The document outlines the goals and mission of the WCU Regional Leaders Summit held on November 12, 2014, aimed at enhancing tourism in the NC Smoky Mountains. It details the organization's history, core values, and functions including visitor services, marketing, and advocacy for regional tourism. Additionally, it highlights ongoing initiatives and educational programs to support tourism development in the area.

1. +
WCU Regional Leaders Summit
November 12,2014
Competitive Regional Tourism

2. +
Organizational Vision
 Mission Statement: To increase visitation to the NC
Smoky Mountains and assist in the development of the
region’s tourism economy
 Mantra: Competitive Regional Tourism
 Core Values
 Service
 Integrity
 Diversity
 Excellence
 Inclusiveness
 Progress

3. +
Background & History
 Established in 1987 – 7 counties and EBCI
– 11 members (now around 300)
 Hwy. 441 Visitor Center- Built in 1990
Partnership with DOT & NCGA – visitors
around a 98,000 per year
 Production of first “regional” travel guide
and first co-op advertising in NC
 Advocacy - federal, state and local
 Blue Ridge National Heritage Area
 NC Rural Tourism Development Grant
 Secured millions for regional marketing
and branding of the NC Smokies

4. +
Organizational Goals
 Provide quality information and
customer service to visitors at the
Visitor Center
 Maintain a viable, effective and
research-based regional tourism
marketing and multi-media advertising
campaign
 Provide effective governmental affairs
representation for the region’s tourism
industry
 Serve as a resource for the members of
the organization

5. +
Core Function Areas Supporting
 Visitor Center Operation
 Regional Destination Marketing
 Travel Guide, Co-Op Programs, Website
 Tourism Research
 Ongoing Research Program
 Governmental Affairs /Advocacy
 Federal, State and Local
 Tourism Product Development
 Smoky Mountain Blueways Initiative
 Educational Programs
 Workshops – Example: Roger Brooks Series
 Seminars
 Increased Revenues
 Human Talent – Staff
 Research Partner
 Private Partners
 Industry Experts

6. +
Questions?
Contact Info: betty@visitsmokies.org
Website: visitsmokies.org