Jinyoung Im

Professor Jinyoung Im is a faculty member in the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Oklahoma State University (OSU). With a PhD in Human Sciences from OSU (2016), an MS in Tourism Science (Jeju National University, 2009), and a BBA in Tourism Management (Jeju National University, 2005), her research focuses on hospitality operations, consumer behavior, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and sustainable tourism practices. Her work explores topics such as workplace inclusion, plant-based food choices, post-pandemic travel behavior, and leadership strategies in the hospitality industry.

Recent studies include investigations into restaurant employees' thriving at work, baby boomers' acceptance of plant-based meat alternatives, and the impact of flexwork on travel trends. She has received prestigious awards like the 2024 Outstanding Researcher Award and the 2023 Richard W. Poole Research Excellence Award. Additionally, she holds editorial roles in journals such as the Journal of Hospitality Marketing and Management and Event Management.

Her teaching spans event planning, conventions, leadership, and strategic management in hospitality, with courses like 'Convention and Special Event Management' and 'Leadership Excellence and Professional Growth.' She has secured grants including the Spears School of Business Public Impact Research Initiation (PIRI) Grant (2022–2023) and Penn State Berks Research Development Grants (2018–2021). Her research often addresses practical challenges faced by hospitality businesses, emphasizing resilience and innovation.