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UT Students’ Experience at Tennessee’s Annual Governor’s Conference on Hospitality and Tourism

October 10, 2024 by Douglas Edlund

UT Students’ Experience at Tennessee’s Annual Governor’s Conference on Hospitality and Tourism

By Cara Smith, CEHHS Student Reporter, Class of 2024

Three students from the Department of Retail, Hospitality, and Tourism Management (RHTM) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, attended the 2024 Governor’s Conference (Gov Con) in Chattanooga on Sept. 25-27.

Erin Cosentino, Paul Vaughn, and Lily Vincent were three out of 10 students in the Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM) program chosen to attend Gov Con by the Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association (TNHTA).

Group photo of GovCon attendees. — **(L-R) Lilly Vincent, Erin Consentino, Paul Vaughn**

The students submitted applications for the selection process, and professors in the department provided letters of recommendation.

“It was such an honor to be chosen to attend Gov Con. I appreciated the letters of support on my behalf from the RHTM department, here at UT, as well as the support from the TNHTA,” said Cosentino.

Gov Con is a three-day conference that brings together representatives of Tennessee’s travel and tourism industry. Speakers at this year’s conference included Gov. Bill Lee and Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Mark Ezell.

Being chosen to attend Gov Con is a recognition of student’s hard work, talent, and potential for the hospitality and tourism industry.

“It came with a great sense of responsibility, knowing that I was representing my university, and was truly rewarding,” said Cosentino.

While attending Gov Con, all three students had opportunities to make professional connections. They split off into breakout groups, where experts in HTM gave advice on different topics, like how expansions of airports affects travel and how to use TripAdvisor to maximize all its benefits.

Speeches at the conference were also a highlight to the students because they provided first-hand examples of Tennessee’s tourism industry.

“Commissioner Ezell gave a very insightful and informative presentation about the state’s high-ranking position in various categories of tourism across the country,” said Vaughn.

All three students recommend applying and attending Gov Con for the different skills learned and networking connections made.

“I would highly recommend this conference to any student wanting to be in the hospitality industry, especially if you wish to stay in Tennessee because you learn a lot of statistics about the state, as well as meet a ton of people,” said Vincent.

Advice they gave to next year’s participants is to be engaged, be present, set a goal, and ask lots of questions.

“Put your heart and soul into your application, because it is an experience you will never forget!” said Vaughn.

Mark Finchum Inducted into Educators Hall of Honor

April 5, 2024 by Alyssa Seisser

Mark Finchum Inducted into Educators Hall of Honor

Mark Finchum’s academic journey is a testament to his commitment to lifelong learning and professional development. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Communications, followed by a Master of Science in Curriculum & Instruction, and ultimately achieved a Ph.D. in Social Studies Education, all from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Throughout his 33-year tenure as a social studies educator, he consistently demonstrated excellence in teaching and unwavering dedication to his craft. He has been recognized through numerous accolades, including the Middle School Teacher of the Year and the Distinguished Classroom Teacher Award in Jefferson County. Mark’s contributions to the field were further acknowledged with prestigious honors such as the American History Teacher of the Year from the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Finchum’s impact extends beyond the classroom and his involvement reflects his commitment to community engagement and historical preservation. His involvement includes: the Jefferson County Historical Society, Tennessee Geographic Alliance, the Governor John Sevier Memorial Association, and the East Tennessee Historical Society. He has served as the Past President and current Executive Director of the Tennessee Council for the Social Studies (TCSS), demonstrating his commitment to advancing social studies education statewide. Mark’s leadership extends to the national level as well, where he served as a board member for the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) and chairs the NCSS Indigenous Education Community.

Finchum, along with his wife Sherry, co-founded Indian Creek Productions, Inc., which hosts the annual Spirit of Nations Powwow at Jefferson County High School, and conducts workshops for teachers’ professional development.

