RUSSELL Co, KY – Erin Carrico, executive director of the Murray Convention & Visitors Bureau, has been elected 2021 president of the Kentucky Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus (KACVB) with Janette Marson, executive director of the Lake Cumberland Tourist Commission as her Vice President.

KACVB is an association focusing 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, the convention and visitor industry.

In addition, the organization encourages ongoing educational opportunities for members which enhance their proficiency and to support high standards if professional practices throughout the convention and visitor industry.

“Due to COVID, the tourism industry has been turned upside down,” Carrico said. “Tourism is the economic driver in so many communities in Kentucky and they need as many voices as possible, to help them recovery. It is an honor to stand and represent our industry.”

KACVB works with sister organizations such as the Kentucky Department of Tourism, Kentucky Travel Industry Association, Kentucky Restaurant Association and the Kentucky Marina Association.

Carrico will serve as president of KACVB through the year and will conclude her appointment at the December 2021 meeting. Carrico has been the executive director of the Murray CVB since June 2009. Janette Marson will take over as KACVB President in 2022.

Executive officers for 2021 include: Vice President Janette Marson, Lake Cumberland Tourist Commission; Secretary Lori Murphy, Richmond Tourism Commission; Treasurer Traci Cunningham, Oak Grove Tourism; Immediate Past President Nancy Turner, Winchester-Clark. County Tourism Commission.