Tulsa International Airport (TUL) is proud to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its Ambassador Program this year, a milestone that honors three decades of dedicated volunteer service.
The Ambassador Program, along with the beloved Welcome Waggin’ Therapy Dog team, is a cornerstone of the airport’s guest experience, offering travelers a warm welcome, helpful information, and a calming presence.
In 2024 alone, volunteers contributed 17,812 hours of service, an impact valued at over $619,000. These contributions enhance the passenger experience and support airport operations every day of the year.
Today, more than 130 Ambassadors serve the airport, assisting guests from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in four-hour shifts. The only requirement to become an Ambassador is to be 55 years or older. Ambassadors are insured through Tulsa-based nonprofit partner Life Senior Services, which connects older adults with meaningful volunteer opportunities.
These volunteers come from diverse and fascinating backgrounds, including a 98-year old World War II veteran who consistently volunteers eight hours a week, and many who spent their professional careers in aviation. Their shared passion for helping others and giving back creates a special camaraderie within the program that is felt by both travelers and staff.
“I enjoy meeting and talking to people from all over the world”, said TUL Airport Ambassador, James Phillips. “Being able to help someone whether they’re lost, stressed, or just need a friendly face, makes volunteering incredibly rewarding.”
Fun facts from the TUL Airport Ambassador program include:
- Six current Ambassadors have been with TUL for over 20 years.
- Volunteers distribute approximately 18,500 TUL Wing stickers annually.
- The most frequently asked traveler question: “Where is the nearest restroom?”
The airport also hosts nearly 20 Welcome Waggin’ therapy dog teams, providing passengers an opportunity to relax and engage with certified therapy dogs. Unlike the Ambassador Program, there is no age requirement for therapy dog handlers.
TUL passengers and employees share their gratitude and admiration for Ambassadors:
- “We fly into Tulsa a few times a year and every time we round that corner to Baggage Claim the sweet volunteers are there to offer my boys some wings. Thank you!” Tiffany Choma, TUL passenger.
- “I travel through (TUL) 2-3 times per month. I love seeing their big smiles! It always gets my trip off on the right foot.” – Rachel Arnold, TUL passenger.
- “We love our Red Coats! They help so many people feel welcome and comfortable at our airport. I love watching them and talking with them.” – Jeanie Renfrow, Concessions Employee at TUL.
- “Our volunteers are an invaluable part of the TUL family. Their dedication, passion, and kindness leave a lasting impression on our travelers and play a crucial role in our commitment to customer service excellence,” said Alexis Higgins, CEO of Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust. “We are incredibly grateful for the sense of community they create within our terminal.”
About Tulsa International Airport
Tulsa International Airport (TUL) is dedicated to providing a seamless, friendly, and accessible travel experience for all passengers. Known for its customer-centric approach and forward-thinking initiatives, TUL connects travelers to destinations across the globe while maintaining its commitment to the community it serves. Five air carriers offer nonstop service from TUL to 23 destinations across the country. In 2024, the airport served 3.24 million passengers.
All images credited to Tulsa International Airport
