Transforming Travel: The Path to Resilience and Sustainability

3:35 - 4:25 p.m., Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Virtual Panel Only
Zoom Webinar URL link for attendees will be listed here two-weeks prior to date.

Travel is a dynamic industry that faces a wide range of challenges, from natural disasters and economic crises to pandemics and climate change. As global travel patterns evolve, the need for resilience in travel has never been more critical. Places, businesses, and communities must adapt to these uncertainties and focus on sustainable practices, innovative strategies, and collaborative efforts that enable travel to recover, thrive, and grow in the face of adversity. How can places prepare for and respond to unexpected crises, such as natural disasters? What role do residents play in fostering resilience in the places they live? In what ways can technology and innovation support the resilience of travel businesses, particularly in times of disruption? How can everyone work together to build a resilient place for travel that can weather future challenges while providing enriching, responsible experiences for travelers worldwide?

Presenters

CEO & President Brad Dean

Brad Dean

CEO & President
Explore St. Louis

Chief Public Affairs Officer T. Illihia Gionson

T. Illihia Gionson

Chief Public Affairs Officer
W. M. Keck Observatory

Director, International Institute of Tourism Studies Seleni Matus

Seleni Matus

Director, International Institute of Tourism Studies
George Washington University

Assistant Professor, City and Regional Planning Systems Chris Quattro

Chris Quattro

Assistant Professor, City and Regional Planning Systems
Appalachian State University