The Iowa Tourism Advisory Group held its inaugural meeting on Thursday, May 23, at the Iowa Economic Development Authority offices in Des Moines. A key initiative from the Iowa Tourism Industry Strategic Plan, the group is a collaborative effort to gather input and feedback on statewide tourism initiatives, bring fresh perspectives to inform future programming and foster collaboration across the tourism industry.
"The formation of the Iowa Tourism Advisory Board marks a significant milestone in our strategic plan,” said Amy Zeigler, Iowa Tourism Office manager. “The collective expertise and passion of these members will be invaluable as we work together to elevate Iowa’s profile as a top travel destination."
Wendy Scardino, Vice President of Development and Marketing for the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, joined a diverse group of non-governing stakeholders from various sectors of the tourism industry. Each member brings unique insights and experiences that contribute to the goal of enhancing Iowa’s tourism offerings and promoting the state as a premier destination for travelers.
“It was a pleasure to meet so many passionate professionals from vastly different businesses and regions of the state who share a common goal—growing Iowa tourism.” Scardino said. “I’ve watched the Travel Iowa strategic plan come into focus over the last several years. As an organization that draws thousands of visitors from out of state annually, I look forward to actively supporting further tourism growth in our region and throughout the state.”
The Iowa Tourism Office, part of the Iowa Economic Development Authority, works closely with community partners, attractions and events, to promote the state’s beautifully vast scenery and unique history. Tourism in Iowa generated $6.9 billion in expenditures in 2022, with more than $1.1 billion supporting state and local governments, while employing a total of 68,607 people statewide. For more information on everything Iowa has to offer tourists, visit traveliowa.com.