Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1528810
FORT WORTH VENUE PROFESSIONALS EARN CVP DESIGNATIONS, RECEIVE HOSPITALITY AWARD Andrea Wright, Assistant Director of Finance & Administration for the City of Fort Worth Public Events Department, and Cynthia Serrano, Assistant Director – General Manager of the Fort Worth Convention Center, both earned their Certified Venue Professional (CVP) creden- tial from the International Associa- tion of Venue Professionals. The CVP recognizes the com- petence of middle to senior level managers of public assembly ven- ues. CVP applicants are rated on their experience and accomplish- ments in public venue manage- ment and must successfully com- plete a comprehensive written examination that tests general knowledge of the public venue management profession. Blake Moorman Director of Sales for the Fort Worth Conven- tion Center, received the Bring Meetings Home award from Visit Fort Worth and the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce. Blake was responsible for bringing the 77th Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Southwestern Regional Convention to Fort Worth in 2023, which included alumni and college chapters from Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. The convention was last in Fort Worth in 2004. Due to the Fort Worth community's overwhelming support, Blake and his team raised over $131,000 in sponsorships for the convention, which was the highest amount raised by a local host chapter. VISIT ANNAPOLIS & ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY WELCOMES RASHEEDA MARTIN AS SENIOR DIRECTOR OF EXTERNAL RELATIONS Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County (VAAAC) is excited to announce the appointment of Rasheeda Martinas its new Senior Director of External Relations. Martin, previously the Director of Sales at Explore York, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role. Martin has established her- self as a leader in the tourism and sales industry. Her contri- butions have been widely rec- ognized, and she is known for staying ahead of industry trends and best practices. Kristen Pironis, Executive Director of VAAAC, expressed her enthusiasm about Martin joining the leadership team. "Rasheeda's strong track record in driv- ing strategic initiatives, building client relationships, and her collab- orative leadership style make her an ideal fit for Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County," said Pironis. "Her extensive experience and commitment to connecting with others will be vital as we enhance our region's tourism offerings and collaborate with stakeholders to promote economic growth." In her new position, Martin will oversee VAAAC's sales, external communications, and partnership teams, working to strengthen relationships with government entities, industry partners, and local communities. She will lead initiatives aligned with VAAAC's long- term strategic objectives, which include promoting sustainable tourism, fostering inclusivity, and enhancing the region's economic vitality. At Explore York, Martin was recognized for her exceptional per- formance in surpassing sales targets, achieving consistent revenue growth, and elevating sports tourism as a key driver of local tourism. Her strategic insight and customer-centric approach significantly increased visitor spending and enhanced York County's reputation as a premier sports tourism destination. Additionally, she holds an STS (Sports Tourism Strategist) accreditation from the Sports Events & Tourism Association, highlighting her commitment to excellence in the field. Outside of her professional achievements, Martin is passionate N E W S M A K E R S 8 B M & T ••• November/December 2024 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com Rasheeda Martin Andrea Wright Cynthia Serrano Blake Moorman