Page 50 - South Mississippi Living - June, 2016

LEISURE southern hospitality COAST
CHAMPIONS
HOSPITALITY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
Coast Champions program trains front-line hospitality employees
story by Kelsey Sunderman
As the Hospitality State, Mississippi is known for its charm. But what is the source of the warm
and welcoming atmosphere that has become so indicative of South Mississippi? Some would say it stems from the Southern heritage, others from the cultural and historical roots. Still others would
argue that part of what makes the area so amiable is the heart for hospitality the people display.
Hospitality plays a vital role in the success of the Mississippi
Gulf Coast as a tourism destination. Thanks to the dedication and leadership of organizations such as Visit Mississippi Gulf Coast,
the area and its workforce are constantly being improved and perfected. The Coast Champions Hospitality Development Program in particular brings front-line employees together to learn about the many wonderful assets the Gulf Coast has to offer, with the overall objective being to enhance visitor experience.
“Coast Champions is a one-hour hospitality development program offering information regarding the region’s unique offerings for visitors and resources available to better assist travelers,” said Jessica Knesal, destination services manager for Visit Mississippi Gulf Coast. “Anyone who completes the training course will receive a certificate of completion, a Biloxi/Ocean Springs museum pass
to six different sites, a Coast Champion lapel pin, and a Coast Champion mason jar mug.”
Participants who complete the program will not only gain invaluable insight into the world of hospitality and customer service, but also have the opportunity to share what they have learned with their colleagues. “The Coast Champions program provides hospitality workers who are on the front-line of tourism the necessary training tools to expose visitors to a delightful and wonderful experience on the Mississippi Gulf Coast,” said Bobbie
50 SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living • June 2016
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