Washington Community Leaders Earn Professional Guide Certification

WASHINGTON, IOWA August 19^th, 2019 — Iowa State University recently announced that four Washington residents have earned the recognition of Certified Professional Guide. Michelle Redlinger is Executive Director for the Washington Chamber of Commerce and provides community tours with an emphasis in new businesses, residents, or possible employees relocating to the area.  To reach Michelle for tours please contact the Washington Chamber of Commerce at 319-653-3272, or email [email protected].

Isabella Santoro is the owner of Dodici Shop and she is available for Community tours, contact Dodici Shop at 319-653-4712.  Millie Youngquist is qualified for community tours and historic architecture, to reach her call 319-863-3041.  Crystle Christner is the manager of the State Theater, and she will provide tours of the oldest movie theater in the world, contact State Theater and leave a message for her at 319-653-4023.

 The Professional Guide Training and Certification program is the first of its kind in Iowa, specifically designed by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Community Development Specialists for staff and volunteers who deliver interpretive programs or lead guided community tours to the public. Certification candidates must complete a training workshop, which combines theoretical foundations of the profession with practical skills in delivering quality experiences to visitors. The final certification process is conducted at each individual’s place of work, directly applying professional guide practices most appropriate for each community or attraction, and improving visitor experiences across Iowa.

ISU’s professional guide training workshop and certification program can be held in any Iowa community. For more information about this program see www.extension.iastate.edu/communities/professional-guide-training-and-certification or contact ISU Extension State Tourism Specialist, Diane Van Wyngarden at [email protected].