor recognizing individuals whose careers have demonstrated exceptional contributions to travel and tourism research, education, mentorship, leadership, and service.
The TTRA Fellows Program was established to celebrate and recognize members whose impact has helped shape the travel and tourism profession while strengthening the global research community. Fellows represent the highest standards of scholarship, collaboration, and commitment to advancing the strategic use of research to create positive impacts on people, places, and society.
The inaugural TTRA Fellows are:
- Dr. Sarah Gardiner
- Dr. Whitney Knollenberg
- Dr. Gyan Nyaupane
- Dr. James F. Petrick
These individuals have each made significant and lasting contributions to tourism research and education, while also serving as mentors, leaders, and advocates for the next generation of professionals and scholars.
“As TTRA continues to grow and strengthen its global community, it is important that we recognize those whose dedication and contributions have helped shape both our association and the broader tourism research profession,” said TTRA President Lynne Coxwell. “The inaugural Fellows represent excellence, leadership, and a deep commitment to the values that define TTRA.”
In addition to recognizing distinguished achievement, the Fellows Program is designed to foster continued engagement within the association. Fellows will serve as ambassadors, mentors, and thought leaders who help strengthen connections between research and practice while supporting the development of future leaders in the field.
The announcement was made during the 2026 TTRA International Conference in Greenville, South Carolina, where members gathered to explore the theme, Shaping the Future of Tourism: Collaborative Horizons in Research, Education, and Practice.
TTRA congratulates the inaugural class of Fellows and thanks them for their extraordinary contributions to the advancement of travel and tourism research.
To learn more about the TTRA Fellows Program and the inaugural Fellows, click here
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About TTRA
The Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA) is a global non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the travel and tourism industry through impactful research, education, and collaboration. Comprised of a diverse community of professionals, academics, and industry leaders, TTRA provides a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and fostering innovation. With a commitment to driving sustainable growth and excellence in travel and tourism, TTRA continually strives to advance insights and best practices, shaping the industry’s future. TTRA members collaborate to advance the strategic use of research to provide leading-edge travel and tourism solutions that create a positive impact on people, places, and society. For more information, visit www.ttra.com