Associate Professor of Hospitality and Regional Identity

Angela Sebby joined Maryville College as an Associate Professor of Hospitality and Regional Identity in 2023 after serving as an Associate Professor of Hospitality and Tourism Management in the College of Business at Western Carolina University 2016-2023.  She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality, Restaurant, and Tourism Management from  the University of Tennessee-Knoxville.  She earned her MBA with cognates in Marketing and Management from Lincoln Memorial University and her Ph.D. in Retail, Hospitality and Tourism Management from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville with a concentration in Hospitality and Tourism Management.

Dr. Sebby’s research focuses on destinations and travel decisions, social exchanges, and Destination Management Organizations.  Her latest research focused on Covid-19 and the effects on travel and consumer purchase intentions while current research is centered toward the integration of Maker’s in the Appalachian area and its effects on destination images and consumer travel decisions. 

Her certifications include Certified Hospitality Educator, Certification in Hotel Industry Analytics, Contemporary Club Management, and Bar and Beverage Certification through AHLEI.  She has also received her Six Sigma Lean Professional and Change Management certification as well as the Disney Institute’s certifications in the Approach to Leadership Excellence, Approach to Employee Engagement, and Quality Service. 

Her teaching interests lie in Introduction to Hospitality and the Customer Experience, Principles of Management, Hospitality Marketing, Hospitality Management and Operation, Hospitality and Regional Identity through Food and Beverages, and Introduction to Sustainable Tourism. 

Beyond academia, Dr. Sebby loves traveling, seeking out the backroads that offer unique experiences and beautiful landscapes.  When not traveling, you will find Dr. Sebby enjoying the culturally rich opportunities in the East Tennessee region she calls home.  From local farmer’s markets to festivals to diverse local dining options, Dr. Sebby believes there are always extraordinary travel options in our own backdoor.