A New Journey: How a Father-Daughter Duo Revives Fresno’s Faith-Focused Travel Agency

Father and daughter duo Stephanie Smith and Steve Dick travel to the ends of the Earth (literally) to guarantee their clients experience enjoyable journeys. Photo by Backstory Creative

Inspiration Travel, a family-operated business based in Fresno and a prominent faith-based travel provider, announced a significant leadership change last week.

Stephanie Dueck Smith has been named CEO, bringing almost two decades of expertise to the position. She follows her father, Steve Dick, who will shift into the role of chairman and owner.

“I’m sincerely honored to carry forward the remarkable legacy my father and our leadership team have created,” stated Smith in a declaration. “I’m dedicated to broadening our mission, providing transformative experiences that encourage spiritual growth and connection. This upcoming chapter of our enterprise will aim at honoring our origins while welcoming the future.”

Founded in 1981 under the name Christian Cruise Conferences, Inspiration Travel was acquired by Steve and his wife Ruth Dick in 1994. Since then, it has expanded its clientele to over 1,500 distinct organizations and nearly 240,000 travelers.

This year, Inspiration Travel was recognized as a recipient of The Business Journal’s Family Owned Business Awards (FOBA).

In addition to Smith’s elevation, Joel James, who has been part of Inspiration Travel for over a decade, has been appointed president. In his prior role as vice president of global client services, James played an essential part in managing the company’s global operations, business growth, and top-notch service, as indicated in a news release.

“Our executive team is uniquely qualified to guide the company into an exhilarating new phase,” expressed Chairman Steve Dick. “Stephanie’s vision as CEO and Joel’s interpersonal and operational acumen will propel us forward as we continue to deliver unmatched faith-based travel experiences to believers globally. Together, they represent the principles and innovative mindset that have been integral to our business for many years.”