REDEFINING RESEARCH THROUGH INNOVATION
At UCF’s Dick Pope Institute for Tourism Studies, we redefine what’s possible by bridging academic excellence with real-world impact. As a global leader in hospitality and tourism research, the Institute cultivates transformative ideas that inform policy, empower communities, and elevate the tourism experience—locally and worldwide.
OUR IMPACT IN 2025
Global Research Leadership
Produced 197 peer-reviewed journal articles and 26 book chapters, cementing UCF’s role as a top-ranked global research powerhouse.
Fueling the Future Workforce
Supported 20 full-time Ph.D. students, delivered 8 faculty colloquiums, and guided 6 graduate-level theses and dissertations.
Worldwide Academic Engagement
Delivered 1,263 licensed training courses through global programs like Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Pioneer initiative.
Innovation That Scales
Hosted 2 international conferences in Japan, expanding Rosen College’s academic reach and collaboration.
Accelerating Grant Success
Submitted 22 grant proposals totaling $4.1M, earning 8 new awards from major sponsors and partners.
Turning Research Into Action
The Rosen Research Review translated cutting-edge studies into actionable insights for industry, policymakers, and the public.
ABOUT US
In 1979 the University of Central Florida established the Dick Pope Sr. Institute for Tourism Studies (DPI). The Institute was established to (1) conduct proprietary and public domain research, (2) disseminate information to the public at large about the contributions of the hospitality and tourism industry, especially along economic, sociological, environmental, and quality-of-life dimensions, and (3) carry out credit and non-credit educational activities.
Since 2005, DPI has secured over $1.2 million in contracts and grants for research purposes. Its extensive client list includes destination management organizations, convention and visitor bureaus, hotels, hospitals, vacation homes, restaurants and theme parks.
Furthermore, DPI has played a significant role in facilitating over $4 million in non-credit educational programs with international partners. UCF’s Rosen College doctoral students play an essential role in the Institute’s ability to meet its objectives and commitments. In addition, contracts and grants funded through DPI have been an invaluable source of external funds to support graduate assistantships for the doctoral students.
OUR VISION
To be the world’s premier laboratory of ideas and innovation in global tourism—elevating the industry through transformative research, inclusive education, and meaningful collaboration.
Guiding Principles
- Innovation with Impact – We pursue ideas that move the industry forward, combining academic rigor with real-world relevance.
- Global Collaboration – We work with partners across sectors and borders to co-create solutions that serve communities worldwide.
- Education for the Future – We empower students and professionals with the knowledge and skills to lead in a changing tourism landscape.
- Integrity & Excellence – We uphold the highest standards in our research, partnerships, and service to the industry.
- Tourism as Transformation – We believe tourism can be a force for economic development, cultural exchange, and social progress.
Our Team
Meet the visionary faculty, researchers, and industry collaborators behind the Dick Pope Institute for Tourism Studies.
Our team brings deep expertise in hospitality, education, public policy, and innovation. Together, we design programs, lead partnerships, and shape strategies that prepare learners for impact—locally and globally. Learn more about the professionals driving our mission forward:
Dr. Manuel Rivera
Director, Dick Pope Institute for Tourism Studies;
Associate Dean of Research
Dr. Sergio Alvarez
Coordinator, Dick Pope Institute for Tourism Studies;
Associate Professor
Mr. Eric Backes
Contracts and Grants Specialist
What We Do
Research
Research & Thought Leadership: We produce actionable, interdisciplinary research that informs tourism policy, business strategy, and community development.
Training & Development
Education & Capacity Building: We support student success and workforce development through applied learning, mentorship, and training programs.
Public Service
Innovation & Industry Collaboration: We engage with destination marketers, attraction operators, and government agencies to design and prototype solutions and pilot new models.
Partnership Innovation
Grant Development & Sponsored Projects: We coordinate large-scale research grants, contracts, and strategic initiatives that align with national and global tourism priorities.
Our Clients and Partners
VISITING RESEARCH FELLOWS
The Dick Pope Sr. Institute for Tourism Studies at UCF Rosen College welcomes a limited number of Visiting Research Fellows (VRFs)—established scholars from around the world who wish to engage in collaborative research, teaching, and academic exchange in the heart of Central Florida. This highly selective program provides fellows the opportunity to work alongside Rosen College faculty and students on scholarly projects, guest lectures, and thought leadership initiatives. The program was launched in response to growing global interest in Rosen College’s academic community and its leadership in tourism and hospitality research.
List of Previous Visiting Fellows
- Seza Zerman, Ph.D. Assistant Professor, Karabuk University, Safranbolu College of Tourism, Turkey
- Dr. Michelle McLeod, University of the West Indies
- Gunwoo Yoon, University of Northern Iowa
- Dr. Nikolaos Stylos Associate Professor (Reader) in Marketing and Digital Innovation University of Bristol Business School