Other professional accomplishments include various consultative roles, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to advancing educational resources. His contributions to projects with organizations such as the Library of Congress, PBS News Hour, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian, Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park Museum, Freedoms Foundation in Valley Forge, and various textbook publishers reflect his dedication to enhancing educational materials and experiences for students nationwide.

Denise Dean Inducted into Educators Hall of Honor

April 5, 2024 by Alyssa Seisser

Denise Dean Inducted into Educators Hall of Honor

Denise Dean’s love for children is what led her to start the East Tennessee Freedom Schools where she is the Executive Director. ETFS delivers the Children’s Defense Funds’ Freedom Schools® program that helps children fall in love with reading and engage in social and civic action. They operate three sites, two in Knox County and one in Blount County. She is proud to offer a program that makes a difference and where communities of children and families can learn, love and flourish.

In 2003 Denise left IBM as an executive where she led and worked in the areas of sales, management training, executive coaching, and Organization Development. She left to become an elementary school teacher. She spent her first year of teaching with 5th-grade students in San Jose, CA. In subsequent moves she delivered programs and tutored children at elementary schools in Bethel, Connecticut, Dubai, U.A.E., and here in Knoxville, TN.

Denise’s IBM career, teacher training, and life experience have prepared her well for her current journey. Making the CDF Freedom Schools® program available to children in neighborhoods across East Tennessee is how she will leverage her experience to make a positive difference.

In addition to running ETFS, Denise serves on the boards of Muse Knoxville, the East Tennessee Foundation, the Community Building Institute, and Harmony Family Center.

Denise has a Bachelor of Arts from Harvard College, a Masters in Organization Development from American University, and a Teaching Credential from San Jose State University.

Jimmy Cheek Inducted into Educators Hall of Honor

April 5, 2024 by Alyssa Seisser

Jimmy Cheek Inducted into Educators Hall of Honor

Jimmy G. Cheek is Chancellor Emeritus and Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Higher Education in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at The University of Tennessee, Knoxville and Former Director of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville Postsecondary Education Research Center.

Cheek became the seventh chancellor of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, on February 1, 2009 and stepped down from that position on February 15, 2017.

Within a year of taking office, he accepted the Governor’s challenge for UT to become a Top 25 public research university in the United States. This aggressive initiative sparked exciting momentum around improving undergraduate education, graduate education, research, campus infrastructure, and securing additional financial resources which included approval by the Board of Trustees of differential tuition for 4 colleges and the 15-4 tuition model. In 2012 the campus launched a private fundraising campaign, Join the Journey, with a goal to raise $1.1 billion by 2020.

A first-generation college student, Cheek set in motion several initiatives to increase diversity and student access to the university. A vice chancellor for diversity and engagement was created. The university’s work on improving access led to Cheek’s participation in two White House Summits on increasing college opportunity for low-income students.

Prior to his appointment at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Cheek was the Senior Vice President for Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Florida. He also served as Dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS), As dean, Cheek oversaw the development of four new degree programs and eleven undergraduate minors.

Cheek became Assistant Dean of the College in 1992 and served in the role for seven years prior to becoming Dean. During his tenure as the assistant dean, enrollment increased 120%, the number of degrees conferred doubled, early admission programs with the College of Dentistry and the College of Veterinary Medicine were launched, and an off-campus program was initiated at Milton. Cheek was hired at the University of Florida in 1975 as an Assistant Professor of Agricultural Education and Communication and became Professor in 1985. In 1981, he was appointed Assistant Department Chair and served in that role until 1992.

Are Student Consent Forms Outdated When it Comes to Privacy?

March 26, 2024 by Alyssa Seisser

Are Student Consent Forms Outdated When it Comes to Privacy?

