Just steps from the conference registration desk, explore a curated selection of Savannah's finest local treats. This is your opportunity to wet your whistle and tickle your tastebuds with the flavors unique to the Hostess City.
What's in store?

• Sweet Indulgences from River Street Sweets: Enjoy the rich, buttery taste of Savannah's signature pralines and the gooey goodness of their famous "Gophers."
• Savory Bites from The Savannah Cheese Straw Company: Savor these classic Southern snacks' crisp, cheesy goodness.
• Gourmet Popcorn from the Popcorn Geeks: Treat yourself to an array of savory and sweet flavors that will take your snack break to the next level. 
• A Sprinkle of Coastal Magic from The Salt Table: Discover the unique seasonings that bring a hint of Savannah and Tybee Island to your dinner table—a little dash of coastal charm.
• Cookies from Byrd Cookie Company: Enjoy an assortment of delectable cookies from Byrd Cookie Company, a Savannah institution known for its crisp, flavorful treats and rich history.

These local favorites are available for your enjoyment throughout your stay. If you find a favorite, you can purchase them at our visitor center gift shop or at specialty stores around town.
While you're here, be sure to stop and say “hey” to Dee Ann, Joe’s Executive Assistant, and Calvin, our First Impression Specialist. They're happy to chat and share recommendations on the best shopping, dining, tours, and hidden gems Savannah offers. 
We're excited to introduce you to the flavors of Savannah and hope you enjoy this taste of our fabulous city!

Join Visit Savannah for an unforgettable evening at the CEO Summit Welcome Reception, set against the stunning backdrop of the Savannah River at sunset. Hosted at JW Marriott’s River Front Pavilion, this exclusive gathering in the heart of Savannah’s Plant Riverside District offers the perfect blend of luxury, energy, and Southern hospitality. Savor a carefully curated selection of Low Country cuisine and signature cocktails, designed to celebrate Savannah’s rich flavors. As you mix and mingle with fellow attendees, you’ll experience the city’s unique blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy—a setting that’s as inspiring as it is welcoming. This is more than just a reception—it’s the first can’t-miss opportunity to connect with your peers and set the tone for an exceptional summit. We look forward to raising a glass with you in Savannah!

Fleet Feet Savannah is the go-to for walkers, runners, and everyone in between! To help you find the right "FIT", join us for a casual 3.5-mile adventure through the historic district of Savannah. Limited to 40 participants – secure your spot today! 

Just steps from the conference registration desk, explore a curated selection of Savannah's finest local treats. This is your opportunity to wet your whistle and tickle your tastebuds with the flavors unique to the Hostess City.
What's in store?

• Sweet Indulgences from River Street Sweets: Enjoy the rich, buttery taste of Savannah's signature pralines and the gooey goodness of their famous "Gophers."Savory Bites from
• The Savannah Cheese Straw Company: Savor these classic Southern snacks' crisp, cheesy goodness.
• Gourmet Popcorn from the Popcorn Geeks: Treat yourself to an array of savory and sweet flavors that will take your snack break to the next level. 
• A Sprinkle of Coastal Magic from The Salt Table: Discover the unique seasonings that bring a hint of Savannah and Tybee Island to your dinner table—a little dash of coastal charm.
• Cookies from Byrd Cookie Company: Enjoy an assortment of delectable cookies from Byrd Cookie Company, a Savannah institution known for its crisp, flavorful treats and rich history.

These local favorites are available for your enjoyment throughout your stay. If you find a favorite, you can purchase them at our visitor center gift shop or at specialty stores around town.
While you're here, be sure to stop and say “hey” to Dee Ann, Joe’s Executive Assistant, and Calvin, our First Impression Specialist. They're happy to chat and share recommendations on the best shopping, dining, tours, and hidden gems Savannah offers. 
We're excited to introduce you to the flavors of Savannah and hope you enjoy this taste of our fabulous city!

What does it take to breathe new life into a historic structure while preserving its soul? In this captivating session, you'll hear the remarkable story behind the transformation of Savannah's iconic Georgia Power Plant into the vibrant Plant Riverside District. This session will explore the vision, challenges, and innovative design strategies that turned a derelict industrial site into a dynamic destination blending history, hospitality, and culture. Attendees will gain unique insights into the complexities of adaptive reuse, balancing heritage preservation with modern functionality, and the collaborative process behind one of Savannah's most ambitious revitalization projects. Whether you're passionate about urban design, architecture, or community transformation, this session offers a behind-the-scenes look at how to make the old new again—while honoring the past and shaping the future.

