Tour Cayuga’s newest Executive Director has been named.
Tour Cayuga, formally the Cayuga County Convention and Visitors Bureau, has announced Courtney Kasper has been appointed to serve as its next Executive Director, effective September 29.
“I am honored and excited to step into the role of executive director at Tour Cayuga. I’m passionate about travel and tourism, and living in an area with such rich history and natural beauty is a point of pride. Joining the tourism office is an incredible opportunity to work alongside a dedicated team and board, and I’m enthusiastic about the organization’s five-year strategic vision. I look forward to continued collaborations with colleagues and strengthening partner relationships to collectively promote Cayuga County,” said Kasper.
Kasper, who has most recently served as the Visitor Experience Manager at the New York State Equal Rights Heritage Center, has over 15 years of leadership experience in tourism, cultural heritage, and community engagement. While serving at the heritage center, she not only oversaw day-to-day operations but also helped elevate community events such as Brace Brews and the Harriet Tubman Bicentennial.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am thrilled to welcome Courtney Kasper as the next Executive Director of Tour Cayuga,” said Erin Katzker, Chair of Tour Cayuga’s Board of Directors and Managing Director of The REV Theater Co. “Courtney brings a deep passion for our region’s rich cultural and agricultural heritage, paired with an exceptional talent for authentic storytelling that powerfully connects with both residents and visitors. We are confident that under her leadership, Tour Cayuga will continue to grow, thrive, and advance its mission, shining a spotlight on everything Cayuga County has to offer.”
Kasper is deeply committed to the county and community, serving on the Cayuga County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the Auburn Chamber Orchestra Board of Directors, and chairing the Auburn Downtown BID DEIB Committee.
The search to replace the outgoing Karen Kühl saw over 60 applicants from across the nation apply for the position. Kasper was selected following a months-long review and interview process.
“I’m so pleased that Courtney will be leading Tour Cayuga into its next chapter,” said Karen Kühl, outgoing Executive Director of Tour Cayuga. “I know she will carry forward our commitment to making tourism a true driver for this community and add her own vision to take it even further.”
Kasper received her Master of Arts degree in Journalism from Syracuse University and her Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Florida State University.
In 2023, she received the Terri Bridenbecker Young Professional Award for her leadership and contributions to Cayuga County.
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