Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1545782
B M & T ••• July/August 2026 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 9 NEWSMAKERS Administration from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Kincaid is a member of the BTA's Leadership Team, work- ing across the organization to advance strategic priorities, strengthen market engagement, and support commercial out- comes aligned with the National Tourism Plan. "Eric's appointment strengthens our focus on how we tar- get and convert both leisure and group business in key mar- kets," said Acting CEO Erin Wright. "His experience will sup- port more targeted sales efforts across priority segments, while advancing our goal of improving how we invest and respond to shifting demand." Group travel represents an important source of year-round visitation for Bermuda, driving room nights and visitor spend, particularly during the shoulder seasons when demand is typ- ically lower. It supports industry stability and creates oppor- tunities for repeat visitation, as many travellers are intro- duced to Bermuda through business, sporting events— including tournaments, championships, training retreats and participatory races—and other group experiences. This expo- sure helps convert first-time visitors into future leisure trav- ellers, making group and sports travel important contributors to both immediate impact and sustained visitation. Kincaid will be based in the United States and will begin engagement with global industry partners and Bermuda stakeholders in the coming weeks. GRAPEVINE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU WELCOMES TARA HIPPENSTEEL AS LEISURE & INTERNATIONAL SALES MANAGER The Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau is pleased to announce the addition of Tara Hippensteel as Leisure & International Sales Manager, bringing extensive experi- ence and industry relation- ships to the team. A seasoned tourism and hospitality professional with more than 25 years in the industry, Hippensteel has built a strong reputation for cultivating industry partner- ships and supporting interna- tional, leisure and student travel markets. Her expertise spans trade sales, destination marketing, revenue growth and collaborative tourism development. "Grapevine has such a strong reputation as a welcoming and vibrant destination and it's easy to see why," said Hippensteel. "From its rich heritage to its one-of-a-kind expe- riences, there is something truly special here. I'm excited to join the CVB team and look forward to sharing Grapevine's story with visitors from around the world." Hippensteel most recently served as National Tourism Director for City Cruises, leading group tour sales across mul- tiple U.S. destinations and Toronto and brings more than 17 years of experience with Hard Rock Cafe focused on sales, marketing and tour and travel programs. "We are thrilled to welcome Tara to the team," said Heather Egan, Director of Leisure & International Sales for the Grapevine CVB. "Her depth of experience and long- standing relationships within the travel trade make her an incredible asset. Tara understands how to connect visitors to authentic experiences and that aligns beautifully with what makes Grapevine so special." For more information about Grapevine, Texas, visit GrapevineTexasUSA.com.