Richard Kessler

Chairman & CEO

The Kessler Collection

Christian Sottile

President

Sottile and Sottile Architects

 

 

 

In today’s competitive environment and rapidly shifting political landscape, proving the value of destination marketing is not optional—it’s essential. Miscalculating (or not measuring at all) endangers the success of your organization, reputation, and bottom line. We outline the cost of failing to communicate impact—and ask, how can we win the future of destination marketing?  

Chuck Davison, CDME

Vice President of Attribution Solutions

Tourism Economics

 

 

 

 

Jared will share how The Savannah Bananas - the most fun team in sports - has built a culture that focuses on loving people and building fans no matter who you serve, what you do, or what role you’re in. Get ready to laugh, cry, and Go Bananas.  

Jared Orton

President

Savannah Bananas

 

 

 

 

Join Fred Dixon, the recently appointed CEO of Brand USA, as he reflects on his first six months leading the nation’s destination marketing organization. Fred will share key insights from his early tenure, strategic priorities for Brand USA, and how the organization plans to adapt to the evolving landscape of global travel. Discover his vision for fostering innovation, strengthening international partnerships, and driving sustainable growth to ensure the U.S. remains a top destination in an increasingly competitive global market. Engage in an enlightening dialogue about what’s next for Brand USA and the future of travel.

Fred Dixon

President & CEO

Brand USA

 

 

 

 

In an age of escalating trade wars, federal budget cuts, and growing geopolitical tensions, destination leaders face unprecedented challenges that threaten tourism growth and economic stability. Join Jack Johnson, Chief Advocacy Officer at Destinations International, for a candid discussion on how these global disruptions are impacting the travel and tourism industry—and what destination organizations might be able to do to adapt, advocate, and thrive. This session will explore insights and strategies needed to navigate uncertainty, safeguard their destinations, and position their organizations for long-term success.

Step into the historic Lucas Theatre for the Arts for an unforgettable afternoon that celebrates creativity, culture, and connection. Guests will be welcomed by the grandeur of this architectural gem before experiencing the captivating sound of the Mighty Wurlitzer, a rare and magnificent theater pipe organ. This unique performance will accompany a SCAD-produced silent film, showcasing how the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) brings its theaters to life with vibrant cultural activities open to the entire community.

Discover the transformative impact of SCAD through an engaging presentation on the university’s contributions to Savannah’s economy and its influence on visitation, underscoring the critical role educational institutions play in shaping destinations.

The event culminates with an introduction to SCADpro, the university's innovative design studio that partners with global brands like Disney, Google, and Coca-Cola, as well as cities and businesses, to solve real-world challenges through the power of art and design. This immersive experience promises to leave you inspired by the dynamic intersection of education, culture, and creative ingenuity.

Just steps from the conference registration desk, explore a curated selection of Savannah's finest local treats. This is your opportunity to wet your whistle and tickle your tastebuds with the flavors unique to the Hostess City.
What's in store?

• Sweet Indulgences from River Street Sweets: Enjoy the rich, buttery taste of Savannah's signature pralines and the gooey goodness of their famous "Gophers."
• Savory Bites from The Savannah Cheese Straw Company: Savor these classic Southern snacks' crisp, cheesy goodness.
• Gourmet Popcorn from the Popcorn Geeks: Treat yourself to an array of savory and sweet flavors that will take your snack break to the next level. 
• A Sprinkle of Coastal Magic from The Salt Table: Discover the unique seasonings that bring a hint of Savannah and Tybee Island to your dinner table—a little dash of coastal charm.
• Cookies from Byrd Cookie Company: Enjoy an assortment of delectable cookies from Byrd Cookie Company, a Savannah institution known for its crisp, flavorful treats and rich history.

These local favorites are available for your enjoyment throughout your stay. If you find a favorite, you can purchase them at our visitor center gift shop or at specialty stores around town.
While you're here, be sure to stop and say “hey” to Dee Ann, Joe’s Executive Assistant, and Calvin, our First Impression Specialist. They're happy to chat and share recommendations on the best shopping, dining, tours, and hidden gems Savannah offers. 
We're excited to introduce you to the flavors of Savannah and hope you enjoy this taste of our fabulous city!