Study Examines Media Release Policies of U.S. School Districts

It’s 2024. Do you know where your child’s private information is on the internet? The latest addition to a line of research initiated by Knox County teacher and University of Tennessee, Knoxville, alumna, Macy A. Burchfield (‘22), and co-authored by associate professor in the Department of Theory & Practice in Teacher Education, Joshua M. Rosenberg and Sondra M. Stegenga from the University of Utah, has revealed the alarming indication that, not only is private information belonging to school-aged children circulating through social media channels largely untracked and unprotected, the media release policies and parental consent forms in use among the nation’s largest school districts currently do not inform caregivers about their planned use of social media in a comprehensive way. These policies, or, lack thereof, may be where the problems and risks with student data privacy in social media are originating.

The new study, published in The Journal of Research on Technology in Education, used qualitative content analysis (QCA) to analyze district policies from the 120 largest school districts in the United States, based on enrollment. The districts contained more than 86,000 students on average, or, about 20.9 percent of students in the country.

Though 87.7 percent of informed consent/media release documents analyzed mentioned the types of media that might be shared by the school, (photos, students’ names) and where it may be shared (newspapers, school websites, social media in general), only 13.3 percent of the forms contained mention of specific social media platforms where student information may be shared, such as Facebook, X, or YouTube. Furthermore, almost no forms disclosed the potential risks of sharing students’ personal information publicly. This is concerning since we know as a society that social media use is extremely widespread and that privacy risks exist, let alone the possibility of FERPA violations from sharing student information.

One thought-provoking and actionable conclusion from the study was that the forms in question may simply be outdated and in need of revision. Many of the consent forms analyzed were created prior to today’s age of social media. These outdated forms were meant to address sharing information in non-digital media, such as school directories and yearbooks.

“We now appear to be in a time of outdated consents that lack the specificity for an authentic understanding of the consents, leading to genuine risks to the child and family,” according to the study. “We question, is it really true informed consent, even if the boxes are checked and it is signed, if the family does not have all the necessary details and information to understand what, where, and why personally identifiable information will be shared?”

In an age of increasing digital experiences across the globe, this study contributes to the larger conversation of digital data ethics and informed consent. School districts in the U.S. and the wider educational community can increase safety by examining and updating their data policies and consent forms to better protect our younger generations’ privacy.

“I must say, attention to this issue of consent is immensely important, not only related to best practices in information security, but also related to the ethical obligations we have in ensuring truly informed consent with parents and students, ” said co-author Sondra Stegena.

KRSS Alum Named Executive Director of Rise Above

March 5, 2024 by Alyssa Seisser

KRSS Alum Named Executive Director of Rise Above

The Growing Seattle Nonprofit Serves Native Youth Through Sports Clinics and Mentorship

Rise Above, a Seattle nonprofit dedicated to empowering Native youth, has announced that Natalie Welch has joined the organization as its new executive director.

“We couldn’t be more excited to have Natalie on our growing team,” says Rise Above CEO and founder Jaci McCormack. “Her expertise, knowledge and compassion are going to help us inspire even more kids.”

Natalie Welch

“I’m thrilled and honored to join Rise Above in this role,” Welch said. “Jaci and Brad have built an amazing foundation through their relationships and passion to serve Native youth.”

Welch brings over a decade of professional experience in the fields of marketing and education. She obtained her MBA from the University of Central Florida and completed her doctorate degree at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, focusing her dissertation on Native American athletes giving back to their communities.

She is originally from the Qualla Boundary in Cherokee, North Carolina, and is an enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Before moving to Seattle, Welch helped build a sport management program at Linfield University in McMinnville, Oregon. She volunteers regularly, including coaching for Girls on the Run, a nonprofit that focuses on the social, emotional, physical and behavioral skills of third- to eighth-grade girls.

As executive director, Welch will oversee Rise Above’s community services, organizing events and coordinating with like-minded nonprofits. Welch will continue in her current role as a professor at Seattle University, teaching in the MBA in Sport and Entertainment program in the Albers School of Business.

Welch Speaking to a Group of Youth in Seattle

“Having Natalie on our team is only going to make our work stronger as our organization expands its reach,” says Rise Above co-founder Brad Meyers. “Our mission is to empower Native kids, and she’s going to help us live out that mission.”

