This week, I had the honor of appearing before the Missouri Senate for my confirmation hearing to serve on the Missouri Tourism Commission. It was a meaningful opportunity—not just to introduce myself, but to talk about something I care deeply about: Missouri, its people, and the powerful role tourism plays in our state’s future.
I am deeply grateful to Governor Mike Kehoe for appointing me to this role and for placing his trust in my ability to serve the state. His commitment to Missouri’s economic growth, communities, and long-term competitiveness was very much on my mind as I spoke with Senators during the hearing.
In those conversations, we talked candidly about the importance of tourism as an economic engine. Tourism is not just about leisure or marketing—it is about jobs, small businesses, rural and urban communities, tax revenue, and telling Missouri’s story to the world in a way that is authentic, compelling, and competitive.
The Role of the Missouri Tourism Commission
The Missouri Tourism Commission exists to ensure that our state’s tourism strategy is effective, accountable, and forward-looking. The Commission provides oversight, guidance, and accountability for how Missouri markets itself—both domestically and internationally—and how public dollars are invested to generate real economic return.
At its best, the Commission serves as a bridge:
- Between state leadership and local communities
- Between strategy and execution
- Between public investment and measurable outcomes
When tourism dollars are deployed wisely, they ripple outward—supporting hotels, restaurants, distilleries, wineries, attractions, festivals, transportation providers, and countless small businesses that form the backbone of Missouri’s economy.
A Strong Team, Doing Important Work
One point I made repeatedly during the hearing is that Missouri is fortunate to have a talented, dedicated team at the Missouri Division of Tourism. These professionals work hard every day to promote our state, manage partnerships, and stretch limited resources as far as possible.
My focus, if confirmed, is not to micromanage or second-guess that team—but to support them, challenge them constructively, and help create the conditions for even greater success.
Support does not mean complacency. Encouragement does not mean lack of scrutiny.
Continuous Improvement, Innovation, and Accountability
The tourism landscape is changing rapidly. Audiences consume content differently. Travel decisions are increasingly shaped by digital platforms, data, social media, and experiential storytelling. States that succeed are those that adapt, test, learn, and evolve.
I believe Missouri must:
- Continuously evaluate what is working—and what is not
- Embrace new technologies, platforms, and data-driven decision making
- Reach new and emerging audiences without losing sight of our core strengths
- Measure outcomes, not just activity
Equally important is accountability. Missouri taxpayers deserve confidence that their dollars are being spent responsibly, equitably, and with clear goals and measurable results. Ensuring that accountability is not a criticism of the system—it is a core responsibility of the Commission.
Looking Ahead
I am grateful to the Senators who took the time to meet with me, ask thoughtful questions, and engage in a substantive discussion about Missouri tourism. Their interest reflects how vital this work is to the state’s economic future.
If confirmed, I intend to serve with humility, energy, and focus:
- Supporting a strong and capable team
- Encouraging innovation and continuous improvement
- Ensuring transparency and accountability
- Championing Missouri—its communities, its stories, and its economic potential
Missouri has extraordinary assets. Our responsibility is to tell that story better, reach further, and deliver results that benefit the entire state.
I look forward to the opportunity to serve.