(MVA) — Seventh-graders at Tanapag Middle School tuned in to a message about the importance of tourism and hospitality on Wednesday, Feb. 4, with a presentation by the Marianas Tourism Education Council and the Marianas Visitors Authority at their school.
Students empathized with the true story shared of “Mr. Lee,” a self-proclaimed Saipan-lover and repeat visitor whose most recent visit to the island was met with unfriendly stray dogs and other unfortunate events.
“Everyone loves a good story, and this year we’re connecting students to the actual visitor experience through a ‘Mr. Lee,’ whose name has been changed, of course,” said MTEC Board Member Catherine Perry. “Through his recent experience, students learn a bit about our visitor demographics, how the Marianas has many of the qualities that today’s travelers are looking for, and most importantly, the important role they can play in making each visitor feel welcomed, safe, and appreciated.”
The MTEC-MVA team is visiting public schools to share about the Marianas’ leading economic driver, the industry’s impact on daily life, and how youth can contribute to its success, even at a young age. An introduction was also given to the mission and activities of MVA and the new Far From Ordinary Marianas global brand. The annual outreach initiative targets 5th, 7th, and 10th grade students with interactive presentations and activities.
Following the presentation, Perry and MVA Community Project Coordinator Jack Aranda were each surprised with a pencil portrait sketched by one of the students in attendance.
“What a delightful and Far From Ordinary thank you!” said Perry. “It’s always a pleasure to engage with the students and work to inspire them.”
MTEC is a nonprofit organization whose mission is threefold: to foster community understanding and support of the visitor industry; to educate the public, especially school students, about the value, social benefits, and economic contributions made to the community by the visitor industry; and to instill, improve, and promote the “Hafa Adai-Tirow” hospitality spirit throughout the island community.