Start your day with an insightful breakfast conversation featuring Hatti Hill and Adam Burke as they explore the evolution of Tourism Diversity Matters (TDM) and discuss its future and its impact on the industry. This exclusive session is designed for U.S.-based CEOs to engage, share perspectives, and help shape the path forward.

Hattie Hill

Interim CEO of Tourism Diversity Matters and CEO, Hattie Hill Enterprises

Adam Burke

President & CEO

Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board

 

 

 

Unlock Your Community’s Superpower: Resident Sentiment Towards Sporting Events

This session will be the first look from the latest groundbreaking research from Longwoods International and Cimarron Global Solutions!  Amir Eylon will present a preview of the key highlights of the very first National Resident Sentiment Towards Sporting Events study. Learn how insights from this study can transform your community into a sports tourism powerhouse. Discover actionable strategies to harness local enthusiasm and drive economic growth through sporting events.

• Amir Eylon, President & CEO, Longwoods International

Vague Metrics? You're Playing with Fire

The pressure on CEOs to justify expenditures has never been greater. Every DMO dollar counts—which means CEOs must confront the harsh reality: track and prove the value of your efforts or face high-risk consequences for your organization. Join Chuck as he shares insights from his experience as a former CEO, and Zeek, a former DMO leader who transitioned to new opportunities amid funding uncertainty, as they unpack the urgent need for DMOs to shift their focus from vague measurements to concrete outcomes. Listen in for lessons on reclaiming control of media spend, getting savvy with investment strategy, and maximizing ROI to ensure your efforts translate to tangible results. 

• Chuck Davison, CDME, Vice President of Attribution Solutions, Tourism Economics
• Zeek Coleman, Vice President, Americas, Tourism Economics

The Value of Print in a Digital Marketing World

Print media is experiencing a resurgence as a powerful tool for reaching and engaging travelers. While some believe that print has passed its prime, studies and examples demonstrate that print is alive and well and can have a place in the marketing plan.

• Laura Libby, President of Destination Marketing, Miles Partnership

Building the Next Community Flywheel: Creating Sustainable Momentum for Destination Success

Great communities don’t just grow—they build momentum. Like a well-designed flywheel, they generate consistent, self-reinforcing progress through disciplined leadership, strategic decision-making, and a shared vision for impact. In this session, we’ll explain how destination leaders can ignite and sustain long-term momentum by applying proven business principles to community development. Whether you’re looking to align stakeholders, drive economic growth, or position your community for long-term success, this session will equip you with practical frameworks to move from isolated wins to an unstoppable cycle of progress.

• Dan Janes, CEO, Madden Media

Future-Proofing: Insights to Position your Destination for Success

In this session, explore the latest trends among traveling consumers and meeting planners to inspire strategies that best position tourism for community support, economic development, and overall success.  These insights will illuminate how to navigate uncertainties and leverage emerging opportunities to bolster your destination’s appeal and resilience. 

• Erin Francis-Cummings, CEO, Future Partners

What The Waltons, Girl Scouts, and Old Spice Tell Us About the Value of First-Party Data, Audience Targeting, and Ad Serving for Yielding Sustainable Marketshare and Economic Growth

This fun session reveals how to harness first-party data to pinpoint high-value visitors, pair it with advanced targeting strategies, and deliver ROI-boosting campaigns through cutting-edge ad serving. We'll look at fun facts and lessons learned from The Waltons TV show, the Girl Scouts, and Old Spice, and how those learnings inspired a new data, media and measurement company, named AiOpti, that is taking the tourism industry by storm. You will take away actionable insights to optimize ad spend, build loyalty, and drive sustainable destination growth. And free Old Spice samples to the brave folks sitting in the front row!

• Barbara Karasek, CEO, Paradise | A Partner for Good and CEO, AiOpti Media LLC

Unlocking the Power of Accessibility: A Fireside Chat with Wheel the World and Dutchess County

Accessibility is a game-changer for destinations, driving economic growth, improving visitor experiences, and expanding market reach. In this fireside chat, we will share how Dutchess County leveraged the Destination Verified program to become more welcoming for people with disabilities and seniors—and the impact it’s had. Through real-world insights, lessons learned, and a powerful marketing campaign, learn why accessibility matters and how your destination can take action.

