CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The West Virginia Department of Tourism announced that applications for the Governor’s School for Tourism will close on Friday, May 9, for freshman and sophomore high school students who wish to attend.
Students selected for the program will tour nearly 600 miles across West Virginia’s scenic landscapes, learning about the tourism and hospitality industries through hands-on experiences.
“Governor’s School for Tourism (GST) is one of seven fully funded Governor’s Schools in our state,” said WV Governor’s Schools State Coordinator Dustin Lambert.
“The WVDE is honored to partner with the Department of Tourism, Marshall University, and WVU to host this versatile learning experience in our Appalachian state where students are sure to witness our rich culture, stunning geography, and advancing economy. We believe GST to be the most unique summer residential program in the country!”
The program will begin on West Virginia Day, June 20, and run through June 29.
During the 10-day experience, students will visit outdoor adventure areas, state parks, historic sites, iconic landmarks, and more.
As part of the program, students will see West Virginia from the perspective of a visitor and help the Department of Tourism develop promotional strategies for the following year.
After completing the program, students will serve as the Governor’s official tourism ambassadors for the year.
One freshman or sophomore student from each county, along with one student from each of the state’s five charter schools, will be selected.
The Governor’s Schools of West Virginia programs require a competitive application process, and students will be taught by esteemed college faculty. Tuition, room, board, activities, and instructional materials are fully funded by state resources.
“The Governor’s School for Tourism provides students with an exciting look into the tourism career paths here for them at home,” said West Virginia Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby.
“In addition, students will have the opportunity to experience our beautiful state as a tourist while rafting on the New River, riding on the Hatfield-McCoy Trails, staying at state park lodges and much more. It’s our hope that they’ll finish this experience loving their state a little bit more.”
The curriculum and educational components will be led by West Virginia University’s John Chambers College of Business and Marshall University’s College of Education and Professional Development.
The two colleges will play a key role in planning, developing the curriculum, and providing hands-on learning opportunities.
To learn more or apply, visit the West Virginia Department of Education’s website. Applications must be submitted by Friday, May 9, 2025.
For a look at the 2024 Governor’s School for Tourism, click here.
To schedule an interview with 2024 Governor’s School for Tourism students, contact Lauren Bodnar at lauren.bodnar@wv.gov.
