2024 Tourism Summit

Thursday, December 12th 2024

8:00 AM - 2:30 PM

Surry County Service Center in Dobson

915 E Atkins St, Dobson, NC 27017

Free Event, Free Lunch

A unique opportunity to hear from expert speakers in the tourism and hospitality industry and about marketing trends. The conference is available at no cost to Surry County tourism industry partners and regional partners. Registration is required (See form below).

Email [email protected] with any questions.

Hosted by Tourism Partnership of Surry County

Chris Cavaughn

Prior to founding Magellan Strategy Group in 2004, Cavanaugh served as vice president of marketing for The Biltmore Company in Asheville, NC, the owner of Biltmore Estate, America’s largest home. While at Biltmore, Cavanaugh helped guide the company’s marketing planning, strategy, and execution for almost ten years as part of an amazing team of talented people. During his time, the Biltmore team doubled its annual revenue and became the most visited historic house attraction in the U.S. Cavanaugh also directed marketing for the Inn on Biltmore Estate, a four-star hotel on the property, and the Biltmore Estate Winery, the most visited winery in the nation.

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Brian Lewis & Vince Chelena

Brian Lewis is the founder and principal officer of New Frame, a bipartisan lobbying and communications firm that serves North Carolina nonprofits and small businesses. Known for his creative approach, Brian effectively uses film and video to tell stories that drive legislation and communicate complex issues to the public. With years of political experience, he has played a key role in many of the state's high-profile policy debates. When he's not advocating for his clients, Brian enjoys spending time with his wife in Cary, NC, or catching waves at Tower 6 in Carolina Beach.

Vince Chelena is the Executive Director of the North Carolina Travel Industry Association and Co-Owner of The Management Office (TMO), which provides management services to associations across the state. With TMO, Vince oversees administrative, financial, and meeting planning functions for various organizations, serving as their headquarters. He also serves as Executive Director of the Charlotte Area Hotel Association (CAHA), representing the regional convention and tourism hotel industry. Vince's work is focused on fostering collaboration within the travel and tourism sector while providing vital resources and programming for his members.