Rise Above is projected to grow 25% annually over the next five years, with an aim to double its staff and programming by 2025. To keep pace with expanding services and increased client requirements, Rise Above seeks a range of talented professionals to conceive, develop and implement new and emerging programs; identify and secure additional sources of funding; and recruit, retain and promote top-tier professionals to manage and shape strategy for the organization.

Rise Above has historically been funded by grants and charitable fund programs. Moving forward, it seeks to enlist more support from individuals, foundations, businesses and community partners.

“In the coming years, we have the opportunity to expand our work beyond the Pacific Northwest by maintaining crucial relationships across Indian Country and local governments,” Dr. Welch explained. “This opportunity to serve our Native people is one that I cherish, and I hope to inspire our youth and let them know that their dreams are possible.”

For more information, please nativeyouthriseabove.org or contact Rise Above at info@nativeyouthriseabove.org.

From the Green Book to the Orange Book: Travel, Tourism, and Resistance in the Black Community

February 9, 2024 by Alyssa Seisser

From the Green Book to the Orange Book: Travel, Tourism, and Resistance in the Black Community

“Carry your Green Book with you. You may need it.”

If you were a Black traveler journeying through the segregated South, odds are you may have heard these words before setting off. From 1936 – 1967, The Negro Motorist Green Book published by Victor Hugo Green, was a guide where Black travelers found friendly businesses that would serve them while traveling. The Green Book, as it became widely known, helped many Black people safely navigate their travels during the Jim Crow Era.

Fast forward to 2023, and the launch of a new resource guide for the greater UT community entitled The Volunteer Orange Book. The Orange Book was initially conceived by a larger working group. The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences (CEHHS) asked for permission to move forward as a smaller project with Dorian L. McCoy, CEHHS Access and Engagement director, serving as the lead. However, McCoy will be the first to say that bringing The Orange Book to life was indeed a team effort, especially through the significant contributions of FUTURE intern, Asjha McAllister and CEHHS Marketing and Communications team.

This February, McCoy will moderate a panel about the legacy of the Green Book on Friday, February 13^th, from 6-8 p.m. at the Beck Cultural Exchange Center. Presented by CEHHS Office of Access and Engagement, The Beck Cultural Exchange Center, and the UT Commission for Black Communities, a highly-regarded panel will discuss the impact of the Green Book through the lenses of scholarly research and lived experiences.

Derek Alderman, Stefanie Benjamin, Sylvia Peters, and Theotis Robinson, Jr., comprise the panel and will discuss how the Green Book inspired a legacy of resistance and empowerment felt today in the Black community. All are invited to travel to the Beck Cultural Exchange Center and join in the conversation. It promises to be an enjoyable evening of learning and understanding.

Since its launch, The Orange Book has become a widely-utilized resource, offering minoritized populations at UT a guide to the Knoxville area and highlights a number of “hidden gems” in the small-business community. What started out as a simple book is morphing into a dynamic web site, with regularly-updated content sure to please many.

You can register at http://tiny.utk.edu/BHM-GreenBook

Dueñas Highlighted as a 2024 Emerging Scholar by Diverse: Issues in Higher Education

January 31, 2024 by Alyssa Seisser

Dueñas Highlighted as a 2024 Emerging Scholar by Diverse: Issues in Higher Education

Mary Dueñas is passionate about student success, especially among underrepresented and marginalized student populations. Because of her passion for students to thrive in a higher education environment, she dedicates a large portion of her scholarship research to examine belonging and mattering in higher education. Her work hasn’t gone unnoticed. She has been named a Top 15 Emergent Scholar. The publication highlights emerging scholars making an impact on education on college campuses nationwide

Her work hasn’t gone unnoticed. Just recently, Diverse: Issues in Higher Education named Dueñas “An Equity and Access Champion” in their January 18^th, 2024, issue and has named her a Top 15 Emergent Scholar. The publication highlights emerging scholars making an impact on education on college campuses nationwide.

