July 14, 2026
The Travel and Tourism Research Association has lost one of the true pioneers of our profession with the passing of Dr. John Hunt.
Long before tourism research became an established academic discipline, John recognized that understanding visitors, protecting natural resources, and strengthening destination communities were inseparable goals. His career reflected that philosophy from the beginning.
After his early work with the National Park Service, John joined Utah State University, where he helped build one of the nation’s leading programs in outdoor recreation and tourism. Through his teaching, research, and leadership of the Institute for the Study of Outdoor Recreation and Tourism, he influenced generations of students, researchers, and practitioners.
John’s commitment to advancing the profession extended well beyond the classroom. A dedicated member of the Travel and Tourism Research Association for many years, he served as President of TTRA in 1991, helping guide the organization during a formative period in its history. He believed deeply in bringing together researchers, practitioners, and educators to improve both the science and practice of tourism. His leadership helped strengthen TTRA’s role as a forum for collaboration, innovation, and the exchange of ideas.
John’s work helped shape the way we think about tourism, not simply as an economic activity, but as a relationship between people, places, and stewardship. His research demonstrated that thoughtful planning could protect treasured landscapes, improve the quality of visitor experiences, and support local communities. These ideas are now widely accepted, but they were innovative when John first championed them.
Throughout his career, John was fortunate to share both his life and his professional passion with his wife, Dr. Kristin DeNure Hunt, herself a respected tourism researcher and educator. Together, they contributed significantly to the advancement of tourism scholarship and inspired countless students and colleagues through their teaching, research, and mentorship.
Those fortunate enough to know John remember more than his impressive résumé. They remember his curiosity, generosity, quiet wisdom, and willingness to encourage young professionals. He possessed the rare ability to connect scholarship with real-world application while never losing sight of the people and places that make travel meaningful.
The recognition John received throughout his career, including his induction into the Utah Tourism Hall of Fame, reflected not only his professional accomplishments but also the respect and admiration he earned from those who worked alongside him. Yet perhaps his greatest legacy can be found in the countless students, colleagues, and professionals whose work continues to be influenced by his vision.
The tourism research community is stronger because of John’s lifetime of service. His scholarship, leadership, and mentorship helped lay the foundation upon which much of today’s tourism research has been built.
On a personal note, John was the person who first introduced me to TTRA nearly forty years ago. Like so many others, I benefited from his encouragement, mentorship, and belief that there was always room at the table for someone new. Looking back, it is remarkable how one invitation, one conversation, or one friendship can shape an entire career. I know I am far from alone in owing John a debt of gratitude.
John also understood something that made TTRA unlike any other professional organization. He believed that a great conference should do more than educate. It should create a community. Long before the term “networking” became fashionable, John was building what many of us came to know simply as the TTRA family. He wanted people to leave each conference not only with new ideas, but also with new friendships and lasting memories. We did.
That philosophy came alive in the conferences he helped shape. John believed every meeting should reflect the spirit of its host destination. Whether we were enjoying gospel singers in the South, donning lobster hats in New England, listening to jazz in Louisiana, or celebrating other local traditions, he reminded us that tourism is ultimately about people, culture, and shared experiences.
Those moments of laughter and connection were never distractions from the conference. They were an essential part of it. John knew that the strongest professional communities are built as much through shared meals, music, and conversation as they are in meeting rooms.
John helped shape not only the field of tourism research, but also the community of scholars, practitioners, and lifelong friends who continue that work through TTRA. His presence will be deeply missed, but his influence will endure for generations.
We extend our deepest condolences to Kristin, his family, friends, former students, and colleagues. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the profession he helped build, and the TTRA family he helped create.
Donna Larsen
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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