September 8, 2025 - September 11, 2025

SAVE THE DATE!

The Southeast TTRA Chapter Conference is happening September 8-11, 2025, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, at The Golden Nugget Lake Charles, in collaboration with the South East Tourism Society.

The Southeast States Chapter of the Travel and Tourism Research Association (SETTRA) invites academic researchers and industry practitioners to submit abstracts for the Annual Conference & Tourism Research Symposium, held in conjunction with the Southeast Tourism Society’s Connections Conference (September 8-11, 2025, in Lake Charles, Louisiana).

Abstracts are welcomed in two presentation categories:

  • Oral Research Paper Presentation
  • Student Illustrated Paper (Poster) Presentation (Top-rated student submissions will receive a complimentary student registration valued at $250.)

Submissions should focus on topics relevant to tourism in the Southeastern U.S., including:

  • Applied Travel and Tourism
  • Tourism Marketing
  • Natural Disaster Resilience & Recovery
  • Hospitality Research
  • Sustainable Tourism
  • Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging
  • Workforce Development & more

Deadline for submissions: May 2, 2025.

For submission guidelines and details, visit submission site or contact Erick Byrd ([email protected]), Ashton English ([email protected]), or Ignatius Cahyanto ([email protected]).

The Southeast Tourism Society (STS), established on September 14, 1983, is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion and development of tourism across the Southeastern United States. By uniting various segments of the travel and tourism industry, STS aims to enhance the economic vitality of the region through advocacy, education, recognition, and networking opportunities.

A cornerstone of STS’s initiatives is the annual Connections Conference, which serves as a premier educational and networking event for tourism professionals. The conference offers attendees insights into the latest industry trends, opportunities to share best practices, and platforms to connect with colleagues from across the region. The 2025 Connections Conference is scheduled for September 8-11 in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

For members of the Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA) Southeast chapter, participating in the STS Connections Conference presents a valuable opportunity to engage with industry leaders, gain fresh perspectives, and contribute to the advancement of tourism in the Southeast.

  • Gain valuable insights: Hear from leading experts in transportation planning, engineering, and research.
  • Expand your professional network: Connect with seasoned professionals, potential mentors, and future collaborators.
  • Explore career paths: Discover exciting career opportunities and gain valuable career advice.
  • Showcase your research: Present your own research and gain valuable feedback from industry peers.
  • Enhance your skills: Participate in workshops and training sessions to develop your professional skills.

The 2025 Southeast Tourism Society (STS) Connections Conference will be hosted at the Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana, from September 8-11, 2025.

The Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino is a premier resort offering luxurious accommodations, a variety of dining options, a full-service casino, and numerous entertainment venues. Located along the picturesque waterfront of Lake Charles, the resort provides guests with a blend of comfort and excitement, making it an ideal venue for the conference.

Attendees can look forward to engaging sessions and networking opportunities within the vibrant atmosphere of this esteemed resort.

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