By Logan Lowery | Florida State University News
At Florida State University, researchers from the Dedman College of Hospitality and the Learning Systems Institute (LSI) are investigating how tourism can drive economic recovery and support mental health in regions impacted by crises such as natural disasters or armed conflict.
A study led by LSI Researcher Anna Romanova and Dedman Associate Professor Sean McGinley focuses on Ukraine and highlights tourism’s dual role: stimulating local economies through job creation and entrepreneurship, while also aiding psychological recovery for those affected by trauma and displacement.
“This work demonstrates how hospitality can be a force for renewal,” said Dedman College of Hospitality Dean Don Farr. “When people come together through travel and shared experiences, it can restore livelihoods and spirits, at the same time.”
“This work demonstrates how hospitality can be a force for renewal. When people come together through travel and shared experiences, it can restore livelihoods and spirits, at the same time.”
– Don Farr, Dedman College of Hospitality dean
The study’s findings underscore the potential of hospitality-driven initiatives to serve as both economic lifelines and pathways to emotional resilience in post-crisis environments.
“As a former CEO of the Association of Hospitality of Ukraine, I bring a deeply personal perspective to this research,” Romanova said. “Having arrived in Tallahassee three years ago due to the war in Ukraine, I’ve seen firsthand how the hospitality sector in Ukraine continues to persevere. We’re exploring how tourism and outdoor activities can not only drive economic recovery but also support mental health for Ukrainian military veterans, offering a path toward healing and resilience for my homeland.”
The research draws on the tourism-led growth hypothesis, which suggests that tourism can anchor economic activity and stimulate surrounding industries. The team conducted a mixed-methods study between April and May 2025, involving Ukrainian veterans who participated in seven- to 14-day vacations in the Carpathian Mountains.
Using surveys and in-depth interviews, the researchers assessed changes in mental health indicators such as aggression, anxiety and sleep disorders.
Among 56 veterans, most reported noticeable reductions in anxiety and aggression, improved sleep quality and enhanced mood and physical condition. Approximately 77% of participants agreed that travel and outdoor activities helped distract from negative thoughts and reduce stress.
“By studying the intersection of tourism and mental health, we’re uncovering how structured outdoor experiences can provide individuals with a sense of purpose and community,” said McGinley, associate professor at the Dedman College of Hospitality. “Our findings in Ukraine suggest that these initiatives not only aid personal recovery but also spark entrepreneurial opportunities, creating a ripple effect for local economies.”
Veterans described their travel experiences as providing a sense of freedom, relief from routine and opportunities to reconnect with themselves and others. Many preferred unstructured, nature-based environments and emphasized the value of peer interaction and gentle physical activities.
“Hospitality is part of that global force for good that FSU is, and it’s exciting to be a part of that. The fact that we can do this right here in Leon County and make a difference in places as far away as Ukraine is really exciting and shows the local and global impact of the university.”
– Sean McGinley, Dedman College of Hospitality associate professor
Romanova and McGinley developed a conceptual model showing how tourism can simultaneously drive economic recovery and foster mental health improvements. Their findings suggest that well-designed tourism initiatives can serve as nonclinical interventions for mental health while also creating jobs and supporting local economies.
“While our study focuses on Ukraine as a case study, we believe the findings could inform strategies for economic and mental health recovery around the world,” Romanova said. “We’re also exploring new avenues, including the emerging interest in golf tourism in Ukraine inspired by U.S. veteran initiatives and cultural exchanges.”
They recommend that recovery strategies — whether in post-conflict societies or areas affected by natural disasters — include therapeutic, nature-based and memorial tourism programs with a focus on community engagement and inclusivity.
“Hospitality is part of that global force for good that FSU is, and it’s exciting to be a part of that,” McGinley said. “The fact that we can do this right here in Leon County and make a difference in places as far away as Ukraine is really exciting and shows the local and global impact of the university.”
For more information about the Dedman College of Hospitality, visit dedman.fsu.edu. To learn more about Romanova and McGinley’s findings, visit Socio-Cultural Management Journal.