{"id":492,"date":"2019-05-17T13:51:55","date_gmt":"2019-05-17T13:51:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/syta.org\/summit2020\/?page_id=492"},"modified":"2026-10-21T09:18:22","modified_gmt":"2026-10-21T13:18:22","slug":"education","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/syta.org\/summit2027\/education\/","title":{"rendered":"EDUCATION"},"content":{"rendered":"[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_fullwidth_image src=”https:\/\/syta.org\/summit2027\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/03\/SYTASummit27-WebHeader-Education-scaled.jpg” title_text=”SYTASummit27-WebHeader-Education” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_fullwidth_image][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||4px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.9″ text_font_size=”18px” text_line_height=”2em” header_3_line_height=”1.3em” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” min_height=”56px” custom_margin=”||2px|||” custom_padding=”||13px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

Learn. Connect. Lead.<\/strong><\/h1>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.9″ text_font_size=”18px” text_line_height=”1.9em” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” min_height=”56px” custom_margin=”||18px|||” custom_padding=”6px||13px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

The SYTA Summit brings together leaders in student and youth travel for meaningful conversations, fresh perspectives, and practical education designed to move your business forward.<\/p>\n

From emerging technology and legal considerations to destination insights, leadership strategies, and industry collaboration, Summit education is designed to help you navigate today’s challenges, explore new opportunities, and bring valuable ideas back to your organization.<\/p>\n

Explore the education program below. Additional details and speakers will be announced as the program develops.<\/em><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row disabled_on=”on|on|on” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||4px|||” disabled=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_margin=”-18px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Keynote Speakers\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#7a7a7a” _builder_version=”4.24.3″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-16px||||false|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ disabled_on=”on|on|on” _builder_version=”4.27.6″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”10px|||||” disabled=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/syta.runengine.com\/summit2026\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/07\/Stacey-Hanke-SUmmit26Headshot.jpg” title_text=”Stacey Hanke-SUmmit26Headshot” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||16px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Stacey Hanke<\/strong><\/h2>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_margin=”-5px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Wednesday, January 21<\/span>, 2026
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Coming from an entrepreneurial upbringing, Stacey learned early on how we consistently show up and interact determines our success in our organizations and in our lives. Starting with a career in voice-over, she quickly realized how every word matters – every movement of your body matters and every sound you make matters (volume, tone and inflection). All of these combined determines who listens, who stays connected with you, who believes you and then acts on your recommendation.<\/span><\/p>\n

Stacey then jumped into the corporate world as a trainer for Fortune 500 companies, training every possible topic from motivation to customer service to leadership. She traveled internationally researching the difference between a leader who is influential versus a leader who\u2019s simply a good communicator.<\/span><\/p>\n

Today, Stacey is the CEO of a highly sought-after consulting and training company where she mentors leaders who want to ensure their employees perceive them as an influential leader \u2013 those who are working towards a promotion \u2013 and sales professionals to ensure their message and style resonates with their clients.<\/span><\/p>\n

An inductee into the Speaker Hall of Fame, she has been a featured guest on media outlets including: The New York Times, Forbes, Entrepreneur, Thrive, SmartMoney Magazine, The Economist and Business Week. Her client list is vast: FedEx, McDonalds, Google, Kraft Heinz, Nationwide, American Express, Discover and Oracle. Her knowledge leading diverse, high-level teams makes her a sought-after speaker and consultant and she has inspired thousands around the world through her ability to connect with an audience and one-on-one.<\/span><\/p>\n

With over 20 years of studying influence across cultures and industries, leading large corporate teams makes her the perfect fit for organizations large and small who are ready to influence on a consistent basis. Clients hire Stacey because of her implementable strategies that help leaders get to the point, communicate with confidence and credibility, to build trust and deliver messages that drive action, creating lasting results.<\/span><\/p>\n

Click here to read her full bio.\u00a0<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

See her in action<\/strong><\/a><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-65px|||||” custom_padding=”16px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”15px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_margin=”|auto||230px||”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider color=”#7a7a7a” _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”22px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” divider_style=”dashed” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||16px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2027<\/strong><\/h2>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#7a7a7a” _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”22px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” max_width=”20%” module_alignment=”left” sticky_enabled=”0″ divider_style=”dashed”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-27px||46px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ header_4_text_color=”#002F5F”]

Destination Spotlight & Opening Keynote<\/strong><\/h4>\n
8:15 AM \u2013 10:15 AM<\/h5>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-46px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ text_text_color=”#002F5F”]

Discover the Island of Hawai<\/strong>\u02bbi<\/strong><\/h4>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-30px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]

Start the morning with an introduction to the Island of Hawai\u02bbi and the experiences, destinations, and opportunities it offers student and youth travel groups. Learn what makes the island a distinctive destination and discover ways to bring its culture, history, and experiences to life for young travelers.<\/p>\n

The morning will also feature an inspiring keynote and an opportunity to hear from local leadership. Gain fresh perspectives, connect with the destination, and take away ideas that can inspire the way you lead and grow your organization.<\/p>\n

Additional details and keynote speaker announcement coming soon.<\/em><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#7a7a7a” _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”22px||27px||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” max_width=”20%” module_alignment=”left” sticky_enabled=”0″ divider_style=”dashed”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-12px||46px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ header_4_text_color=”#002F5F”]

Travel Law Is Never Boring: An Update on Issues That Matter to You<\/strong><\/h4>\n
11:15 AM \u2013 12:15 PM<\/h5>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-46px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ text_text_color=”#002F5F”]

