Contact:    Kristen Matejka

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Director of Marketing and Communications LICVB&SC 631 951-3900 xt.317 kmatejka@discoverlongisland.com

HAUPPAUGE, NY -(September 30, 2015)- The Board of Directors of the Long Island Convention & Visitors Bureau and Sports Commission (LICVB&SC) are pleased to announce the appointment of Kristen Jarnagin to the position of president/CEO after an extensive national search.

Ms. Jarnagin will be responsible for the overall operations of the LICVB&SC, its $2.9 million budget and its tourism departments including sales, marketing, partnerships, public relations, sports, international markets and film.

The Board of Directors and members of the search committee reviewed over 80 applicants and chose Ms. Jarnagin based on her experience and qualifications.

“We searched long and hard to find the most qualified professional for this important role for Long Island, and we’re happy to say that we found the perfect combination of leadership, passion, and tourism experience to expand the positive efforts of the organization,” said LICVB&SC Board Chairman Greg DeClemente. “Tourism on Long Island is a $5.3 billion industry and Kristen’s background in destination marketing, communications and public policy will undoubtedly benefit the organization as well as our community.”

Ms. Jarnagin brings more than 15 years of tourism marketing and leadership experience to the LICVB&SC from various positions in the hospitality industry. Most recently Ms. Jarnagin served as the senior vice-president for the Arizona Lodging & Tourism Association where her duties included Association management, communications, strategic planning, government affairs, event planning, fund-raising and sports attraction for major events including the Super Bowl and NCAA Final Four.

Prior to that role Jarnagin served as the director of public relations for the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa and the director of media relations at the Arizona Office of Tourism. In both positions she was responsible for branding and promoting the resort and the State on a national and international stage across a multitude of mediums.

“I am very excited to work with the LICVB&SC staff, Board and member businesses, along with local officials to generate meetings, business and leisure travel to the area,” said Jarnagin.

The Long Island Convention & Visitors Bureau and Sports Commission (LICVB&SC) is the official tourism promotion agency for Long Island’s travel and tourism industry. Based on Long Island in Hauppauge, NY, the LICVB contributes to the economic development and quality of life on Long Island by promoting the region as a world-class destination for tourism, meetings and conventions, trade shows, sporting events, and related activities. Visit www.discoverlongisland.com

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330 Motor Parkway, Suite 203, Hauppauge, NY 11788 (631) 951-3900