Bridging the Gap: Understanding Stakeholder Perceptions and Support Needs in Tourism Development in the West Virginia Tourism Industry

Authors

  • Susan Williams Concord University
  • Susan Robinett Concord University
  • John Sneed Concord University
  • Angelique Edwards Concord University
  • Allison Bean Concord University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/JPRA-2025-13143

Keywords:

tourism, sustainable tourism development, tourism ecosystem

Abstract

This study examined the disconnect between perceived needs of tourism stakeholders and available support structures in West Virginia. It focused on identifying sources of tourism development assistance and stakeholder perceptions of the role of Convention and Visitors Bureaus (CVBs). Although tourism scholarship offers robust conceptual frameworks, these models have not translated into practical tools for practitioners, leaving stakeholders uncertain about where to seek guidance. Using convenience and snowball sampling, a survey was administered to 187 tourism professionals across the state, exploring their relationships with businesses, support organizations, CVBs, policymakers, educators, and communities. Findings revealed that most respondents did not perceive having a strong support system for tourism-related questions or needs. This reflects a broader systemic issue: tourism is rarely understood as a holistic, interdependent ecosystem. While theory emphasizes integrated systems, stakeholder comprehension and application remain limited. Encouragingly, initiatives such as the Tourism Ecosystem Sub-Committee show promise for fostering collaboration.  

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Published

2025-12-30

Issue

Vol. 44 No. 1 (2026): Special Issue: Research Notes from the 2025 National Environment and Recreation Research Symposium

Section

Special Issue: NERR 2025

License

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