• Alvaro Silberstein Co-Founder & CEO, Wheel the World
• Melaine Rottkamp, CDME, President & CEO, Dutchess Tourism, Inc.

Tech-Driven Strategies to Expand Your Destination’s Market Presence

In this session, we will uncover the power of marketing technology when it comes to boosting your destination awareness and getting in front of qualified buyers. Learn best practices to efficiently prospect and reach planners, attract large group events. We’ll also share a real-life case study of how Cvent helped an emerging destination increase their exposure and create a clear line of communication between buyers and the hotels and venues in the destination.

• Lauren Swenson, Sr. Director of Sales, CVENT

Future-Proof Your Destination: A 2025 Funding Futures Report Update

Want to know how destinations are driving tourism growth and ensuring long-term destination success? Civitas and Miles Partnership, in collaboration with Tourism Economics and Destinations International, have just updated Funding Futures, one of the most comprehensive assessments of tourism taxation and funding options for DMOs. With topics ranging from short-term rentals, legislative updates and important destination trends, this is an essential guide to create sustainable funding for your destination. The updated report includes topics such as Important industry updates, an economic outlook, six powerful funding strategies, strategy and design considerations and much more!

• John Lambeth, President & CEO, Civitas
• Laura Libby, President of Destination Marketing, Miles Partnership

Drop by the Partner Networking Lounge to connect with industry peers, explore new collaborations, or simply unwind between sessions. This open, unstructured space is designed for casual conversations and spontaneous networking—no agenda, just opportunities to engage and build relationships.

Community Shared Value

As the role of destination organizations evolves, the concept of Community Shared Value has emerged as a guiding principle to ensure tourism benefits both visitors and local residents. This facilitated roundtable discussion invites participants to explore how destination organizations can align their strategies with community priorities, foster local engagement, and deliver long-term social and economic value. Come share your insights on building partnerships with community stakeholders, measuring and communicating the impact of tourism, and balancing destination promotion with resident well-being. Through peer-to-peer dialogue, attendees will identify practical approaches to embed community values into their organizational mission while maintaining sustainable growth.

• Jack Johnson, Chief Advocacy Officer, Destinations International, Facilitator

Insights and Strategies for Canadian Destinations

This exclusive, peer-to-peer CEO Roundtable brings together leaders of Canadian destination organizations for a candid discussion on the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of tourism. This interactive session offers a confidential space to share insights, explore innovative strategies, and address pressing issues—from workforce development and sustainable growth to the evolving role of technology. Connect with fellow CEOs, exchange ideas, and leave with actionable solutions to drive your destination forward.

• Michael Crockatt, President & CEO, Ottawa Tourism, Facilitator

Drop by the Partner Networking Lounge to connect with industry peers, explore new collaborations, or simply unwind between sessions. This open, unstructured space is designed for casual conversations and spontaneous networking—no agenda, just opportunities to engage and build relationships.

Social Inclusion: Where Do We Go From Here?

As the conversation around social inclusion continues to evolve, destination organizations face the challenge—and opportunity—of turning commitments into meaningful action. This facilitated roundtable discussion invites participants to reflect on progress made, share lessons learned, and identify the next steps to foster more inclusive destinations and workplaces. Through peer-to-peer dialogue, attendees will explore strategies for advancing equity, amplifying underrepresented voices, and building authentic community partnerships. This session will provide a collaborative space to discuss the obstacles faced, the initiatives that are making a difference, and the collective vision for the future of social inclusion in the tourism and hospitality industry.

• Sophia Hyder Hock, Chief Social Inclusion Officer, Facilitator

Beyond the Mainstage: Leveraging Sports, Film, and Festivals to Drive Destination Impact

From major sporting events to iconic festivals like Burning Man and the rising influence of film tourism, destinations are harnessing the power of cultural and entertainment experiences to drive economic impact and community engagement. This facilitated roundtable invites participants to share insights, challenges, and strategies for attracting and managing large-scale events and productions. Explore how to balance the economic benefits with community needs, navigate stakeholder partnerships, and leverage these events to enhance year-round destination appeal. Whether you’re focused on sports tourism, film production, or festival tourism, or want to learn how to incorporate them into your business model, come ready to exchange ideas, discuss best practices, and uncover new opportunities to position your destination on a global stage.

