Doctor of Philosophy, Organizational Leadership, Southeastern University
Master of Business Administration, Stetson University
Bachelor of Business Administration, Stetson University
Associate of Science, Restaurant Management, Valencia College
Associate of Science, Culinary Management, Valencia College
Associate of Arts, General Studies, Valencia College
Dr. Amy Harrelson, Program Director and Associate Professor of Tourism & Hospitality Management
Dr. Amy Harrelson is an accomplished educator and industry professional with a PhD in Organizational Leadership. With decades of experience in the tourism and hospitality industry, her career includes leadership roles at Walt Disney World, Republic National Distributing Company, and DPC Golf Clubs. At Disney, Dr. Harrelson earned the prestigious Partners in Excellence award, the company’s highest honor, for her outstanding contributions.
At Southeastern University, Dr. Harrelson serves as the Program Director and professor in Tourism & Hospitality Management, where she focuses on experiential and interactive learning with a Christian worldview. Signature projects include organizing and executing events, creating and marketing fictional resort properties, and crafting sustainable business models. She is the faculty sponsor for SEU’s Tourism & Hospitality Society and faculty advisor for the Florida Lambda chapter of Alpha Chi.
Dr. Harrelson’s doctoral dissertation, "Career Commitment of Female Mid-level Leaders in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry in the State of Florida: A Narrative Inquiry Approach," provides insights into the challenges and motivations of women leaders in the industry. Her work emphasizes resilience, adaptability, mentorship, and advocacy. The full dissertation is accessible here- https://firescholars.seu.edu/org-lead/41
A strong advocate for inclusivity, Dr. Harrelson was honored with the LINK Program Inclusive Excellence Award for fostering equitable learning environments. She actively collaborates with industry organizations, such as Visit Central Florida and the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association, to create opportunities for her students.
Outside of work, Dr. Harrelson enjoys playing golf, fishing, reading, and experimenting in the kitchen as a trained culinary professional. She treasures time spent with her family, walking her dog, and engaging with her community through her church and volunteer work with organizations like the American Cancer Society and Disabled Veterans of America.
