Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1517455
FAYETTEVILLE ADDS CONVENTION SALES MANAGER GRIFFEN Meet Isaiah Griffin, a dynamic Convention Sales Manager with DistiN- Ctly Fayetteville whose journey from the United States Air Force to the world of event manage- ment reflects his unwaver- ing commitment to excel- lence, discipline, and atten- tion to detail. Griffen's professional journey began with a dis- tinguished career in the United States Air Force, where he served with honor and dedication for two decades. His military service instilled in him the core values of integrity, teamwork, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Isaiah's experi- ence in the Air Force honed his organizational skills, strategic thinking, and ability to thrive in high-pressure environments. Following his military service, Griffen seamlessly transitioned into the world of event management after obtaining his Bachelor's Degree from East Carolina University. Recognizing the parallels between the preci- sion required in military operations and the intricacies of large-scale events, Griffen brought a unique perspective to the field and DistiNCtly Fayetteville. His ability to adapt quickly, coupled with a natural leadership style, positioned him as a rising star in the convention sales arena. Griffin has successfully managed a diverse array of events, from national conferences to industry expos. His strategic approach to con- vention sales, forged in the crucible of military service, has translated into meticulous planning, flawless execution, and unparalleled client satisfac- tion. Griffen's portfolio includes the successful coordination of events that range from government symposiums to high-profile corporate con- ventions. As a Convention Sales Manager, Griffen combines his military- honed discipline with a passion for creating seamless and impactful events. His strategic mindset, attention to detail, and commitment to client success set him apart in the competitive world of event manage- ment. Isaiah excels in building strong client relationships, navigating complex logistics, and ensuring that every event exceeds expectations. Griffin brings a unique blend of military discipline and event manage- ment expertise to every project he undertakes. His commitment to excel- lence, adaptability, and client-centric approach makes him a standout professional in the world of convention sales. Griffen's journey from the military to event management exemplifies his dedication to service, pre- cision, and the successful execution of every mission—whether in uni- form or orchestrating a memorable event. VISIT CINCY ADDS SENIOR SALES MANAGER TO HELP EXPAND DIVERSE MARKETS Visit Cincy is pleased to announce senior sales manager Kariuki Epps is rejoining the sales team. Epps worked with Visit Cincy as the National Manager of Diversity Sales from 2014 to 2019. During that time, he successfully booked many large con- ventions and valuable con- ferences in the Cincy region. Some of those con- ventions include the Nat- ional Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice (2017), Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. (2019), Christian Methodist Episcopal Church (2022), and two conferences that have never been to Cincinnati with the National Newspaper Publishers Association (2019) and Moose International (2021). Epps will bring new conventions to Cincinnati as well as enhance the region's reputation as a top national meeting destination, using his expe- rience in the religious, fraternal, and ethnic meetings segments. "Diversity is not just a buzzword, it's a commitment to inclusivity and growth," said Julie Calvert President and CEO of Visit Cincy. "By adding Kariuki to our sales team, we are strengthening our team's ability to grow on the already strong foundation we have built in diverse mar- kets over the years." Epps has years of experience in the hospitality industry. He spent time at Graduate Cincinnati Hotel as an Assistant Sales Director and at Destination Cleveland Convention & Visitors Bureau. Prior to that, he served as the convention center sales manager for the Radisson Hotel/Valley Forge Convention Plaza and as destination sales manager at the Akron Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau. "My relationship with my clients and friends, has always been built on trust and honesty," said Epps. "Developing strong relationships with hotels, restaurants, entertainment, and airport partners is important to me and I strive to be persistent and dependable all at the same time," Epps continued. Epps has his Master of Arts from the University of Akron in Urban Studies in the Public Administration Department and his B.A. from West Virginia Wesleyan College in Sociology & Religion. Epps also boasts professional affiliations within the hospitality industry including Certified Faith-bases Meeting Professional (CFMP), and Certified Tourism Ambassador (CTA). Epps is also a proud father of two, Nasari (son) is in the Air Force and Kya (daughter) is a National Champion in track at Walsh University. N E W S M A K E R S 10 B M & T ••• March/April 2024 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com