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Meet PIRT's New  Executive Director

Dr. Patrick Tierney assumed the role of Executive Director of PIRT in September, 2001. Following is a statement from Pat on the future direction of PIRT.

My thanks to former Executive Directors Karen Killebrew and Laurie Lubeck who have contributed a great deal of time and thought into starting and developing PIRT. Even before the events of September 11 there has been a great deal of questioning about ecotourism and "rethinking" of ecotourism, as expressed on the ecotourism news groups I belong to. Falling out from September 11, travel and tourism in the next two years may be very different. When I put these trends and issues into perspective I envision a somewhat different PIRT,  one that more broadly views ecotourism, still offers most of the member and some of the community benefits that we have valued for years, but takes less administrative work. Those attending the PIRT Partner Retreat in December, 2000 outlined much of my vision for the organization:

I envision an organization that continues PIRT's mission by organizing relevant quarterly activities on eco-cultural tourism issues; promoting communication among members, the industry and the public; offering a chance to socialize over delicious meals; and contributing to our communities.

Administratively we have to change to a "virtual" organization, communicating via our website and email, in-person at events and occasionally by electronic newsletter. Rather than membership dues, a small "communication fee" of $10.00 will allow us to organize and present events.

I see the new PIRT as similar, in some ways, to a book discussion group where friends get together to share their views on a book (tourism issue), hear from experts on the issue and share this over a good meal in a comfortable setting. If a different volunteer "partner" takes their turn each quarter identifying, organizing and facilitating a PIRT "activity", we will have a vibrant and interesting organization. One difference from a book group is that we need to communicate to an audience outside our membership. This could be done through our website, events open to the public and involvement with other partner organizations such as the Sierra Club, and The International Ecotourism Association. I also see PIRT being more proactive in our community than a book group. This might range from cleanups to awareness building. I welcome your comments and suggestions as  PIRT reinvents itself in the 21^st century.

Partners in Responsible Tourism
P.O. Box 237
San Francisco, California 94104-0237
Phone (415) 675-0420
email info@pirt.org