Brand USA, the nation’s destination marketing organization, announced new leadership including Elliott Ferguson as board chair for a one-year term. Ferguson, CEO of Destination DC, was recently appointed to lead the board alongside Vice Chair Lauren Bailey, Treasurer Kristen Esposito, and Secretary Allen Orr.

“Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo has selected outstanding leaders to join the board and guide Brand USA in marketing the U.S. globally,” said Alex Lasry, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism at the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Translation: Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo has selected five outstanding industry leaders to join the Board of Directors and help guide Brand USA as it markets the United States as the premier travel and tourism destination around the world.

Brand USA aims to welcome 90 million visitors by 2027 as part of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Travel and Tourism Strategy.

New Board Members:

• Todd Davidson - CEO, Travel Oregon (Reappointment)
• Elliott Ferguson - CEO, Destination DC (Reappointment)
• Lauren Bailey - CEO and Co-founder, Upward Projects (Reappointment)
• Danny Hughes - President, Americas, Hilton (New Appointment)
• Gus Antorcha - President, Princess Cruises (New Appointment to fill a remaining term).

Ferguson emphasized a commitment to promoting safe and welcoming travel in the U.S. while exploring growth opportunities related to international meetings and markets.

This shift towards recovery and growth aims to positively impact the U.S. economy and bolster jobs globally.