“Receiving this national recognition is wonderful, and I’m honored to share this platform with other outstanding scholars from different disciplines,” said Dueñas.

Dueñas is an assistant professor in the department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies (ELPS) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences (CEHHS). In addition, she serves as program coordinator for the master’s student personnel program in College Student Personnel (CSP).

Using both quantative and qualitative research methods, Dueñas focuses on Latina/o/x/e college students’ sense of belonging and their experience with imposter syndrome. She uses holistic frameworks and critical theory to share stories and explain systemic inequities that marginalized communities face in higher education.

“My research examines the ways in which larger social processes affect students and their overall well-being while also addressing underrepresented and marginalized students in relation to retention and success,” said Dueñas.

Cristobal Salinas, Jr., an associate professor of educational leadership and research methodology at Florida Atlantic University, nominated her for this prestigious national recognition. In his nomination letter, Salinas commended Dueñas for her commitment to scholarship that pushes the boundaries of higher education through novel perspectives and an innovative approach to research.

“This commitment to pioneering scholarship has been complemented by her unwavering dedication to teaching and mentoring the next generation of scholars, which is an integral part of her academic mission, explains Salinas.

Despite having a full plate at CEHHS, Dueñas has authored several peer-reviewed journal articles, been a guest on a podcast, and has several works she is authoring or co-authoring under review. One is “Síndrome del impostor: The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Latinx College Students’ Experiences with Imposter Syndrome.” She is co-authoring “Culturally Responsive Mentoring: A Psychosociocultural Perspective on Sustaining Students of Color Career Aspirations in STEM”.

Dueñas takes a glass-half-full approach to her work, focusing on the whole student. In other words, she says it’s about the positives that make a student’s experience successful and asking questions about what works.

“There is a changing landscape in how we think about higher education,” Dueñas says. “It’s not so much about the students adapting to higher education, it’s more about how higher education institutions supporting and serving students.”

Three Educational Psychology and Counseling Masters Students Selected for NBCC Fellowships

January 29, 2024 by Alyssa Seisser

Three Educational Psychology and Counseling Masters Students Selected for NBCC Fellowships

Three masters students in the department of Educational Psychology and Counseling (EPC) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences (CEHHS) are the recipients of a prestigious fellowship award. Abigail Gomez, Ulika Scout, and Tyler Ricks are part of the latest cohort in the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) Minority Fellowship Program (MFP).

As part of the NBCC, the MFP is a prestigious, rigorous, and highly effective program designed to enhance the workforce of professional counselors who have specialized skills to meet the unique needs of underserved communities. According to the organization’s website, the NBCC is the premier credentialing body for counselors. Once nationally certified, NBCC credentialed counselors have achieved the highest standard of practice through education, examination, supervision, experience, and ethical guidelines. As of today, there are over 69,000 national certified counselors in more than 40 countries.

Meet the NBCC MFP Fellows

Abby Gomez is a master’s student who wants to work with underserved populations to provide much-needed quality mental health care.

“I am thrilled to be a part of such a prestigious organization aimed at equipping counselors to support underserved communities, said Gomez. “Not only do I believe that this will profoundly impact my professional development, but that it will also strengthen and equip me to provide quality mental health care to the Hispanic population.”

Tyler Ricks will work with the Minority Fellowship Program for mental health counselors.

“Receiving the NBCC Minority Fellowship opens doors that Black women like myself can’t always access. Unparalleled mentorship, networking opportunities, and financial support are just a few of the ways being an NBCC fellow will advance my career in the counseling field,” stated Ricks.

Ulika (Ulli) Scout master’s studies focus on how counselors may play a role in helping others in facing the challenges of addiction and recovery.

“I am honored by the recognition and investment from NBCC in my current studies and my future as an addiction counselor. I see the previous recipients and those within my new cohort and feel as though I am right where I need to be,” said Scout.

