After a prosperous career in the hospitality industry, Dr. Dana Clark joined Appalachian State University’s Hospitality and Tourism Management program in 1991. He is the only individual to win all three top tourism honors in North Carolina: the Barentine Special Achievement Award, the Tourism Excellence Award for Public Service, and the Tourism Excellence Award for an Individual.
He previously worked as a vice president of convention development at the Charlotte Convention & Visitors Bureau and for Holiday Inn for approximately 10 years.
This prior experience forms the base of what he does as a professor. He is able to teach students the theory behind the curriculum but also give examples based on his years of experience in the field.
Dr. Clark encourages his students to network, and works to help the department bring multiple industry leaders to campus each semester. Clark also keeps a Facebook page with current students and alumni of the program helping them share contacts and experiences.
“Watching my students become successful – that is one of the greatest pleasures in my life,” Clark said.
