RUSSELLVILLE — Arkansas Tech University associate professor of tourism Susan West has been selected as the winner of the 2026 Arkansas Hospitality Association Stars of the Industry educator of the year award.
“I love everyone in this room,” said West upon receiving the award. “Thank you for your support through internships, serving on our boards and creating opportunities for Arkansas Tech University students. I am so honored to be able to teach hospitality and tourism to the next generation. I was making jokes tonight, always a bridesmaid, never a bride. While I have been a bride for 36 years, tonight I am a bride of tourism.”
Stars of the Industry is an annual awards event hosted by the Arkansas Hospitality Association. This year’s event took place on Oct. 15 at Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff.
West has served on the ATU faculty since 2008. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin University and a master’s degree from the University of Arkansas.
In 2023, West graduated from the three-year Southeast Tourism Society Marketing College program and earned certification as a travel marketing professional. She has served as a member of the Southeast Tourism Society Board of Directors and the Arkansas Tourism Development Foundation Board of Directors.
Learn more about the ATU tourism program at www.atu.edu/business/tourism.
