Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1535167
16 B M & T ••• May/June 2025 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com immensely, as they heavily depend on travel and workforce engagement. Many hotels either closed or sought alternative funding sources to reopen and rehire staff, facing significant challenges in the process. Additionally, the abrupt transition to remote work left many employees absent for two years, fur- ther harming the community and leading to widespread job losses. As a result, numerous restaurants were unable to sur- vive the crisis, leaving a lasting impact on the local economy. What Recovery Looks Like As we transition into the "new normal," Wright's focus is on revitalizing tourism in the region. "Hope" is her guiding word, reflecting the city's optimism. Hotels are regaining occupancy, and large events are returning, alongside various local assets beyond restaurants and hotels that residents can utilize to strengthen the economy. While remote work brought flexibility, there is a growing return to traditional work settings. With this resurgence, the region remains hope- ful for a vibrant post-COVID future. This is an exciting yet uncertain time as we navigate the challenges of working with two municipalities. We are becom- ing creative and adapting to the differences, knowing that things will never be the same. Our focus is on how to educate the community about new opportunities in this "new normal" and create a vibrant city once again. Industry Leadership and Civic Engagement Wright's strategy centers on sustainable tourism, which she defines as more than just protecting natural resources—it's about promoting responsible travel that benefits the local economy and supports small businesses. "We want to attract visitors who not only enjoy our natural beauty but also con- tribute to our local businesses," she says. Working closely with local businesses fortifies their active roles in the recovery process. "We can't just promote tourism without helping the local businesses that make our communi- ty so vibrant. They're the backbone of what we offer as a des- tination," she says. Her plan includes forging new partner- ships, promoting local experiences, and working with nearby businesses to create packages that cater to travelers' evolving needs. `As the marketing agent for Brooklyn Park and Brooklyn Center, Wright works closely with both cities to support busi- nesses, plan infrastructure improvements, and increase tourism. She collaborates with local residents and other des- tination marketing organizations (DMOs) in the region, ensuring that smaller communities partner with larger ones to attract business and build a vibrant, thriving area. Wright is not just a leader within her organization but also a respected figure outside of the tourism community. Leslie, serves on 5 community boards. She meets with her peers and local entities including those of the upper Midwest, in her quest to improve state tourism. Prepared to Lead: Equipped for Excellence Leslie Wright's extensive background has uniquely pre- pared her for her role as President and CEO of Minneapolis Northwest Tourism. With a strong command of sales, she understands the intricacies of securing and retaining business, essential for driving tourism and economic growth. Her expe- rience interacting with boards in her previous positions has given her a solid grasp of how to communicate effectively with city and government officials, a skill crucial for navigat- ing the complexities of her new role. Working alongside other CEOs has also honed her ability to collaborate across all lev- els of management within an organization. These experiences have instilled in her the confidence to present to groups of elected officials and business leaders without hesitation. Rather than presenting limitations, she focuses on identifying what potential partners need and how Minneapolis Northwest can meet those needs, ensuring a mutually benefi- cial relationship. This proactive approach, combined with her deep understanding of the tourism industry, positions her well to lead the organization effectively. A Glimpse into Her Personal Life Beyond her professional commitments, Leslie Wright embodies the spirit of family as a dedicated wife and mother. She cherishes quality time with her loved ones, whether she's at home in Minnesota or traveling to visit her son in Greenville, North Carolina. "I enjoy traveling to see my son," she shares, reflecting the warmth of their bond. In her downtime, Wright indulges her passion for reading, enjoys a little retail therapy, and prioritizes self-care. She believes in the power of balance and often reminds herself, "It's important not to sweat the small stuff." Leaving a Legacy Leslie Wright is at the dawn of an exciting journey as the President and CEO of the Minneapolis Northwest Tourism Board. Armed with innovative ideas and a strategic vision, she is poised to uplift the region and nurture its vibrant future. "I want young people to know that a career in hospi- tality and tourism offers growth, success, and joy," she expresses passionately. "I take pride in leaving things better than I found them, and Minneapolis will be no different."