Tiffany Rhodes
Associate Professor
JWU Faculty Since 2016
Tiffany Rhodes has a unique background that includes the science field, humanitarian volunteerism, and decades of work in the adventure travel industry.
Upon receiving her bachelor of science degree in biology, Rhodes moved to Kenya, Africa, to study abroad as a biologist researching elephant and rhinoceros populations through Boston University. While working and traveling in Kenya and Uganda, she became deeply affected by the vast abject poverty she witnessed. She also became aware of the power of ecotourism to foster and fuel conservation practices and economic growth.
Upon her return to the states, she worked as an educator for an outdoor education program, a public school science teacher, and an adventure guide throughout the continental US. During that time she also completed a doctoral degree in cross-cultural studies with an emphasis on war, peace and reconciliation, and engaged in humanitarian work in war-torn areas including Sudan, Rwanda, Uganda, Bosnia, Croatia, Serbia, and Nicaragua. These diverse experiences confirmed her belief that education and travel are two of the most powerful tools for transforming one’s life and perspective. This belief has motivated her to dedicate her life to using education and travel to change the world.
Through the years, Rhodes’ expertise in the travel and tourism industry has led her to more than 65 countries around the world and throughout the continental US as a leader, manager, and marketer of adventure travel, cultural heritage, and ecotourism expeditions. In addition to traveling the world, she is a certified mountain bike guide, coach and sponsored downhill racer.
Certifications:
Boston University, Certificate in African Ecology and Research
Studied sustainable management of wildlife in the National Parks in Kenya
Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE)
Sustainable Tourism Destination Management Certification 2018, George Washington University
Global Sustainable Tourism Development Certification 2017, Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC)
Education
- Doctorate in Ministry, Cross-Cultural Studies, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
- M.A., Pastoral Studies, Multnomah University
- B.S., Biology, Millersville University of Pennsylvania
Teaching Interests
- Sustainable Tourism Development
- Adventure, Nature and Sport-Based Tourism
- Ecotourism
- Recreation Development
Courses
- Adventure, Sport and Nature-Based Tourism
- Special Topics in Adventure Resort Management
- Ecotourism
- International Policies of Tourism
- Dynamics of Tourism and Sustainability
- Tour Management Operations
Professional Affiliations
- Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC)
- Center for Responsible Travel (CREST)
- Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA)
- Member of the Education and Research Working Group for the Global Sustainable Tourism Council
- Academic Affiliate for the Center for Responsible Travel
- Advisor on the Rhode Island Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) in 2019