Our Partners
The George Washington University’s International Institute of Tourism Studies offers a diverse range of innovative, online professional certificate programs designed to empower tourism professionals, career changers, community leaders, and entrepreneurs. From managing sustainable destinations and preserving cultural heritage to mastering event planning and hospitality management, our programs address the most pressing needs and opportunities in today’s global tourism industry.
Our partnerships play a vital role in ensuring the relevance, accessibility, and real-world impact of these programs. By collaborating with respected tourism organizations and industry leaders, we are able to align our curriculum with regional needs, amplify opportunities for professional development, and extend educational pathways to learners who directly shape their communities and destinations. These partnerships strengthen the connection between academic expertise and industry practice, enhancing the learning experience and advancing the shared goal of building a more sustainable, resilient tourism sector.
Our Partners
The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) is the region’s tourism development agency, with 25 Dutch, English, and French country members and a myriad of private sector allied members. The primary objective of the Caribbean Tourism Organization is to provide to and through its members the services and information necessary for the development of sustainable tourism for the economic and social benefit of the Caribbean people. The CTO’s vision is to position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year-round, warm weather destination. Its purpose is Leading Sustainable Tourism – One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.
“The CTO is dedicated to facilitating opportunities for the development of tourism professionals in the Caribbean. We see our partnership with The George Washington University as further strengthening our programming in this critical area,” says Faye Gill, director, membership services at the CTO.
The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) Scholarship Foundation is dedicated to supporting individuals from CTO member countries who aspire to pursue studies in tourism, hospitality, and foreign languages. Our scholarships and study grants recognize academic excellence, leadership, and a strong commitment to advancing Caribbean tourism. Since awarding our first scholarships in 1998, the Foundation has remained committed to fostering the next generation of tourism professionals, guided by a volunteer Board of Directors dedicated to the region’s development.
“Our partnership with George Washington University marks a significant milestone in our mission to enhance tourism education and professional development in the Caribbean. The Sustainable Tourism Destination Management Certificate Program provides an invaluable opportunity for both seasoned professionals and aspiring students in our region to gain cutting-edge knowledge and skills in sustainable tourism practices.”
– Jacqueline Johnson, Chairman, CTO Scholarship Foundation
The U.S. Cultural & Heritage Marketing Council (USCHMC) represents the diverse intersections of communities, cultural experiences, and tourism development. From artisans, museums, heritage sites, and cultural districts - to culinary-agritourism, destination stewardship, and placemaking, USCHMC works across the full spectrum of tourism experiences that shape a community’s identity and economy. At the center of every partnership is a community-first commitment to cultural, environmental, and social opportunities for residents and visitors to explore and thrive.
USCHMC works with tourism boards at the state, regional, and local levels. They also collaborate with destination marketing organizations, museums and cultural attractions, arts institutions, and urban and rural communities to ensure a balanced approach to cultural tourism education, development, and economic sustainability.
In short, USCHMC delivers thought leadership, tailored marketing solutions, business insights, and strategic engagement to elevate authentic destinations, cultural experiences, and creative economies in the U.S. and globally.
“Our partnership with George Washington University creates a vital space for current and emerging leaders to center culture, community, and equity in their tourism strategies. Together, we can amplify local voices, steward heritage and the environment, and design visitor experiences that generate lasting benefits for residents, businesses, and travelers across the region.” – Richard W. Peterson, President & CEO, U.S. Cultural & Heritage Marketing Council