LONG ISLAND, NY (June 29, 2026) - Discover Long Island (DLI), the region’s only accredited destination marketing organization, today announces the appointment of Sharon Wyman, CDME, as its new President & Chief Executive Officer following a comprehensive search conducted by the organization’s Board of Directors.
Wyman, who has served as DLI’s Chief Operating Officer since 2020, is assuming the role after more than a year of leadership under Interim President & CEO, Mitch Pally. Her appointment marks the culmination of a distinguished career spanning nearly 25 years with Discover Long Island, previously known as the Long Island Convention & Visitors Bureau & Sports Commission, during which she advanced through the ranks from front-line visitor services to executive leadership.
“Having had the privilege of growing my career within this organization for nearly 25 years, I am incredibly honored to be entrusted with the role of President & CEO,” said Sharon Wyman. “Discover Long Island has always been more than a workplace to me, it has been a mission, a team, and a community. I am grateful to the Board of Directors for their confidence and look forward to continuing my work alongside our exceptional staff, partners, and stakeholders as we further build on our successes and advance Suffolk County and the greater Long Island region as a world-class destination."
Since joining the Long Island Convention & Visitors Bureau & Sports Commission in 2001 as an Information Coordinator in Visitor Services, Wyman grew throughout the company holding numerous leadership positions, ultimately leading to her most recent time spent as Chief Operating Officer. Throughout her tenure, she has helped shape the organization's growth while overseeing operations, finance, human resources, board relations, strategic planning, and organizational development.
Following the departure of former President & CEO Kristen Reynolds in 2025, Wyman played a critical role in maintaining organizational continuity and advancing key initiatives while helping guide Discover Long Island through a period of transition. As Chief Operating Officer, she has overseen the organization's day-to-day operations, managed a staff of more than 20 employees, strengthened internal processes and accountability, and supported the strategic growth that has elevated Suffolk County, Long Island’s tourism industry and Discover Long Island’s overall reputation.
Board Chair Marc Weinstein said Wyman’s appointment reflects both her proven leadership and her deep understanding of the organization, its stakeholders, and the tourism industry.
“Sharon’s journey is a testament to her dedication, professionalism, and commitment to Discover Long Island’s mission,” said Marc Weinstein. “She has helped shape this organization from the inside out, earning the respect of our staff, Board, partners, and tourism community along the way. Following an extensive search process, the Board unanimously agreed that Sharon’s experience, vision, and institutional knowledge make her uniquely qualified to lead Discover Long Island into its next chapter."
Weinstein also expressed the Board’s appreciation to Mitch Pally for his leadership and service over the past year, helping ensure a seamless transition while positioning the organization for long-term success.
"As someone who has had the privilege of serving Discover Long Island in many capacities over the years, as a board member, board chair, and most recently Interim President & CEO, I have watched Sharon's career evolve and her leadership impact grow," said Mitch Pally. "She embodies the very best of this organization and the Board's decision reflects what so many of us already know, that Sharon is exceptionally prepared to lead Discover Long Island forward and continue building on its remarkable momentum."
As a Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME), the tourism industry’s highest individual educational achievement, Wyman is widely recognized for her contributions to Long Island’s business and tourism community. Her professional honors include recognition as a Long Island Press Power List honoree, LIBN Top 50 Women in Business recipient, City & State Long Island Trailblazer, and Blank Slate Media Top Business Leader in Nassau County.
As CEO, Wyman will oversee all aspects of Discover Long Island’s operations, destination marketing initiatives, industry partnerships, and strategic growth efforts. She will continue the organization’s mission of driving visitation, economic impact, and community pride throughout the region while strengthening Long Island’s position as a premier year-round destination.
"As we look ahead, my immediate focus will be on strengthening partnerships, advancing our destination stewardship efforts, and growing Long Island's visitor economy, while ensuring tourism continues to be a powerful economic driver for Suffolk County and our communities. I am excited to build upon the strong foundation already in place and continue showcasing everything that makes Long Island a destination unlike any other.”
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ABOUT DISCOVER LONG ISLAND:
Discover Long Island is the region’s official destination marketing and leadership organization charged with furthering the destination’s thriving visitor economy, which saw recent record-breaking highs of $7.9 billion in visitor spending. The organization ensures Long Island’s coveted quality of life, thriving industries, and dynamic destination offerings are promoted on a global level, furthering economic development, and benefiting residents and businesses throughout the region. Awarded “Best Social Media” in the nation by the US Travel Association, the organization produces engaging content featuring local businesses and attractions garnering upwards of 10 million views. Additionally, the organization hosts a popular YouTube series, Long Island TV, as well as the Long Island Tea podcast. To learn more, please call 631-951-3900 or visit www.DiscoverLongIsland.com.
