The University of Guam Tourism Awareness Group (TAG) student organization in collaboration with the Tourism Policy, Planning, and Development class will be hosting the first annual Small Islands Tourism Development Research Symposium (S.I.T.D.R.S.) on Saturday, December 2, 2017, from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the Jesus & Eugenia Leon Guerrero Business and Public Administration Building in the IT&E Lecture Hall #131 and the Multipurpose Room #129.

The purpose of this symposium is to arrange a venue where research may be shared to improve the quality of life in small islands through responsible tourism development. Professional research is important to small islands as technology, trends, environmental and global awareness constantly change the tourism industry. Small islands are greatly impacted by these developments and the knowledge shared with the community increases their support for future projects which enhances their quality of life.

Human Geographer, Amy Owen is one of the featured speakers as she will discuss about Special Challenges of Food Security and Industry in Guam, “Tourism is a major economic sector in Guam. The promotion and support of tourism depends on food security, quality and availability. Yet there are special challenges for Guam and other small island destinations.” International Tourism and Hospitality Research Student, Cristen Rios, will talk about Low Cost Carriers: Turbulence in the Tourism Industry of Guam. Former Guam Visitor’s Bureau Director, Gerry Perez will be talking about A Grounded Theory Study of Chuuk Residents’ Perceptions on How Tourism can Improve a Micronesian Island’s Economic Self-Reliance. Furthermore, several students, professors and members of the tourism community will be featured in the symposium.

There is a minimal fee of $10.00 to attend the event, which includes breakfast, lunch, and entertainment. Interested attendees may purchase tickets at the SBPA Dean’s Office on the 2nd floor from 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Please see Ms. Iris Lapid for payments on a cash basis only. We will also be selling at the door on the day of the event.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to email the symposium coordinator at uog.tag.gu@gmail.com (subject: SITDRS inquiry).