One West Academy: Quarterly Edition
Welcome to the One West Academy: Quarterly Edition—your gateway to deeper learning, sharper skills, and real-world insights designed by our members, for our members.
Each quarter features a focused, immersive education track built around topics YOU told us matter most. Over three one-hour sessions (one each month), we take a deep dive into a single theme—giving you time to absorb, practice, and apply what you learn.
Whether you’re brand-new to the tourism industry or a seasoned pro with decades under your belt, these courses are built to elevate your craft, strengthen your leadership, and expand your toolkit. Expect practical takeaways, fresh ideas, and expert-led conversations that move your work forward.
Let’s learn, grow, and lead—together.
Quarter 2
Presenter - Julie Hart - President & CEO - CFO by Design
April 9th, 2026 - 11:00am PST
DMO Finance 101: Where the Money Comes From – and Where it Goes
Description: Understanding your organization’s finances starts with knowing how DMOs are funded—and the responsibilities that come with them. In this session, we’ll break down common revenue streams such as hotel occupancy taxes, TIDs/TPIDs, grants, and earned income, while highlighting the importance of transparency and accountability in publicly funded organizations. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of how funding flows through their organization and what it means for decision-making, reporting, stakeholder trust and advocacy.
May 12, 2026 - 11:00am PST
Budgeting That Works: Building, Managing, and Adapting
Description: Budgets shouldn’t just be static documents—they should be tools that guide decisions and support your organization throughout the year. This session walks through how to build a realistic budget, align it with strategic priorities, and manage it effectively as conditions change. We’ll also cover common pitfalls, how to handle variances, and ways to make your budget more useful for both staff and board conversations.
June 2, 2026 - 11:00am PST
The Story in the Numbers: Making Financials Make Sense
Description: Financial statements don’t have to be intimidating. In this session, we’ll demystify the key reports—income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow—and explain what they’re really telling you about your organization’s health. Designed for both finance and non-finance professionals, this session focuses on how to interpret the numbers, ask better questions, and use financial reporting to support smarter decisions.
Julie Hart is the founder and CEO of CFO by design, where she helps destination organizations strengthen the financial foundations that support strong leadership and sustainable growth. Since launching the firm in 2012, she has partnered with DMOs and associations across the country to improve financial stewardship, prepare organizations for successful audits, and equip leadership teams with the insight they need to advocate confidently for their funding and impact.
Before starting CFO by design, Julie served as CFO for Visit Austin, where she developed a deep appreciation for the role destination organizations play in shaping vibrant communities. Her experience as a Bastrop city council member further informs her understanding of the public funding and governance environments many DMOs navigate today.
Julie is a nationally respected industry voice, a frequent speaker and executive educator, and a proud graduate of the University of Texas at Austin.
Future Quarters
3rd Quarter - Sports Tourism
