MTSU Alumni Summer College features tourism; registration ends May 26

MTSU Alumni Summer College promo graphic

Special tours of The Caverns in Pelham, Tennessee, and Historic Granville, Tennessee — plus unique classroom offerings — highlight the 2023 Middle Tennessee State University Alumni Summer College next month.

“Tourism — Unpacking Its Value,” will be this year’s theme for the annual event set for June 21-23 at on- and off-campus venues. And there’s still time to register, with Friday, May 26, the deadline to register at www.mtalumni.com and clicking on the “Registration” button.

Middle Tennessee State University alumnus Don Witherspoon (Class of 1964), center, poses a question during a class presentation during the 2022 Alumni Summer College. This year’s summer college will be held June 21-23 and feature various aspects of tourism. Registration remains open through Friday, May 26. (MTSU photo by Andy Heidt)

Alumni Summer College is a way for alums and friends of the university to renew acquaintances, revisit the university that’s undergone a multitude of changes through the years and explore the exciting and growing world of tourism.

Ginger Freeman, director, MTSU Office of Alumni Relations — Ginger Freeman

“We are looking forward to having alumni and friends back on campus this summer,” Alumni Relations Director Ginger Freeman said. “Alumni Summer College is such a fun time to get meet other alumni and learn something new.”

Freeman added that “participants will have the opportunity to learn more about the many different types of tourism Tennessee has to offer.”

These include historic, music and adventure and nature tourism, among others.

The Caverns in Grundy County has become a music destination known for “The Caverns Sessions” (formerly “Bluegrass Underground” on PBS stations). Freeman said Granville is a modern-day Mayberry, featuring a Mayberry-I Love Lucy Museum, the Sutton Store, Granville Museum and more.

Elizabeth Whalen, assistant professor and program coordinator for MTSU Tourism and Hospitality, will lead two class sessions, as will Sara Beth Urban, CEO and president of Hospitality TN.

Barbara Wolke, senior vice president for the Convention & Visitors Bureau of Rutherford County, alumna Katy Riddle,Ryan French and others will discuss the economic impact of tourism and music tourism, including Bonnaroo in Manchester, Tennessee, and Nashville, Tennessee/Music City USA.

Class space is limited. Tuition is $250 per person and includes tours, meals and field trip transportation.

Contact the Alumni Relations Office with any questions by calling 1-800-533-6878 or 615-898-2922.

— Randy Weiler (Randy.Weiler@mtsu.edu)