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Stephanie Hays
Inspiring people to travel and helping them get going.
Professional Background
Stephanie Hays is a seasoned tourism specialist, bringing with her a wealth of international experience gained from working with established companies, grassroots organizations, NGOs, and social businesses. Her extensive career encompasses various critical areas including marketing, operations and logistics, product development, partnerships, and team management. This multifaceted background enables her to contribute significantly to the tourism industry by leveraging the experience cultivated through diverse and impactful roles.
Throughout her career, Stephanie has been deeply passionate about using travel and tourism as a vehicle for development, striving to create positive societal impacts through her work in the field. Her diverse experiences convey a commitment to sustainability and community engagement within the tourism sector, making her a well-respected figure in the industry. She has held a number of notable roles, including her position as the Director of Brand Experience at Chattanooga Tourism Co., where she successfully enhanced the visibility and appeal of the region. Additionally, she has been instrumental in promoting inclusive tourism through initiatives like Free Walk Chattanooga, which she founded to foster community-driven tourism experiences.
Stephanie's creativity also shines through her work as a content creator for the project Steph and Pete, where she shared informative and engaging travel content designed to inspire people to explore new destinations. As a former Travel Advisor, she successfully guided clients by curating personalized travel experiences tailored to their desires and needs. Her entrepreneurial spirit is evident in her leadership roles, including her tenure as CEO at Reality Tours & Travel, where she demonstrated her ability to steer organizations toward successful outcomes, fostering partnerships that benefit both travelers and local communities.
Education and Achievements
Stephanie's educational background is as impressive as her professional accomplishments. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Individualized Study with a concentration in Intercultural Studies from New York University, where she gained a foundational understanding of cross-cultural communication and international tourism practices. Building upon this robust background, she pursued a Master’s in International Tourism and Development at London Metropolitan University. Her studies equipped her with the analytical skills and theoretical frameworks needed to address the complexities of tourism in a global context.
In addition to her degrees, Stephanie completed an Academic Study Abroad year at the University of Amsterdam, further enriching her understanding of world cultures and tourism dynamics. The insights gained from her diverse educational experiences profoundly influence her approach to tourism and community development.
Notable Roles and Contributions
Over the years, Stephanie has contributed to various organizations and initiatives within the tourism sector. With her role as Project Director at Startup Week Chattanooga, she fostered innovation and entrepreneurship within the local community. Her tenure as a Marketing Executive at G Adventures allowed her to promote sustainable travel options and impactful itineraries that empower local economies. Additionally, as a Researcher/Consultant for Banglanatak, she explored the intersection of culture and tourism, helping to enhance travel experiences that respect and celebrate local customs.
Stephanie's commitment to working with NGOs is exemplified through her role as an Events and Fundraising Organizer for Tourism Concern, where she focused on advocating for ethical travel practices that prioritize the welfare of local communities. Her teaching experiences in China, as an English Teacher at Shanghai World Foreign Language Primary School and WeiLan Montessori Kindergarten, further demonstrate her ability to connect with diverse populations and share the joy of intercultural exchange.
From leading camps with CISV to working as a Production Intern at National Geographic Television International, Stephanie has consistently showcased her passion for storytelling and cultural exchange. These experiences contribute to her holistic understanding of the tourism landscape, empowering her to operate effectively in a variety of contexts and serve various stakeholders.
Achievements
- Director of Brand Experience at Chattanooga Tourism Co., enhancing regional visibility
- Founder of Free Walk Chattanooga, promoting community-driven tourism
- CEO of Reality Tours & Travel, leading impactful tourism initiatives
- Marketing Executive at G Adventures, advocating for sustainable travel
- Successful Travel Advisor with a focus on personalized travel experiences
- Content Creator for Steph and Pete, developing engaging travel content
