Tourism Advocacy Conversation with Industry Professionals

What does effective tourism advocacy look like today? In this Community Conversation, we brought together leaders from the tourism industry to discuss how advocacy can strengthen destinations, build community trust, and create long-term impact. Drawing on experiences from Buffalo, Milwaukee, the Adirondacks, and the national transportation sector, panelists shared practical examples of how collaboration, storytelling, and relationship-building can help tourism organizations navigate challenges and elevate their role within their communities. Key Takeaways: ~Advocacy is about more than legislation—it starts with relationships. ~Tourism organizations are increasingly serving as community conveners, connecting residents, businesses, nonprofits, and stakeholders around shared goals. ~Data matters, but stories make the impact real. Translating economic impact into human outcomes helps build support and understanding. ~Cross-sector collaboration creates stronger destinations and unlocks opportunities that no organization can achieve alone. ~Resident sentiment, community pride, and quality of life are becoming just as important as traditional tourism metrics. Throughout the conversation, panelists explored topics including tourism funding, transportation policy, community engagement, economic impact, resident advocacy, destination stewardship, and the evolving role of tourism organizations in shaping thriving communities. They also shared actionable ideas for building partnerships, engaging nontraditional allies, and demonstrating tourism's value to decision-makers and residents alike. Whether you're a destination marketer, attraction leader, tourism business, association professional, or community advocate, this session will leave you with practical strategies and fresh perspectives on strengthening tourism through advocacy. Panel Guests: Hillarie Logan-Dechene – The Wild Center Patrick Kaler – Visit Buffalo Niagara Steven Coyle – American Bus Association Tony Snell Rodriguez – Visit Milwaukee