OAK GROVE, KY – Traci Cunningham, executive director of the Oak Grove Tourism & Convention Commission, has been elected 2023 president of the Kentucky Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus (KACVB). Cunningham took office at the Dec. 9 meeting in Corbin.
KACVB is a not-for-profit organization that meets quarterly throughout the commonwealth. The association focuses on political advocacy, public awareness, and education for Convention & Visitors Bureaus across the Commonwealth. The organization’s goal is to elevate the understanding of the tourism industry’s economic and social contribution to society as well as to monitor and influence government policies and programs affecting members, and the convention and visitor industry.
In addition, the organization encourages ongoing educational opportunities for members which enhance their proficiency and to support high standards of professional practices throughout the convention and visitor industry.
“Tourism is the economic driver in so many communities in Kentucky, and I am honored to have been selected to lead this amazing organization. I’m proud to work with so many wonderful partners, who represent communities of all sizes,” Cunningham said.
KACVB works with sister organizations such as the Kentucky Department of Tourism, Kentucky Travel Industry Association, Kentucky Restaurant Association, Kentucky Hotel Association, and the Kentucky Marina Association.
Cunningham will serve as president of KACVB through the year and will conclude her appointment at the December 2023 meeting. Cunningham has been the Executive Director of the Oak Grove Tourism & Convention Commission since March 2004.
Executive officers for 2023 include: Vice President: Lori Murphy-Tatum, Richmond Tourism Commission; Secretary: Michelle Allen, Somerset-Pulaski CVB; Treasurer: Lori Saunders Georgetown/Scott County Tourism; Immediate Past President: Janette Marson, Shelby, KY Tourism.