The Department of Retailing and Tourism Management is happy to announce the addition of Dr. Pei Zhang, Assistant Professor to the faculty.
Dr. Zhang has been heavily involved in research from the beginning of her educational career. She began her research endeavors with a project centered on the economic development of rural areas through tourism and hospitality. Dr. Zhang’s current research focuses on the value of co-creation in the fields of tourism and hospitality and she approaches her research from the perspective of both the consumer and supplier. Dr. Vanessa Jackson, Chair, Department of Retailing and Tourism Management, said, “We are very excited to have Dr. Zhang join our department in the Hospitality Management and Tourism program. She has been an asset to our program and she brings with her a strong interest in conducting research and writing grants.”
Education
- June 2009: Wuhan University of Science and Technology- B.S. in International Business and Economics
- August 2013: University of South Carolina- M.S. in International Hospitality and Tourism Management
- August 2017: University of South Carolina- Ph. D. in Hospitality Management
Get to Know Them
- Why did you want to come to the University of Kentucky?
The University of Kentucky was founded and remains as a land-grant institution. A land-grant institution is strong in research, education and outreach to communities. My career value is consistent with the university and college’s land-grant values (learning through education, discovery through research, and engagement with diverse communities, institutions and people). The reason that I want to work in academia is because I want to be a good researcher, a good teacher and a good citizen who could help in improving people’s quality of life through research, teaching and community works.
- What is one thing you look forward to in your new position?
Various opportunities to engage local tourism, hospitality and community stakeholders in potential research projects
- How do you like to spend time away from work?
Yoga and swimming