Associate Candidate, SYTA: Chris Massie

Chris Massie

TravelAdvocates

As a teenager, I aspired to pursue a career in the tour and travel industry. During my travels with my parents throughout the USA and Canada in their RV, I frequently took on the responsibility of planning our daily itineraries. In high school, I organized trips for my Future Business Leaders of America Club as well as my class senior trip. Known as “The Bus Tour Planner” in my hometown, I began arranging trips for local travel groups, garden clubs, and civic organizations.

I advanced to owning a full-service travel agency, becoming a leisure and student tour operator, and motorcoach owner. My passion for the industry further developed as I engaged in tour planning and business development for the largest tour operator in the southeast, eventually serving as the Vice President of Business Development for a major attraction. Currently, as the Director of Strategic Development at TravelAdvocates, my affection for the industry continues to grow daily.

I am deeply honored to have been selected as a candidate for a position on the SYTA Board of Directors. To serve on a board where I can contribute to its strategic direction, increase awareness and to advocate on the impact of the Student-Youth Travel Market, and expand access to global student travel experiences would be a natural progression of my dreams and goals from my 30+ years in the industry.

With unwavering dedication, I am committed to making student travel a more welcoming and accessible space for everyone. My goal is to ensure that every student has the opportunity to benefit from travel experiences that enrich their education and personal growth. By fostering an inclusive environment, we can create a stronger community that supports the aspirations and development of all its members. By working together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive, supportive community.

I have held leadership positions as the President and/or Board Chair on several industry boards and committees. Currently, I serve as Board Chair of Tennessee Tourism and Hospitality and as an active Board Member on the Pigeon Forge Tourism Advisory Board.

I would like to kindly ask for your vote to serve on the SYTA Board of Directors,