Rich Harrill, Ph.D.
International Tourism Research Institute Director
Research Professor
School of Hospitality and Tourism Management
College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management
Carnegie Foundation-Recognized Research and Community Engagement
The Carnegie Foundation has recognized the university with top classification — R1 university — for “very high research activity.” In addition, South Carolina is one of few public universities that has also earned Elective Community Engagement Classification, a prestigious designation recognizing universities with strong community relationships.
The mission of the International Tourism Research Institute is to provide innovative tourism assistance to communities, development organizations, agencies, and businesses. We advocate for the tourism industry, focusing on tourism-related issues, providing credible data, and promoting the industry as a globally viable economic development strategy.
Our Clients
The institute serves economic development organizations, city and regional planners, resort and community developers, convention and visitors bureaus, chambers of commerce, local governments, national governments, regional development organizations, and local, state, federal, and international agencies. It also provides services to individual businesses on a fee-service basis. Proposals for project work are free-of-charge.
Get in Touch
For more information about the International Tourism Research Institute, please contact director Rich Harrill, Ph.D. You can also learn more about our services and how to work with us on our website and view the extensive research done by director Harrill.