In the dynamic and competitive landscape of tourism, Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) play a crucial role in shaping the success and sustainability of their destinations. Strategic planning is essential for DMOs to navigate the complexities of the tourism industry, anticipate challenges, and capitalize on opportunities. This course on Strategic Planning for DMO Tourism Professionals is designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to develop and implement effective strategic plans that align with your destination's goals and stakeholders' interests.

 

VTLI Session III

April 8, 2025

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Moderator:  Becky Nave, VTC

Presenters:

Jay Langston, SVP

John Accordino, VCU

Danielle Fitz Hugh, RRT

Don Schumaker, DSA Sports

Julia Hensley, Augusta County Planning Department

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AGENDA

8:30 a.m. - BREAKFAST

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9:00 a.m. - Approaches to Destination Strategic Planning, Becky Nave, Director of Destination Development, VA Tourism Corporation

• Introduction

• Toolkit for Tourism Strategic/Master Plan

Attendees will be provided with a tool kit/playbook to create their own strategic plan or to improve their existing strategic plan and its updates 

 

Noon - LUNCH

 

1:00 p.m. - Tourism Ambassadors and Community Development Promotions, Danielle Fitz Hugh, Vice President Community Relations, Richmond Region Tourism         

• I Am Tourism – Regional Community Promotion

 

BREAK

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3:15 p.m. - Interactive session on Ambassador & Community Engagement Programs

• Facilitated Discussion with Danielle and Becky. 

 

4:00 p.m. - Community Engagement with Asset Development, Don Schumacher, President, DSA Sports

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VTLI Session III

April 9, 2025

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AGENDA

8:30 a.m. - BREAKFAST

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9:00 a.m. - Overview of Comp Planning Process, Julia Hensley, Augusta County Planning Director

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10:15 a.m. - Comprehensive Planning Management: Giving Tourism a Voice in Land Use and Product Development in Your Community, John Accordino, Ph.D., FAICP, VA Commonwealth University

•  Discussion of Policy applications at the State level

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11:30 a.m. - Asset Production: Strategies and Building Consensus in Your Community, Jay Langston, Ph.D., Executive Director, Shenandoah Valley Partnership

 

1:00 p.m. - LUNCH with VADMO Spring Symposium & Membership Meeting

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