About

Welcome to the CenStates Chapter of the Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA). Our Chapter is dedicated to promoting travel and tourism research in the Central US States region and connecting professionals who share a passion for this industry.

Our members come from a variety of backgrounds, including academia, government, and private industry, making for a diverse and engaging community.

Membership of the CenStates Chapter is FREE once you join TTRA International – check the box on the application form, which you can access by visiting our membership page.

Region

CenStates, the regional chapter of the Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA), is dedicated to addressing and advocating for various issues specific to the states of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin. As a prominent organization within the travel and tourism industry, CenStates strives to bring together professionals, researchers, and stakeholders from these states to foster collaboration, exchange knowledge, and develop innovative solutions. By focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities within this diverse region, CenStates plays a crucial role in shaping policies, promoting sustainable tourism practices, and supporting economic growth throughout the heartland of the United States.

Board Of Directors

Our chapter is led by a dedicated team of professionals who volunteer their time to serve on our board of directors. Our board members come from a variety of organizations and bring a wealth of experience to the table.

Lorinda Cruikshank

Lorinda Cruikshank

Missouri Division of Tourism

Chair

Sarah Ferguson

Sarah Ferguson

SMARInsights

President

Kelsey Waite

Kelsey Waite

Longwoods International

Vice President

Matthew Kodis

Matthew Kodis

Iowa Tourism Office

Treasurer

Tim Crouson

Tim Crouson

Destination Ann Arbor

Board Member

Becky Liu Lastres

Becky Liu-Lastres

Indiana University-Purdue University

Board Member

John Packer

John Packer

Arrivalist Powered by AirDNA

Board Member

Gina Speckman

Gina Speckman

Chicago's North Shore CVB

Board Member

Shuangyu Xu

Shuangyu Xu

University of Missouri

Board Member

Spencer Zamora

Spencer Zamora

Travel Texas

Board Member

Michael Palmer

Michael Palmer

Treeline Associates

Executive Director

Contact TTRA CenStates Chapter

We welcome inquiries from anyone interested in learning more about our chapter or getting involved in our community. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. We look forward to hearing from you!

Get In Touch

TTRA is a highly respected and established organization dedicated to advancing the standards of travel and tourism research and analysis. With its focus on excellence, professionalism, quality, and inclusivity, TTRA is the go-to source for professionals in the industry seeking to stay ahead in their field.