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Galveston "Tourism Talks"

Mark your calendars for Thursday, May 9, 2024, and join us at the Galveston Island Convention Center for "Tourism Talk: State of Galveston's Tourism Industry."

This year's event zeroes in on the pivotal role of Community Partnership, Stewardship, and Sustainable Tourism in shaping the future of our local tourism sector.

Wifi: San Luis Conference Center
Password: gicc5600

About "Tourism Talks" 2024

Designed for hospitality and tourism professionals across Galveston Island, this day-long event offers a unique blend of networking opportunities, community engagement, and insightful presentations from industry leaders. Highlights include discussions on the benefits of investing in Galveston tourism, the latest trends in AI and social media, cultural arts, and heritage tourism, alongside a look into the operations of the Park Board.

Don't miss this chance to connect with peers, learn from experts, and be part of Galveston's tourism growth and sustainability efforts. We look forward to welcoming you to an informative and productive day at the 2024 Galveston Tourism Talks.

5 Reasons to Attend:

  1. Network and collaborate with Galveston hospitality and tourism pros
  2. Hear from local business owners and their growth plan for Galveston
  3. Get the scoop on the latest AI and social media trends
  4. Learn more about Galveston’s cultural arts and heritage tourism initiatives
  5. Engage with the community and brainstorm more ways to make Galveston a great place to live, work, and visit

Bonus features: Enjoy a complementary Tex Mex lunch and join us for a networking happy hour at 4pm. If you stick around long enough, you might spot a local celebrity.

Agenda

9:30AMRegistration Open – Coffee and water service in pre-function area
10:15 – 10:30AMWelcome and Introductions – Tony Lyle
10:30 – 11:15AM“The Benefits of Investing in Galveston Tourism”

Moderator: Christine Bryant – Chief Executive Officer, Vision Galveston

Panelists:

  • Ashley & Michael Cordray – Save 1900
  • Keath & Dave Jacoby – The Hotel Lucine
  • Stacey Winder – Amy Lane Boutique
  • Charday VanOrstrand – Galveston Island Brewing
11:15AM -12:00PMThe Future is NOW! AI & Social Media – Brian Matson, TwoSix Digital
12:00 – 12:45PMBuffet Lunch and Expo
1:00pm – 1:45PMKeynote: "Sustainable Tourism – Events with Impact" – Mr. Tim Trefzer, VP Sports & Venues, LEED AP Honeycomb Strategies
2:00 – 2:30PMCultural Arts and Historical/Heritage Tourism

Moderator: Mackenzie Finklea - PR Manager, Visit Galveston

Panelists:

  • Will Wright – Chief Creative Officer, Galveston Historical Foundation
  • Antoinette Lynch – Cultural Arts Coordinator, City of Galveston
  • Sam Collins III – Volunteer, NIA Cultural Center
2:45 – 3:45PMPark Board 101

Lead: Kimberly Danesi – Chief Executive Office, Galveston Park Board

Panel Members:

  • Nicole Charlebois – Parks Special Events Manager, Galveston Park Board
  • Elizabeth Schneider – Environmental Coordinator, Galveston Park Board
  • Tony Lyle – Executive Director, Visit Galveston
3:45PMTHANK YOU and Announcement of 2025 10th Anniversary Tourism Summit May 15th, 2025.
4:00 – 5:00PMSocial Networking and Refreshments

View Speaker Bios

Click here to register.

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