A Program for Professional and Personal Development

“Unmet mental health needs have a significant impact on the wellbeing of our communities in Tennessee and beyond,” said Casey Barrio, department head in EPC. “Sometimes, mental health need goes unmet because there are simply not enough accessible providers. At other times, mental health need goes unmet because community members do not perceive the help that is available help as responsive to their beliefs, values, or context. This unique program targets both areas, equipping participants with unique skills for providing accessible, culturally sustaining counseling services in their communities.”

Jamian Coleman is a previous NBCC Minority Fellow and is an assistant professor in EPC. He credits the fellowship with having a transformative impact on his professional and personal growth and development.

“The NBCC fellowship provided me with invaluable support, mentorship, and numerous opportunities for professional development,” said Coleman. “It significantly influenced my career path, and I am thrilled and proud that three of our outstanding master’s counseling students have been chosen for this fellowship. This reflects the fellowship program’s commitment to nurturing counselors to serve historically marginalized communities. My involvement in theNBCC community has been truly enriching, and I look forward with enthusiasm to witness the ongoing positive transformations it brings about for our students selected for this upcoming NBCC fellowship cohort.”

Established in 1982, NBCC’s original and primary purposes have broadened, and its divisions and affiliates have taken on additional responsibilities to advance the counseling profession and enhance mental health worldwide.

“Our scholars have demonstrated strong potential to optimize mental health care in East Tennessee and beyond. We are proud of the achievements and grateful for the meaningful differences they will make in their communities,” said Barrio.

A Guide To Accessible Travel for People with Disabilities in 2024

January 26, 2024 by Alyssa Seisser

A Guide To Accessible Travel for People with Disabilities in 2024

Reprinted from MarketWatch

Written by Bradford Cuthrell

Edited by Tori Addison

Traveling is an enriching experience that can bring a sense of freedom and excitement as you experience the thrill of exploring new cultures, landscapes and foods. However, for individuals with disabilities, this thrill can also be accompanied by distinct challenges.

When traveling with a disability, each new experience requires attention to detail where accessibility, convenience and safety become paramount. This guide provides insights on strategies for traveling the globe with a disability.

To aid you on this journey, we’ve consulted with two experts:

Dr. Kwangsoo Park, Associate Dean of the College of Business and Director of the White Lodging School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Purdue University Northwest
Dr. Stefanie Benjamin, Associate Professor of Retail, Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University of Tennessee Knoxville

These experts will provide valuable guidance on how to navigate the travel experience for people with disabilities.

Planning Your Trip

Researching your desired destinations and familiarizing yourself with accessibility and disability rights can help you advocate for yourself and enable your needs to be met wherever you decide to go.

“People with disabilities should ensure that their travel destination and accommodations are accessible, taking into account their specific needs. Despite efforts by companies and governments to enforce reasonable accommodations, there are still places that lack adequate facilities for individuals with certain disabilities,” Dr. Park said.

In the planning stages, it can be helpful to look into special protections or services available for individuals with disabilities at airports, such as designated assistance services, to ensure an itinerary that allows you to accomplish your travel goals.

Following these planning steps can help make your trip as accessible and enjoyable as possible.

Plan Your Trip Backward

Before you start planning, it can help to first determine desired activities at your selected destination. By doing so, you can make sure the places you want to visit and the activities you wish to engage in are easily accessible.

When researching, seek out resources specifically dedicated to your unique community for trustworthy information on accessible-friendly guided tours, how to access tourist attractions and other valuable details. By utilizing comprehensive resources, you can plan a trip that caters to your needs and create an enjoyable and inclusive travel experience.

Make Reservations that Ensure Accessibility

After conducting thorough research on the accessibility of your chosen destination, the next step is to make reservations.

“Depending on the disability — lots of planning is involved when traveling. Always consider and understand that not every destination is the same,” Dr. Stefanie Benjamin said.

