For more than 30 years, Marlise Taylor ’93, ’96 has helped shape the future of North Carolina’s tourism industry through research, strategy and leadership. Now, her contributions are being recognized with the College of Natural Resources’ Distinguished Alumni Award.

Taylor, who earned both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in parks, recreation and tourism management from the college, is the director of research at Visit NC. In her role, she leads marketing and economic research that informs policy, strategic initiatives and marketing investment decisions across the state’s tourism economy.

Throughout her career, Taylor has worked with stakeholders across North Carolina and beyond to develop research to strengthen the state’s competitiveness as a destination and support economic growth. Her work has helped guide decisions affecting the state’s tourism industry while advancing the role of research in destination marketing and strategy.

Taylor has also been a leader in her profession. She has held leadership positions with the Travel and Tourism Research Association, including chairman, president, first vice president, second vice president and board member. In 2019, she received the organization’s Shifflet Award for Research Excellence. She has also provided service to organizations including the U.S. Travel Association and Travel South USA.

Her commitment to service extends to NC State and the College of Natural Resources. Taylor previously served on the Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management Advisory Board and has mentored students through the Buzzard Leadership Development Program. She continues to mentor students in the college, helping prepare the next generation of leaders in parks, recreation and tourism.

Taylor’s career reflects the impact of a College of Natural Resources education well beyond the classroom — combining research, industry expertise and a commitment to service to strengthen North Carolina’s communities and economy.

The Distinguished Alumni Award honors members of the Wolfpack whose achievements reflect the strength and spirit of NC State. Award recipients are selected to represent the university’s colleges and are recognized for accomplishments that enhance the value of an NC State degree while strengthening the university’s legacy of excellence, impact and service.

Taylor was recognized alongside other 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients during NC State’s annual celebration of alumni achievement on Thursday, Sept. 10.