Dick Pope, Sr. Institute for Tourism Studies

The mission of the Dick Pope Sr. Institute for Tourism Studies is to improve the quality of the tourism product and increase the benefits of tourism for the industry, state, and local community. To this end the Institute is involved in a variety of research projects and educational programs.

The Institute’s research includes the collection, development, and dissemination of information relevant to the tourism and hospitality industry in the areas of marketing, consumer behavior and visitor satisfaction, feasibility, economic, motivation, and forecasting. Some of the Institute’s patrons include tourism promotion agencies at the state and local levels; tourism development commissions; professional associations; and private enterprises such as attractions, hotels, resorts, restaurants and food-service establishments, ground and air transportation companies, travel agencies and tour operators, and other related businesses. The Institute devotes significant efforts to educating the public about the tourism industry in Florida and internationally, and about its contribution to the social and economic welfare of the community at large.