UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Lauren Duffy, head of the Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management (RPTM) Department, and Derrick Taff, Suzie and Allen Martin Professor, have been honored as fellows at the Academy of Leisure Sciences (TALS). This recognition will be celebrated at the upcoming TALS 2026 conference in Philadelphia.
The RPTM department at Penn State has a history of excellence, with past distinguished fellows including names like Geoffrey Godbey and Debbie Kerstetter.
Lauren Duffy: A Leader in Sustainable Tourism
Duffy’s research dives deep into tourism, leisure behavior, and sustainability. She focuses on how equity and power dynamics shape tourism and community-based planning. Her work also looks at critical issues like food systems and the relationships between residents and tourists.
In 2022-23, Duffy served as a U.S. Fulbright Scholar in Saint Lucia. There, she researched how tourism policies affect workers’ well-being in the informal sector. She also plays an integral role in Tourism RESET, a collaborative effort aimed at tackling social inequities in the tourism industry.
In 2020, she received both the Excellence in Teaching Award and the Innovation in Teaching Award from TALS. Duffy is proud to represent RPTM. She stated, “It is an honor to be recognized as a fellow of TALS, an organization that empowers educators and researchers.”
Derrick Taff: Champion of Well-being and Nature
Taff’s work focuses on communication strategies that enhance human and environmental health, particularly in protected areas. He aims to shift how people perceive natural spaces, promoting social and ecological well-being.
His research interests include nature-based recreation and the well-being of military service members. Taff has been involved with Leave No Trace since 2009 and serves as their science adviser. In 2023, he worked with the organization and previously held roles with the National Park Service.
Taff expressed gratitude for his recognition, saying, “I am extremely honored by this award and look forward to continuing the legacy of applied, meaningful science.”
The Bigger Picture
Research like Duffy’s and Taff’s is essential today. As tourism evolves, understanding its impacts becomes crucial. Recent data shows that over 70% of tourists now consider sustainability before choosing travel destinations. This shift highlights the importance of their work in creating a future where tourism benefits everyone.
Both Duffy and Taff’s achievements enhance Penn State’s reputation in leisure science education. Their passion for social equity and the environment sets an inspiring example. For more insights into tourism and sustainability, check out this report from the World Tourism Organization.
