Southeastern Louisiana University College of Business has received a $7,500 donation from the Louisiana Travel Association through the Louisiana Tourism Fund. This contribution underscores LTA’s commitment to fostering workforce development opportunities within Louisiana’s vibrant tourism industry.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to LTA for their commitment to education and the future of hospitality and tourism,” said College of Business Dean Tara Lopez.
As a trade association, LTA plays a pivotal role in strengthening Louisiana’s tourism sector through advocacy, education, and promotion. Tourism is a significant economic driver for the state, According to MMGY Global, Louisiana welcomed 43 million domestic and international visitors in 2023, an increase of 420,000 over 2022.
The visitors spent a total of $18.1 billion in 2023, an increase of 5.4% from 2022. Additionally in 2023, visitor spending generated $1.9 billion in state and local taxes. Tax revenue generated through travel and tourism spending saves each household in Louisiana $1,098 a year in taxes that would be needed to maintain current services.
Recognizing the importance of investing in educational programs, LTA has chosen to support the Southeastern College of Business in order to bring awareness to jobs in the hospitality and tourism industry.
“We believe in nurturing talent within our state. This donation to the Southeastern College of Business aligns perfectly with our mission to promote jobs in Louisiana’s fourth largest industry and bring awareness to hospitality and tourism as a career path post-graduation,” said President/CEO of the LTA Chris Landry.
LTA SUPPORTS SOUTHEASTERN COLLEGE OF BUSINESS – Southeastern Louisiana University College of Business has received a $7,500 donation from the Louisiana Travel Association through the Louisiana Tourism Fund. Pictured, from left, are Director of Leadership and Professional Advancement Tonya Crombie, Vice President of University Advancement Wendy Lauderdale, Dean of the College of Business Tará Lopez, LTA Board Member and founder of Jambalaya Girl Kristen Preau, Southeastern President William Wainwright, President/CEO of the Louisiana Travel Association Chris Landry, Executive Director of Tangipahoa Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau Carla Tate, Baton Rouge Marriott, 2024 LTA Executive Committee Chairman Ralph Ney, and Executive Vice President of City Group Hospitality and LTA Board Member Stephen Hightower.