Take the time to explore and identify accommodations, such as hotels, tours and excursions, that offer specialized accessibility features as this will make your travel experience more seamless. Consider factors such as transportation options, and book airline, bus or train tickets with companies that prioritize and cater to accessibility needs.

Proactively considering these aspects and making reservations with accessibility at the forefront of planning can offer peace of mind in knowing your trip will be free from any last-minute accessibility-related concerns.

Research Protective Measures for Traveling

In the realm of travel, unpredictability will occasionally arise, making it important to consider protective measures for your safety and well-being. One of the most common precautions to consider is obtaining comprehensive travel insurance. This type of insurance covers unforeseen circumstances while traveling, including trip cancellations, unexpected medical emergencies or misplaced luggage, among other incidents. By securing adequate travel insurance, you can rest assured in knowing you have financial protection against potential trip hurdles.

It’s also important to note and be aware of the special protections that airports offer to individuals with disabilities. Airports provide equal access and comfortable travel experiences with accessible parking spaces, restrooms with features like grab bars and trained staff to assist passengers. Other examples include alternative screening procedures and private screenings, the ability to bring medical equipment and mobility aids onboard the plane, and other assistance programs like wheelchair assistance and transportation.

Before you fly, familiarize yourself with the protective resources available at the departure and arrival airports by either contacting each location or checking online for a list of services. These special protections are there to ensure that individuals with disabilities can travel with safety, comfort and dignity.

Packing Tips

While packing for your trip, consider items and equipment that will help support your needs while traveling. Airlines are not allowed to charge for transporting mobility equipment like wheelchairs and generally accept service dogs to support accessible travel.

Here is a table outlining several essential items to pack:

Item	Reason
Comfort items	Familiar items can help make you feel more at ease while traveling
Medical equipment	Ensure necessary medical equipment is available
Collapsible shower chairs	Assists with accessibility in bathing facilities
Medications and prescriptions	Make sure you have an ample supply of necessary medications while you travel
Collapsible walking aids	Supports mobility and ease of movement
Assistive hearing aids	Allows for full participation in travel engagements
Medical ID	Provides important medical information in the case of an emergency

By considering these and any other specific items based on your needs, you can be well-prepared for any trip and have the necessary support and comfort throughout your journey.

Navigating the Airport

When traveling by air, navigating the airport can be a challenge, especially for individuals with disabilities or mobility impairments. However, careful planning and preparation can combat the anxieties involved and create a stress-free experience.

Checking Bags and Other Items

Before heading to the airport, familiarize yourself with the policies and procedures for checking bags and other items. Getting to the airport early is always recommended to allow sufficient time for check-in and security screening. “Arriving earlier than told is key,” Benjamin added.

If you require any assistance, such as checking wheelchairs or other assistive devices, it is advisable to call ahead and inform the airline of your specific needs. If you are worried about your bags getting lost during transit, consider buying baggage coverage to protect your belongings.

Getting Through Security, Boarding and Deplaning

Security procedures can be quite daunting, but there are several ways to make the process easier. Similar to checking bags, it is advisable to inform the airport and TSA in advance of any accommodations or assistance you require. TSA Cares is a program designed to assist travelers with disabilities or medical conditions when it comes to getting through security, boarding and deplaning. Additionally, traveling with a companion can provide that extra layer of support throughout your journey.

To expedite the security screening processes, consider applying for TSA Precheck to evade long lines and wait times. Looking ahead at airport maps can help you locate accessible restrooms and food options that meet your dietary restrictions and know what to expect. When it comes to getting to your gate, you can file a ride request from airport staff to save you time and energy. Lastly, contacting your airline in advance to arrange for assistance during boarding and deplaning can help facilitate the assistance you need.

Safety Tips While Traveling at the Airport

Navigating the airport can be a manageable process if you plan ahead and are aware of the available resources and accommodations. While traveling, it is important to prioritize safety and to be aware of your rights and accessibility laws.