• Jill Delaney, President & CEO, Discover Albany, Facilitator
• Scott White, President & CEO, Visit Greater Palm Springs, Facilitator

Drop by the Partner Networking Lounge to connect with industry peers, explore new collaborations, or simply unwind between sessions. This open, unstructured space is designed for casual conversations and spontaneous networking—no agenda, just opportunities to engage and build relationships.

Join Cara Frank, Vice President of Marketing, and Vail Ross, Managing Director of 2Synergize, as they break down the top five trends and insights shaping 2025. They’ll share what’s on Simpleview’s radar and what destination leaders need to know for the year ahead. Expect candid conversation, key takeaways, and maybe even a little fun along the way!

Cara Frank

Vice President of Marketing

Simpleview

Vail Ross

Managing Director

2Synergize

 

 

 

Since 2017, Destinations International has introduced a variety of influential advocacy concepts. Most notably, in 2019, DI proposed that the tourism industry, and destination organizations in particular, should be recognized as a "shared community value." Since then, DI has continued its work in this area, publishing new concepts and strategies every year. This presentation places these concepts side by side to show the roadmap they form together and the resulting realization that we are not just destination marketers; we are stewards of our communities. This presentation will take all of DI's advocacy concepts to their natural and essential conclusion - a vision where we as destination stewards are fully known, deeply valued and truly empowered. 

Jack Johnson

Chief Advocacy Officer

Destinations International

 

 

 

 

In an era where crises—from natural disasters like wildfires and hurricanes to public safety incidents—can rapidly impact destinations, tourism leaders must be prepared to respond with agility, resilience, and strategic foresight. This session brings together CEOs from destination organizations that have faced recent crises and challenges, to share firsthand lessons learned. How did they manage immediate response efforts, maintain stakeholder confidence, and navigate recovery? What strategies proved most effective in safeguarding tourism economies while ensuring the well-being of visitors and residents? Join this candid conversation to gain actionable insights on crisis communication, operational continuity, and long-term resilience planning in an unpredictable world.

Bennish Brown

President & CEO

Destination Augusta 

Vic Isley

President & CEO

Explore Asheville

Kristin McGrath, CDME

Executive Director

Visit Pasadena

 

 

Join us for an inspiring session where Milton will share his remarkable journey through life and as a successful CEO. This session promises to be a captivating exploration of personal experiences and leadership milestones, highlighting how adversity and hope have been pivotal in shaping his successful career and wonderful life. Attendees will gain valuable insights into overcoming challenges and harnessing the power of resilience and optimism to achieve greatness. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a leader who has turned obstacles into steppingstones and inspired countless others along the way.

Milton Segarra, CDME

President & CEO

Discover the Palm Beaches

 

 

 

 

As Delta Air Lines celebrates 100 years of connecting people to their potential, they’re embracing the power of both legacy and innovation to shape the future of travel. In this keynote, Alicia Tillman will explore what it means to lead as a brand in an evolving industry, unlocking new and premium experiences for travelers, and how Delta is deepening customer loyalty to become the leading customer experience brand. From reimagining the travel experience to fostering meaningful connections across cultures and passions, this session will provide insights into brand evolution, leadership, and the role of purpose in driving long-term success.

Alicia Tillman

CMO

Delta Air Lines

 

 

 

 

In today’s rapidly shifting landscape, effective leadership is no longer just about experience or hierarchy—it’s about adaptability, vision, and the ability to bridge generations within your team. From navigating uncertainty to fostering innovation, leaders must balance the wisdom of seasoned professionals with the fresh perspectives of emerging talent. This session will explore what leadership truly means in today’s environment and what each of us must take away to stay ahead. Through candid discussion and real-world insights, we’ll examine how to lead through change, cultivate resilience, and prepare for what’s next. Whether you’re a veteran executive or a rising leader, join us for a forward-thinking conversation on guiding your team—and yourself—into the future.

Precious Williams

Speaker, Author, Corporate Coach and “#KillerPitchMaster