Governor Ted Kulongoski has appointed Alana Audette to the Oregon Tourism Commission (dba Travel Oregon), the Governor’s office announced last week. Audette joins newest member Karen Utz, appointed in July.
“The tourism industry is vital to Oregon’s economy, and I’m confident these two new members of the Commission will serve our state well,” the Governor said. “I know they will carry forward the intensive state effort to help tourism grow and thrive, which is good for all sectors of Oregon’s economy. When we promote Oregon, we do more than invite people to visit our many beautiful tourist attractions — we bring them face to face with Oregon’s people, our towns and cities, and our vibrant business scene.”
Audette and Utz fill two vacancies on the Commission. Made up of nine members, the Commission provides expertise and sets policy direction for Travel Oregon staff.
“We are excited about the addition of Alana and Karen to the Oregon Tourism Commission,” said Todd Davidson, CEO of Travel Oregon. “The Governor has selected two more talented, experienced people who will help advance the tourism industry in our state. Their unique backgrounds and insight will help Travel Oregon position the state as a must-see vacation destination and establish Oregon’s brand in strategic geographic regions.”
Audette grew up in the family hospitality businesses in Aspen, Colo. and Bend, Ore. She took a nine-year detour from her tourism roots to head east for a career in legislative policy on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. Audette has served as President and CEO of the Central Oregon Visitors Association (COVA) since 1993. Under her leadership, COVA has more than quadrupled its annual marketing budget and membership base.
Utz is the owner and operator of The Black Walnut Inn in Dundee. In addition to her appointment to the Oregon Tourism Commission, she serves on the Board of Directors for the Oregon Lodging Association and Yamhill Valley Visitors Association. She is an active member of the Bed & Breakfasts of Yamhill County group.
The Oregon Tourism Commission, dba Travel Oregon, works to enhance Oregonians’ quality of life by strengthening economic impacts of the state’s $8.4 billion tourism industry. Visitwww.TravelOregon.com for details.
