I Am Tourism Ambassador Academy

Want to build on what you learned in the I Am Tourism Ambassador (IAT) classes?

Ambassador Academy participants gain a strong foundation in Richmond history, a greater knowledge of the connection between the Region’s past and present and an understanding of this dynamic region. Participants will leave with a skill-set perfect for the local tourism industry and an endorsement from Richmond Region Tourism as an Ambassador Guide. Open to all, no prior tour or history experience necessary, but you must be an IAT Ambassador graduate.  If you have not taken the virtual IAT class or the in-person IAT class since 2018, please REGISTER HERE for the next IAT class, which is a pre-requisite for joining the IAT Academy. Current and prospective tour guides are particularly encouraged to attend.

The IAT Academy is a free, immersive experience focusing on Richmond history and RVA today and is open to anyone who has completed I Am Tourism Ambassador training.

Our next IAT Academy will take place in Fall of 2023, on six consecutive Sundays, from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.  The first class will meet at The Valentine, and the rest of the classes will meet in various locations throughout the Richmond region.  Each week, The Valentine guides will provide you materials, resources, and the location of the class that week.  If you are interested in learning more about IAT Ambassador Academy, please email Deanne Ralston, Community Relations Coordinator at dralston@visitrichmondva.com for more information.

What Ambassador Academy participants are saying:

“Ambassador Academy actually exceeded my expectations.  The group discussions bridged the history of the City with the current issues that we face today.”  
 
“I feel connected to RVA. I am also proud of some of the facts I learned about women and minorities.”  
 
The Richmond Region Tourism Foundation supports the IAT Ambassador Academy and I Am Tourism programs. Learn more about the Richmond Region Tourism Foundation here.