A local marketing exec in the tourism industry has been named to a 30 Under 30 class by an international association.

Kate Herron, director of marketing for Experience Grand Rapids, is one of Destination International’s 2017 30 Under 30 winners.

Herron submitted a self-produced video about her love for Grand Rapids and the hospitality industry. The Beer City Brewsader Passport and Restaurant Week GR are two projects that Herron manages and mentions in her video. Herron also talks about her goals for the upcoming year, such as increasing outdoor recreation tourism.

“It’s an honor to represent Experience Grand Rapids as one of the 30 Under 30 participants,” Herron said. “The tourism industry is filled with fun, intelligent leaders. I am looking forward to the networking and thought-sharing with the other professionals in the class. I am also excited to learn from this experience and apply that knowledge to furthering Grand Rapids tourism.” 

Herron has worked for more than five years in the tourism industry. She started as a marketing intern at Experience Grand Rapids before rising to the position of director. She has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Grand Valley State University and an M.B.A. from Western Michigan University. She is also a Certified Tourism Ambassador and a Certified Culinary Tourism Professional.

Every year, Destinations International selects 30 participants worldwide to be nominated for the 30 Under 30 award program. Candidates must be 30 years of age or younger and have worked in the travel industry for at least 1.5 years.

Benefits include complimentary registration and three nights of accommodations during DI’s 2017 Annual Convention in Montreal, complimentary registration for Fundamentals in Destination Marketing, the first course of DI’s Professional in Destination Management program, and year-round professional development focus, including regular interactive webinars and an online community to share ideas.

Experience Grand Rapids

The mission of Experience Grand Rapids is to strengthen the region’s economic vitality and quality of life by marketing Grand Rapids as an ideal traveler destination. Strategies involve short-term promotions, long-term marketing and sales strategies and a focus on community developments that will impact the visitor experience.

Destinations International

Destinations International serves destination marketing professionals around the world. Formerly branded Destination Marketing Association International, the organization promotes higher standards in the travel and tourism industry through community outreach, advocacy, research and education.