This week, Micaela Nardino ‘23 was honored as a Rising Industry Professional for 2026 at the Destinations International Annual Convention. 👏

Micaela is a special projects manager with one of the tourism industry`s most-respected analytics firms, Tourism Economics. In this role, she helps tourism leaders across the world utilize data to inform destination decisions.

“Receiving the Destinations International 30 under 30 is not only a recognition of what I`ve accomplished in the past, but it also feels like a testament to the future ahead of me in the tourism industry. It reminds me that there are people who see my potential, and are invested in my growth.”

While in the college, Micaela was an undergraduate research assistant, as well as an active member of the Tourism Management Association and the College of Natural Resources Ambassadors. Additionally, she was a recipient of the Joan & John Markham Award and Charlotte Swart Scholarship.

“I developed strong leadership skills from all of the group projects, experiences and trips outside of class,” she said. “And, most importantly, my passion for tourism developed and grew because of the dedication and spirit that my incredible, inspiring professors showed up to class with everyday.”

This week, we are featuring two of our alumni from the parks, recreation and tourism management program for their early leadership success in the tourism industry. Congratulations to Anna-Grace Agnini ‘22 and Micaela Nardino ‘23 for their recent recognition by Destinations International! 👏

Anna-Grace was selected for the Destinations International 30 Under 30 Class of 2026. She currently works as the environmental resource and ecotourism program manager at Discover Martin County.

“Receiving this recognition is incredibly meaningful to me because I have seen firsthand the impact that Destinations International has on the global tourism industry through my work at Discover Martin County,” she said. “To be recognized by such a respected organization at this stage in my career is both an honor and a source of motivation as I continue pursuing my passion for the intersection of tourism and sustainability.”

During her time at NC State, Anna-Grace was involved in a variety of organizations, including the National Parks Club, the Social Innovation Fellows, the Sustainability Stewards and the People-First Tourism Lab. She also interned with the NC State Compost Facility and with Ride the Wind Surf Shop in Ocracoke, NC.

While exploring different career paths, Anna-Grace was supported by professors who invested in students’ success, felt encouraged to pursue new opportunities and thoroughly enjoyed the real-world hands-on experiences in the classroom. “This collaborative and hands-on environment helped me build both practical skills and confidence, which made me feel well-prepared when I entered my current role.”

📸: @anna.ggrace

From search and rescue missions with the United States Coast Guard to studying forest management at NC State, fourth-year student Casey Carlton has built a solid path.

"I chose forest management simply because I have always loved being in the forest. It was my playground when I was a child and my respite into my adulthood."

As an active member of the Forestry Club (@ncsuforestryclub), Casey competes in timbersports events and builds his skills in dendrology and wildlife identification. After graduation, he plans to pursue graduate studies and a career with either the U.S. Forest Service or the National Park Service.

Read about Casey`s journey through the link in our bio.