Susan West, associate professor of tourism at Arkansas Tech University, has been elected to the Arkansas Tourism Development Foundation Board of Directors for 2025-27.
West is the lone higher education representative on the board.
“We are so proud of Professor West and the work that she does to serve the tourism industry in Arkansas,” said Tracy Cole, dean of the ATU College of Business and Economic Development. “She is a driving force that connects ATU and its students with leaders in tourism nationally as well as throughout our state.”
According to information provided by the Arkansas Tourism Development Foundation, the organization “supports the growth and promotion of Arkansas’ tourism industry through leadership, education and development opportunities” and “helps strengthen one of Arkansas’ largest industries” by creating opportunities for tourism professionals and the foundation to collaborate.
“These leaders represent some of the most dedicated professionals in Arkansas tourism,” said Jim Shamburger, immediate past president of the Arkansas Tourism Development Foundation, in the news release announcing the organization’s 2025-27 board. “Together, we will continue to strengthen Arkansas’ position as a premier travel destination and invest in the future of our industry.”
West has served on the ATU faculty since 2008. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin University and a master’s degree from the University of Arkansas. In 2023, West graduated from the three-year Southeast Tourism Society Marketing College program and earned certification as a Travel Marketing Professional. She is a member of the Southeast Tourism Society Board of Directors.
Learn more about the ATU tourism program at www.atu.edu/business/tourism/index.php.
