Research Impact is a series that pulls back the curtain of IU Research, showcasing the faculty creating, innovating and advancing knowledge that improves communities and changes lives.
From a global pandemic to natural disasters, the tourism and hospitality industry has faced considerable challenges in recent years. Indiana University's Becky Liu-Lastres is helping industry professionals better prepare for such disruptions to their business, while ensuring the health and well-being of their employees and visiting tourists.
Liu-Lastres is an associate professor in the Department of Tourism, Event and Sport Management in the IU School of Health and Human Sciences in Indianapolis. Her research operates at the intersection of crisis communications management, workforce development, and resilience and sustainable development.
Question: What is the goal of your research?
Answer: My overall goal is to ensure the health, safety and well-being of all key stakeholders in tourism and hospitality. By understanding how risk and crisis issues are being managed and how these practices affect how employees make choices about their career, I'm working to build a more adaptive, sustainable and crisis-resilient environment and culture.
More broadly speaking, I hope my research will lead to more societal conversations about the future of work, economic resilience and sustainable workforce development in this time of uncertainty.
Q: Why is it important to create more resilient tourism practices?
A: Resilience is about how quickly and effectively we can bounce back from a disruption. The faster you do, the more sustainable and successful you will be in the long run.
Resilience is connected to your risk and crisis management efforts. Many practitioners within this industry are revenue driven, focusing on the excitement of the business without considering possible disruptions. It's important to take a proactive approach to these situations. That does not always mean having a fully comprehensive plan in place, but they can have resources allocated as an emergency fund. Doing so not only helps in the short-term but can also help the business navigate through uncertainties and reconnect with customers and employees.
Q: What excites you about the research you do?
A: I am proud that we are bringing attention to issues that are important within the tourism and hospitality industry and creating knowledge that will help improve business practices.
We have helped employers look at how to respond to ongoing social issues. We have helped practitioners think through crisis management issues so they can make more appropriate decisions to prepare for the long-term. We have worked with the Society for Hospitality and Foodservice Management to better understand employee happiness and well-being. We are creating real impact in the industry.
That desire to make positive change has shaped how I approach both my research and engagement with my students. It reminds me that academic work isn't just about producing papers or analyzing data; it's about creating a tangible difference in the world.
Q: How are you working to train future employees in the tourism and hospitality industry?
A: I really enjoy working with my students, who make IU a truly inspiring place to work and conduct research. They are very passionate and bring fresh perspectives and curiosity. Our interactions have shown me the importance of training this future workforce.
I believe learning extends beyond the classroom, and I engage my students in a lot of my research work. My goal is to inspire their creativity, empower them to think critically and help them see how their work can have real-world impact. Through it, they are developing more critical thinking skills, gaining hands-on experiences and contributing to meaningful discussions in the field.
Q: How does your department engage with the community?
A: We provide students with many opportunities to engage with local communities and foundations. My colleagues are including students in projects with Visit Indy and the Indianapolis 500 Festival, and my class works closely with Discover Boone County. By offering these kinds of innovative teaching experiences, we are able to give back to the community and help our students become involved in the community. It's a unique way for them to learn by doing.
Q: What advice do you have for people planning to travel for spring break and summer vacations?
A: I encourage them to not only stay safe, but to also truly embrace the opportunity to rest and rejuvenate.
Whether they're traveling for leisure or work, being prepared and knowledgeable of local risks, following local safety guidelines and staying aware of the surroundings can make a huge difference in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip. And at the same time, there is real value in taking a break. There are a lot of uncertainties in our world right now, and everything is moving at a fast pace, and we often underestimate the importance of rest. Vacation time isn't just a luxury; it's essential for our mental health, productivity and long-term resilience.