Mobility-impaired individuals are often targeted by thieves, so it is crucial to keep your bags close at all times. “While this situation can occur for anyone, it’s advisable to keep important documents and valuables secure. I would strongly recommend that people with disabilities carry a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities and embassy/consulate information,” Park said.

If necessary, consider using a money belt or travel wallet to hide your valuables on your person. By taking these simple precautions, you can minimize the risk of becoming a victim of theft.

Enjoying Your Destination

Traveling to new destinations can be an exciting and fulfilling experience. It allows you to immerse yourself in different cultures, explore new sights and create lasting memories. However, while enjoying your travels, it is important to prioritize your safety and remain aware of your surroundings. By empowering yourself with knowledge and taking certain precautions, you can make the most of your travel while ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.

How To Make the Most of Your Travel

Making the most of your travel may require you to embrace certain strategies, such as researching and planning ahead for accessible destinations. To maximize your experience, it is recommended to replicate your home routine as much as possible to maintain familiarity and comfort. When it comes to outings and adventures, pace yourself and allow for relaxation to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Since additional amenities can enhance your overall travel experience, see if you can take advantage of perks and benefits from memberships or credit cards, such as access to airport lounges and travel upgrades.

Safety Tips While At Your Destination

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance your travel experience, ensure your safety and navigate your destination more effectively. A major safety tip to protect yourself financially in the event of unforeseen medical emergencies is to obtain comprehensive travel medical insurance. Next, to enjoy the trip experience, it’s a good idea to learn basic local phrases to facilitate communication and ask for help when needed. Additionally, carry an accessibility card to effectively communicate your specific needs if possible.

Organizations that Help People with Disabilities While Traveling

There are several organizations dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities while traveling. Here are a few examples:

The Disabled Travelers Guide offers comprehensive resources and information for travelers with disabilities. Its website provides guides on accessible destinations, travel tips, and a forum where users can share their experiences and advice.
The Society for Accessible Travel and Hospitality (SATH) is an organization working to promote accessibility and inclusivity in the travel and hospitality industry. It provides resources, training and advocacy for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have equal access to travel opportunities.
Accessible Travel Solutions specializes in providing accessible travel planning services for individuals with disabilities. It offers customized itineraries, accommodations research and transportation arrangements tailored to specific accessibility needs.
The National Center on Disability and Access to Education (NCDAE) focuses on ensuring equal access to education for individuals with disabilities. While its primary focus is education, its website provides valuable information on accessible technology, accommodations and beneficial resources for disabled travelers.

These organizations are dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities to explore the world with confidence. Each offers valuable resources and advocacy to enhance the travel experience for disabled individuals.

Conclusion

While traveling with disabilities can present its own set of challenges, there are ways to keep those challenges from interfering with your trip. With proactive trip research, good planning and resource utilization, individuals with disabilities can experience inclusive travel opportunities to create lasting trip memories

Our Experts

Dr. Kwangsoo Park holds the position of Associate Dean in the College of Business and is the Director of the White Lodging School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Purdue University Northwest. His research focuses on enhancing services for people with disabilities and their families in the hospitality and tourism sector. Dr. Park’s primary goal is to reduce biases associated with disabilities and improve service quality for all consumers, irrespective of their disability status.
Dr. Stefanie Benjamin serves as an Associate Professor of Retail, Hospitality, and Tourism Management at the University of Tennessee Knoxville. Her research interests revolve around social equity and critical tourism scholarship, with a specific focus on the experiences and narratives of marginalized populations. She is committed to promoting social advocacy and amplifying underrepresented voices in the tourism field through research, education and practice. As a certified qualitative researcher, she employs various methodologies, such as collective storytelling and ethnography, to explore these areas. Dr. Benjamin is also involved in content tourism research and offers improvisational theater workshops to enhance empathetic listening and creative skill development.