CSUMB’s Paige Viren named to national tourism board

By Mark Muckenfuss

Paige Viren, executive director of Cal State Monterey Bay’s Sustainable Hospitality Management program, has been appointed to a two-year term on the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board. The board reports to the Secretary of Commerce on government policies and programs that affect travel and tourism in the United States. 

It’s the latest in a series of high-profile roles for Viren. Last year, she was named to a spot on the California Travel Association Board of Directors. She’s also involved with such organizations as the CSU Hospitality Alliance and See Monterey, an agency promoting local tourism. 

In a letter notifying her of her appointment, then U.S. Secretary of Commerce 

Gina Raimondo said Viren’s background made her a good candidate.

“Your experience will be critical as the board provides the Department of Commerce with advice and counsel on opportunities and challenges that affect the U.S. travel and tourism industry,” Raimondo wrote. “The department appreciates your willingness to devote your time and efforts to the board.”

Viren said she is bringing a unique voice to the group of 32 advisors.

“I’m the only university representative on the board," she said. "Initially, my focus will be on listening and learning, but over time, I aim to contribute by bringing the academic perspective into the conversation.”

Part of that perspective, she said, is the need to shift the narrative and highlight the tourism industry as a source of fulfilling, well-compensated, and dynamic career opportunities. She hopes to promote the role of programs, such as CSUMB’s, in preparing students for those careers.

“The Secretary of Commerce recognizes the growing importance of workforce development and the need to highlight tourism jobs as good jobs,” Viren said. “That aligns closely with our mission as well. I believe my role in academia offers a unique opportunity to strengthen the connections between education and the tourism industry.”

She said being on the board means more opportunities. She has already worked to expand the presence of students at the CalTravel board meetings. In February, she will take five students to the organization’s gathering in San Francisco. They will not only get a tour of the city, she said, but will have the opportunity to network with industry leaders from throughout the state.

She’s hoping for similar benefits by being on the national advisory board. 

“For me, it raises the profile of Cal State Monterey Bay and the CSU system,” she said. “I know it’s going to open doors for our students.”