Speaker: Jeff Ment<\/strong><\/h4>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-30px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]

The legal landscape is constantly evolving, and travel industry leaders need to understand how emerging issues can impact their organizations, employees, and day-to-day operations.<\/p>\n

This session will explore key legal considerations affecting tour operators and suppliers, including the evolving use of AI in the workplace, HR and employment matters, and other emerging issues travel leaders should have on their radar.<\/p>\n

Led by experienced industry attorney Jeff Ment, the discussion will go beyond the basics to highlight potential risks, common pitfalls, and practical considerations that can help travel professionals make informed decisions and stay ahead of legal challenges.<\/p>\n

Attendees will leave with a better understanding of the issues to watch and the questions they should be asking within their own organizations.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#7a7a7a” _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”22px||27px||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” max_width=”20%” module_alignment=”left” sticky_enabled=”0″ divider_style=”dashed”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-12px||46px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ header_4_text_color=”#002F5F”]

AI & Optimization: Turning Possibilities Into Practical Solutions<\/strong><\/h4>\n
1:15 PM \u2013 2:30 PM<\/h5>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-46px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ text_text_color=”#002F5F”]

Speaker: Jason Reckers<\/strong><\/h4>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-30px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]

Artificial intelligence is changing the way businesses operate, communicate, and serve their customers. But how can travel organizations move beyond the conversation and put AI to work in meaningful ways?<\/p>\n

This interactive workshop will explore practical applications of AI that tour operators and suppliers can take back to their organizations and begin implementing. Through an introduction to emerging opportunities, real-world examples, and open discussion, participants will explore how AI can support everyday productivity, improve customer experiences, strengthen marketing efforts, and streamline business operations.<\/p>\n

Topics may include AI visibility and discoverability, team adoption and change management, customer service applications, workflow automation, AI agents, and measuring return on investment.<\/p>\n

Bring your questions, share your experiences, and learn from fellow industry leaders as we explore how to make AI work for your business.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#7a7a7a” _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”22px||27px||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” max_width=”20%” module_alignment=”left” sticky_enabled=”0″ divider_style=”dashed”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-12px||46px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ header_4_text_color=”#002F5F”]

Tour Operator & Sponsor Round Tables | Session I<\/strong><\/h4>\n
3:00 PM \u2013 4:30 PM<\/h5>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-30px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]

The Tour Operator and Sponsor Round Tables provide dedicated opportunities for tour operators and sponsors to connect, exchange ideas, and build meaningful business relationships.<\/p>\n

Tour Operators are expected to participate in both scheduled round table sessions, meeting with the participating sponsors assigned to each session. Your engagement and participation are an important part of making these conversations valuable for everyone involved.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#7a7a7a” _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”22px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” divider_style=”dashed” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||16px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

THURSDAY, JANUARY 21, 2027<\/strong><\/h2>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#7a7a7a” _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”22px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” max_width=”20%” module_alignment=”left” sticky_enabled=”0″ divider_style=”dashed”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-27px||46px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ header_4_text_color=”#002F5F”]

Leadership in Times of Crisis: Protecting What Matters When Pressure Hits<\/strong><\/h4>\n
8:15 AM \u2013 10:00 AM<\/h5>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-46px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ text_text_color=”#002F5F”]

Moderator: Greg Takehara<\/strong><\/h4>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-30px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]

The travel industry is being tested from multiple directions at once, including climate disruption, economic pressure, rapid technological change, geopolitical instability, and natural disasters. While the words “recovery” and “rebound” are often used in times of crisis, what they mean can look very different depending on the destination, organization, and circumstances.<\/p>\n

Moderated by Greg Takehara, this interactive session will explore what it means to lead through uncertainty, make difficult decisions, and remain aligned with your organization’s values when circumstances change. Through a panel discussion featuring industry perspectives and real-world experiences, followed by facilitated scenarios and group interaction, participants will consider what leaders must protect, what may need to change, and how to navigate competing priorities when pressure is high.<\/p>\n

The conversation will challenge attendees to think beyond simply rebuilding and consider how today’s decisions can shape a stronger, more resilient future for their organizations and the travel industry.<\/p>\n

Format:<\/strong> Panel discussion followed by facilitated scenarios and group interaction.<\/p>\n

Additional panelist details coming soon.<\/em><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#7a7a7a” _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”22px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” max_width=”20%” module_alignment=”left” sticky_enabled=”0″ divider_style=”dashed”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-27px||46px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ header_4_text_color=”#002F5F”]

Stop Guessing, Start Strategizing: A Social Media Workshop for Tour Operators and Suppliers<\/strong><\/h4>\n
10:45 AM \u2013 12:15 PM<\/h5>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-46px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ text_text_color=”#002F5F”]

Speaker: Sarah Benoit, Learn Tourism<\/strong><\/h4>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.9″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-30px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″ text_text_color=”#000000″]

Most tourism businesses know they need a stronger social media strategy. The real challenge is knowing where to start and finding the time to actually build one.<\/p>\n

This hands-on workshop guides tour operators and suppliers through a practical three-step process: understanding your competitive landscape and what makes your business different, listening to what your data and customers are already telling you, and building an action plan you can implement as soon as you return to the office.<\/p>\n

Whether you’re just getting started, feeling stuck, or already seeing results but want to be more intentional, you’ll leave with a clearer strategy and actionable ideas for moving forward.<\/p>\n

What We’ll Explore:<\/strong><\/p>\n