Finish What You Start: A Story of Faith, Frustration, and Follow-Through

July 14, 2025

It’s been a while.

And today, I have good news to share:

I officially earned my CDME – Certified Destination Management Executive credential. 🎓

According to Destinations International, the CDME is “the only integrated executive program specifically designed for the destination marketing and management industry. It prepares senior executives to become more effective organizational and industry leaders by focusing on vision, leadership, productivity, and implementing business strategies.”

This is amongst the highest level of professional education in the tourism industry and most CEOs and Executive Directors of Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) either hold this credential or are actively pursuing it.

I began this journey in 2022. Things looked different then. I completed it during a time when I had no title, no office, and no guaranteed next step. After much thought and prayer, I decided to finish it. But that was easier said than done. I struggled to focus. I couldn’t recall the material. I was frustrated. Every time I sat down to work on it, I became distracted. All of this was on top of searching for a new job/assignment. I was overwhelmed. I decided it wasn’t worth it. I tried to talk myself out of finishing it more than once.

Eventually, I looked at the calendar and realized I had three months left to complete the program. One day, after spending a few frustrating hours trying to make progress, I took a break and drove to Sim's Bar-B-Que on John Barrow. As I waited on my food, the owner walked in. We exchanged greetings, and I began thinking about his journey of building that restaurant. I knew it hadn’t been easy, but he stuck with it and it’s a thriving business.

I asked myself, what if he had quit, Kasey? That aha moment was the reminder I needed to finish what I started. I came home ready to dive back in. I thank God for that moment.

I finished what I started. And it means everything.

My final project focused on inclusive destination marketing something I’ve poured into throughout my career. I created a strategic matrix to help DMOs connect with more diverse audiences across race, age, ability, identity, and belief.

And I’m proud to say: it passed with no revisions.

Because this moment mattered so much, I chose to fly to Chicago and accept my certificate in person during the Destinations International Annual Conference.

I needed to stand in that room, to celebrate the win, and to affirm not for others, but for myself. I am still here. Still worthy. Still walking in purpose.

Before I go, let me say this…

Challenges happen. But I'm reminded that My faith looks up to thee......

I trust His perfect timing. I’m doing my part daily, and I trust and believe it will all pay off.

Maybe you’re reading this and struggling to finish something like a class, a dream, a goal, a healing journey. Let this blog be your reminder:

You can do it.

You can do hard things.

Let’s go.

To those of you who prayed for me — thank you. To those who have been cheering me on — thank you. And if you're just hearing all of this for the first time — welcome.

Let’s keep shining bright and be intentional about every next step. We're just getting started and the best is yet to come. The Word says eyes have not seen nor have ears heard the things God has prepared for me.

With God's love,

Kasey L. Summerville