Visit Kingsport’s Taran Christiansen Completes Hospitality & Tourism Certificate Program
Eight students from across Northeast Tennessee, including Visit Kingsport’s Taran Christiansen, recently completed the Hospitality & Tourism Certificate offered in partnership with East Tennessee State University’s Office of Professional Development and the Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association.
Taran Christiansen (UTC ’17, ETSU ’19 and ’22) joined the Visit Kingsport team as the Sports Manager nearly two years ago after serving as the Director of External Operations at Emory & Henry University. She also has previous experience working in external operations at ETSU, as well as various sporting roles in her career so far.
“Tourism is a major economic driver for our region with visitors spending $867 million annually,” said Alicia Phelps, Executive Director of the Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association. “By investing in workforce development through education and training, we can further strengthen the hospitality and tourism sectors. We are thrilled to continue our partnership with ETSU and offer this valuable certification program. Our region boasts a wealth of expertise and renowned institutions, and this program provides unique opportunities for participants to learn from industry leaders and gain hands-on experience.”
Students heard from more than 30 nationally known professionals within the industry, as well as city and county tourism departments and Main Street Programs. Classes were held at Hands On! Discovery Center and Gray Fossil Site.
This certification is the first of its kind to be offered in the region. It is a 2022 recipient of the Associations for Continuing Higher Education South Award.
