Michigan's investment in tourism helps Grand Valley students

ALLENDALE, Mich. — A national advertising campaign was announced to promote travel and tourism in Michigan at the annual Michigan Governor's Conference on Tourism this week. The largest travel promotion budget in state history of $30 million was also unveiled.

Chair of Grand Valley State University’s Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management Paul Stansbie attended the conference in Detroit and said the announcement is good news for students and graduates.

“As a department that serves students who are developing skills and competencies to manage tourism businesses, we see this generating increased demand for hospitality and tourism services throughout Michigan,” said Stansbie. “At a time when economic news is bleak, this announcement offers optimism for increased growth and job creation which will serve our students and graduates into the future.”

Stansbie said officials at the conference pointed out that tourism is Michigan’s third largest industry, generating more than $18 billion annually. Officials said tourism generates $874 million in state taxes and employs 192,000 workers statewide; every dollar Michigan spends on out-of-state advertising generates $2.86 for state coffers.

For more information, contact Paul Stansbie at (616) 331-3160 or GVSU News and Information at (616) 331-2221.