Iowa Travel Industry Partners Kicks Off FY25 with New Board of Directors, Celebrates FY24 Achievements, and Sets Ambitious Goals for FY25
[Iowa, July 2024] – Iowa Travel Industry Partners (iTIP) proudly announces the commencement of FY25 (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025) with the introduction of its new Board of Directors, a review of significant accomplishments from FY24, and the unveiling of ambitious goals and plans for FY25.
New Board of Directors for FY25:
iTIP welcomes the new iTIP Board of Directors who will lead the organization in its mission to champion tourism, increase visitation, and enhance Iowa’s economy through strategic partnerships. With a vision of unity among travel professionals and a commitment to fostering diverse communities that inspire travelers, the newly elected board members bring extensive experience and dedication to advancing Iowa’s tourism industry.
- President: Dave Herrell, Visit Quad Cities
- Vice President: Kevin Bourke, Discover Ames
- Treasurer: Jennifer Pickar, Cedar Falls Tourism
- Secretary: Ginger Williams, Charles City Chamber & Tourism
- Past President: Kim Grzywacz, CIT Signature Transportation
- Directors: Nicki Brus (Visit Quad Cities), Jessica Dunker (Iowa Restaurant Association), Mark Eckman (Council Bluffs Convention & Visitors Bureau), Greg Edwards (Catch Des Moines), Wes Ehrecke (Iowa Gaming Association), Kristi Franz (Explore Siouxland), Tavis Hall (Experience Waterloo), Carrie Koelker (Travel Dubuque), Nick Pfeiffer (Think Iowa City), Julie Stow (Cedar Rapids Tourism Office), John Valliere (Iowa PGA), Korey Woodbury (Hotel Millwright)
FY24 Accomplishments:
FY24 marked a period of significant development and growth for Iowa Travel Industry Partners. Key accomplishments include:
- Secured Major Contracts: iTIP successfully secured a second year-long vendor contract from the Iowa Economic Development Authority (Iowa Tourism Office) to execute a comprehensive niche marketing campaign. This initiative included statewide participation in three national trade shows, the creation of niche magazines, the utilization of statewide sports software, and the production of a group tour highlights video. These efforts provided members with numerous opportunities to promote their destinations and attractions to national planners, significantly increasing exposure and awareness for the state.
- Enhanced Programming: iTIP continued to nurture each of the D.R.E.A.M. committees, enhancing programming opportunities to deliver greater value to the industry. This included hosting 21 total events – 8 in-person and 13 virtual – providing resources and educational tools to over 500 industry members.
The FY24 Annual Report, available on iTIP’s website, details these efforts and underscores iTIP’s role as a pivotal resource for Iowa’s tourism sector, committed to unity, collaboration, and partnerships for sustainable industry growth.
The FY25 Board of Directors and approval of the FY24 annual report took place during the Annual Meeting (Summer Celebration) on June 11 in Sioux City. This event provided members across the state with an opportunity to network and reflect on the accomplishments from the past year, setting the stage for iTIP’s strategic direction in FY25.
Goals and Plans for FY25:
Building on FY24 successes, iTIP sets ambitious goals for FY25 under its strategic plan focusing on Expanding Value, Amplifying Industry Voice, and Ensuring Organizational Sustainability. Key objectives include:
- Expanding Value: Collaborating with Affiliate Associations for year-long tourism-focused business leadership programs, promoting cooperative trade show opportunities, and exploring virtual workshops to support statewide partners.
- Amplifying Industry Voice: Increasing media presence, enhancing visibility with elected officials to advocate tourism interests, and aligning closely with Iowa’s Tourism Strategic Plan.
- Sustaining the Organization: Evaluating membership dues structures, increasing funding contributions, seeking national grants, fostering county-level involvement, and expanding fundraising efforts.
Success Benchmarks for FY25 include significant membership growth, increased event participation, and heightened engagement with elected officials, reinforcing iTIP’s pivotal role as an advocate and resource for Iowa’s tourism industry.
“FY24 was a transformative year for iTIP, marked by significant achievements that have set a strong foundation for FY25,” remarked Executive Director Chelsea Lerud. “As we enter this new fiscal year, we are energized by the opportunities ahead to further elevate Iowa’s tourism industry. With our new Board of Directors and strategic goals in place, iTIP is poised to expand our impact, advocate for our members, and foster sustainable growth statewide. Together, we aim to strengthen Iowa’s reputation as a top travel destination and drive economic success through collaboration and innovation.”
iTIP remains dedicated to driving innovation and collaboration within Iowa’s tourism sector in FY25, aiming to expand member opportunities and strengthen Iowa’s reputation as a premier travel destination. Stakeholders, members, and tourism entities across the state are invited to join iTIP in shaping a vibrant future for tourism in Iowa.