ATU Students Win ARPA Tourism Scholarship At Fort Smith Conference – Travel And Tour World

Published on October 30, 2025
Belle White and Paula Lerma from Arkansas Tech University (ATU) are recipients of the 1000 dollars student scholarship from Arkansas Recreation and Parks Association (ARPA) for their academic and extracurricular efforts in the tourism field. The ARPA scholarship has been awarded to the two students at the association’s yearly conference in Fort Smith in October. These along with other achievements help in the continued development of the tourism sector in Arkansas.
This achievement speaks to the high standards of students studying tourism at Tech University Arkansas has and speaks to the quality of the university’s tourism degree program which aims to help students acquire the required knowledge and skills to work in the tourism and recreation industry.

Tourism Scholarship Promotes Future Industry Leaders

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The ARPA scholarship is designed to encourage the next generation of tourism professionals in Arkansas, offering students a chance to further their education and career in the rapidly expanding tourism sector. Belle White, a student from Carlisle, and Paula Lerma, from Paragould, both received this scholarship in recognition of their academic achievements, passion for tourism, and leadership qualities.
The conference where the award was presented was a key event for professionals and students in the tourism industry. For White and Lerma, this opportunity was more than just an academic accolade it was a chance to connect with industry leaders, learn from experts, and gain insights into current tourism trends. The conference served as a vital platform for students to explore potential career paths, network with professionals, and gain hands-on experience through volunteer service.

ARPA Conference Offers Networking and Learning Opportunities

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Attending the ARPA conference provided a unique opportunity for White, Lerma, and their fellow ATU students to immerse themselves in the practical side of tourism. Arkansas’s tourism landscape is thriving, with the state focusing on increasing its visibility as a prime tourist destination. At the conference, students gained invaluable insights into the latest developments in the tourism industry, including sustainable tourism practices, digital marketing strategies, and ways to attract more visitors to the region.
Luis Alvarado from Benton and Georgia Brothers from Ola were also part of the delegation representing Arkansas Tech University at the conference. Alongside their classmates White and Lerma, Alvarado and Brothers engaged with tourism professionals, participated in workshops, and contributed to discussions about the future of tourism in the state. They were accompanied by Dr Jay Post, an Associate Professor of Tourism at ATU, who guided them through the event.

Tourism Growth in Arkansas and its Economic Impact

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Arkansas has long been a state rich in natural beauty and diverse attractions, with destinations such as Hot Springs, Little Rock, and the Ozark Mountains drawing millions of visitors each year. The tourism sector plays a pivotal role in the state’s economy, contributing significantly to job creation, economic development, and the preservation of natural and cultural resources.
The growing importance of the tourism industry in Arkansas is reflected in the state’s investment in education and training for students in the field. Initiatives like the ARPA scholarship help foster new talent, which is crucial to sustaining and enhancing the state’s tourism economy.

Arkansas Tech University’s Role in Shaping Future Tourism Professionals

At Arkansas Tech University, the tourism degree program is designed to equip students with the skills needed to succeed in various roles within the tourism and hospitality industries. The university’s curriculum covers a broad range of subjects, including event planning, hospitality management, sustainable tourism, and marketing. By participating in professional events like the ARPA conference, ATU students gain a competitive edge, expanding their industry knowledge and establishing connections with potential employers.
The recognition of White and Lerma by the Arkansas Recreation and Parks Association serves as a testament to the high standards of education provided at Arkansas Tech University. It highlights the institution’s commitment to preparing its students to become future leaders in the tourism sector.

Looking Forward to the Future of Tourism in Arkansas

Arkansas will also rest on their next professionals to help advance its tourism industries. The target geographies of this tourism have to do with the advancements in technology and sustainable practices of the rest of the world. The ARPA and White and Lerma’s scholarships specifically whilst help funding their education also seek to help encourage the students to mentee along with the developing pace of the tourism industries in the Arkans regions.

Belle White and Paula Lerma won’t be the last achievers either. The amount of positive feedback and recognition the students and other attendees of the ATU get have and will help shape the future of tourism in Arkansas. The future seems to have lot of promise to help guide the entire tourism of Arkansas as the advancements in technology continue to flow in.

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Tags: Arkansas Tech University, Arkansas tourism, ARPA scholarship, tourism conference, Tourism industry

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