The International SPA Association (ISPA) will present Dr. Mary Wisnom, professor at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), with the 2017 ISPA Dedicated Contributor Award at the ISPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas, October 2017.

With more than 30 years experience in the hospitality industry, Wisnom’s employment has encompassed a variety of resorts and private clubs, including destination resorts, yacht, athletic, country and residential clubs in Michigan, Colorado and Florida.

Her work focused mainly in amenity management; overseeing spa/wellness, fitness, social/conference events, aquatic, and sports/recreation facilities and programmes.

In the early 90s, Wisnom began her teaching career at Central Michigan University and in 2012 co-authored the textbook, Spa Management: An Introduction.

An ISPA member since 2006, Wisnom most recently served as the lead on the ISPA Academy project, a consolidated area for all ISPA resources. In addition, she developed and edited a searchable spa offerings encyclopedia within the ISPA Academy. She has served on various task forces, edited ISPA textbooks and in 2013 received an ISPA Innovate Award.

“Wisnom’s passionate commitment to nurturing future spa leaders and developing valuable educational resources will have a lasting impact within the spa industry and beyond,” said ISPA president Lynne McNees.

“She is the true definition of a dedicated contributor and we are grateful she is a member of the ISPA community.”

The ISPA Dedicated Contributor Award is given to an active ISPA member who has contributed significantly to the growth of the association, demonstrating leadership, commitment and promotional skills, as well as championing the association’s mission and vision.

“I am truly honoured and delighted to receive the ISPA Dedicated Contributor Award,” said Wisnom.

“As I see it, without ISPA, its people, its research and resources, as a spa management educator, I couldn’t do my job. What ISPA contributes to the spa industry is exceptional. My contributions have just been a way to return the favour; a way to give back to a group that has given me so much.”