Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1152980
B M & T ••• July/August 2019 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 12 N E W S M A K E R S GBCVB NAMES AARON JONES EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT The Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau (GBCVB) has announced Aaron Jones as its new Executive Vice President (EVP). Jones joins the GBCVB after having served four years as CEO of MetroLacrosse, the largest urban lacrosse and youth development program in the United States. His primary responsibilities as EVP will include oversight of day-to-day operations, operating budgets, financial practices, and revenue generation. Jones will also be tasked with carrying out the GBCVB's core mission, growing Boston's market share of visitors while embracing the values and policies established by the Bureau's Board of Directors. "We are thrilled to welcome Aaron to the team," said GBCVB President & CEO Martha J. Sheridan. "He comes to us with a wealth of experience managing a not-for-profit and working for many years in the sports sector. His skill set aligns perfectly with the new vision we are articulating for the agency and how we promote the destination." Jones brings to the Bureau nearly three decades of operations and fiscal management expertise. As CEO of MetroLacrosse, he provided operational and strategic leadership to advance the unique integration of lacrosse, youth development, academic counseling and scholarship activities to more than 5,000 boys & girls from urban communities across the country. Under his leadership, the organization underwent an elevated phase of growth and added $1.5M to its operating budget. Jones is excited to bring his operationally-savvy skillset and executive management style to the visitor industry. "I am very excited to join the GBCVB," said Jones. "Boston is an illustrious city filled with American history, tradition and new age innova- tion. I look forward to executing Martha's excellent vision to continue positioning Boston as a tier 1 meeting and visitor desti- nation. Together we will showcase the people and places that make Boston one of the most amazing cities and regions in the nation." Jones received his Bachelor of Science degree at Cornell University's School of Industrial and Labor Relations and his Master of Science from the University of Massachusetts. DESTINATIONS INTERNATIONAL WELCOMES DAWN HOLDEN AS THE VICE PRESIDENT OF MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT Destinations International Chair, William Pate, President and CEO of the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau and Destinations International President and CEO, Don Welsh, recently announced that Dawn Holdenjoined the association as the Vice President of Membership Engagement. In her new role, Holden will develop and implement the overall strategic direction of the organiza- tion's membership operations including the recruitment and retention of members, member services and engagement. She will also work in tandem with the senior executive team to develop planning, logistical, and budgetary strategies to contribute to the overall success of the organization and mem- bership base. "Our members are why we exist," said Welsh. "This position is charged with promoting and establishing Destinations International as the industry association where members feel known, understood and supported and given the tools they need to excel in their industry and communities. Dawn has been a member of Destinations International for many years and knows first-hand how to help our members around the world excel." "I started in the CVB industry in 2001. Very early on I was introduced to IACVB, now known as Destinations International," said Holden. "Destinations International has served as a reference for education, career paths and major events happening in the industry throughout my career. I am elated to join the Destinations International team and look forward to working collabora-