Registration for the program is now open to the public. 

"We are incredibly excited to introduce the Certified Destination Ambassador Program," said Dan Spedden, President of Visit Hagerstown. "This initiative is a vital step in enhancing the visitor experience across Washington County. By equipping our community members with practical knowledge and hospitality best practices, we are collectively building a more welcoming and informative environment for everyone who visits, lives, and works here." 

The Washington County Certified Destination Ambassador Program is ideal for:

• Hotel, restaurant, and retail staff
• Tour guides and event personnel
• Local business owners and their employees
• Community volunteers and new residents

Funded by an Economic Development Administration grant, the program was developed in partnership with Hagerstown Community College (HCC). This innovative online course offers flexible, self-paced learning for participants eager to deepen their understanding of Washington County's rich history, diverse attractions, and vibrant events. 

“It has been our privilege to work with Visit Hagerstown on this project,” said HCC President Jim Klauber. “It is a comprehensive program that will train employees in the hospitality industry to better grow our tourism efforts. This modularized learning platform will easily allow learners to access the material and move through the courses.”

The program requires participants to successfully complete four online modules, score 80% or better on the 50-question final exam and visit multiple attractions in the county. The following topics are covered in the course: 

• Module 1 – The Economic Power of Hospitality & Tourism
• Module 2 – What is our Story and Why do People Visit?
• Module 3 – Customer Service 
• Module 4 – Destination Resources (Visitor Centers, Digital Tools, Professional Development)

Affordable and convenient, the program is free for members of the Visit Hagerstown & Washington County CVB, and $20 for residents, students, and non-members. Certification is valid two years from the date of completion. 

“The CDA program was created to inspire and educate staff of all levels and volunteers to increase their knowledge of the county and provide a positive interaction with visitors.” stated Tiffany Ahalt, Director of Community Engagement at Visit Hagerstown. “The certification is perfect for high school students taking on their first job or organizations who have employees that are not familiar with the county.” 

For more information about the program go to visithagerstown.com/cda or email questions to cda@visithagerstown.com. To enroll visit www.hagerstowncc.edu/hospitality-recreation-certification-courses.

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About Visit Hagerstown:

Visit Hagerstown-Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau (Visit Hagerstown) is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization whose mission is to help attract visitors to Hagerstown and Washington County. Visit Hagerstown helps to create growth for the local economy by promoting, developing, and expanding the local visitor industry. For more information about the CVB, or to see events coming up throughout Washington County, go to www.visithagerstown.com.

About Hagerstown Community College: Hagerstown Community College provides accessible, affordable, and high-quality education and training to meet the diverse needs of the community.