2026 Speakers

Barton Seaver is a globally recognized leader at the intersection of culinary innovation, sustainability, and public health. From his early days as an award-winning chef in Washington, DC, to his current work shaping the future of food systems, Barton has consistently reimagined the role of seafood on our plates and in our lives. As executive chef at acclaimed restaurants like Hook, he pioneered a new model for sustainable dining, featuring nearly 100 different seafood species in a single year. His efforts earned national acclaim, including being named Esquire’s Chef of the Year in 2009, and set a standard for how culinary excellence and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. Stepping beyond the kitchen, Barton expanded his impact on a global scale. As a National Geographic Explorer, U.S. Culinary Ambassador, Sustainability Fellow at the New England Aquarium, and Director of the Sustainable Seafood and Health Initiative at Harvard, he brought a chef’s perspective to the world’s most pressing environmental and health challenges. These roles deepened his belief in seafood not just as a meal, but as a medium for change. Today, his work has evolved into something broader: Seafood That Matters. While the seafood industry still faces challenges, Barton’s focus is now on the many producers, practices, and innovations that are getting it right. He sees seafood as a powerful lever—for addressing climate change, supporting women’s economic empowerment, improving brain health, and building more resilient food systems. Central to Barton’s philosophy is the idea that the health of our oceans is inseparable from human wellbeing. Every choice we make at the dinner table, he argues, has the potential to shape a healthier, more sustainable world. Through consulting, speaking, and education—including the founding of the Seafood Literacy program—he continues to advocate for a future where food is both nourishment and a tool for transformation. Now based in coastal Maine, just steps from a working waterfront, Barton remains deeply connected to the ocean that has long inspired his work. Whether in a classroom, a conference hall, or a kitchen, he reminds us that seafood is more than just a culinary delight—it’s a catalyst for restoring balance between people, planet, and plate.

As Chief AI Officer and SVP of Innovation at Brand USA, Janette spearheads AI-driven strategies to enhance tourism marketing, streamline internal operations, and foster innovation for the benefit of both Brand USA and the broader U.S. travel industry. She joined Brand USA from New York City Tourism + Conventions, where she oversaw the organization’s paid media strategy, programs and media insights to drive visitation across the five boroughs. Prior to joining NYC Tourism, she spent more than two decades marketing Broadway at organizations such as Broadway.com and AKA NYC.

Jane Anderson is the Director of Visitor Services for the Maine Tourism Association. She oversees the Association's visitor-facing activities, including the operation of the eight Maine State Visitor Information Centers, where MTA staff create a 5-star welcome and inspire visitors to explore more of Maine. Jane has been with the Maine Tourism Association for five years, joining the team after 25 years in sales and marketing leadership. In her free time she enjoys exploring Maine's outdoors and capturing photos of local wildlife.

Risteen Bahr brings more than four decades of leadership in marketing, public relations, communications, business development, and nonprofit management. She has guided major initiatives across Maine’s tourism, cultural, and business sectors, including key roles with Bangor International Airport, Bay Ferries Ltd., and the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce. She is recognized for strategic vision, effective project management, and community impact. A recipient of multiple community and statewide tourism and service awards including the Maine Office of Tourism Governor’s Award for Commitment to Community. Bahr holds a B.A. in History from the University of Maine and a Professional Certification in Museum Studies from Northwestern University.

Nicki Bean worked in hotels, resorts, restaurants, corporate hotel chains, sales and marketing for 20 years. She studied Economic Development & Tourism Management at Boston University. She began her career at an international travel company, progressed to corporate hotel chains, and has also worked and volunteered for local Chambers of Commerce and tourism boards in New England (including Portsmouth, Kennebunkport, and The Maine Beaches board of directors). Her passion is destination marketing, or collaborating to promote an area as a great place for people to visit year-round (and bring more economic benefits, businesses and jobs to that area). Now she teaches high school students all about working in the hospitality, travel and tourism industry. Students in her program at BRCOT get to partake in numerous field trips to local businesses, job shadows at The Lincoln Hotel, and a restaurant concept competition.

The Grant Manager for Maine’s MidCoast & Islands, Walter has worked with the Region for more than 20 years. He also puts his 40+ years of experience in marketing, branding, advertising and strategic, creative thinking in Maine to work as a fractional CMO for regional clients. A History major at Yale, he devours literary historical fiction, plays guitar in the Leopard Girls, a rock band with a poetic and political edge, and explores other countries by bicycle. He lives on Arrowsic Island, with his wife and sometimes 4 grown children, where he serves as First Selectperson.

The 2026 season will be Chris Cameron's 30th with the Portland Sea Dogs. The Maine native joined the organization as a part-time seasonal employee in 1996 and was hired full-time in January 1999 as the Sea Dogs Ticket Office Manager. In 2005, he was named the Public Relations Director of the Year for all Minor League Sports by MinorLeagueNews.com. Among Cameron’s duties, he oversees all of the club’s marketing and promotional efforts. Additionally, he is responsible for the customer service training of the Sea Dogs’ game day staff. Outside of the Sea Dogs, he volunteers for STRIVE, where he serves on the "Steering Committee".

Jason Clay is the Owner and Chief Executive Officer of Governor’s Restaurant & Bakery and Anglers Restaurants. A hands-on leader with deep roots in Maine’s hospitality industry, Jason oversees all aspects of operations, leadership development, marketing, and strategic growth across the company’s family of restaurants. Before taking the helm, Jason served as Governor’s Director of Operations, where he led initiatives in training and leadership development, menu innovation, and the adoption of new technologies. Prior to rejoining the Governor’s team in 2011, he gained valuable experience in the Boston area working for a quick-service restaurant concept and in food service at Harvard Business School. A native of the Bangor region and originally from Lincoln, Jason holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Maine and an MBA from Northeastern University. He is a proud graduate of the Bangor Region Leadership Institute (Class of 2013), currently serves as Chair-Elect of the Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce board of directors, and sits on the Old Town Development LLC economic development board. Jason lives in Brewer, Maine, with his wife Jolene, their daughter Harper, and their dogs Marv and Maggie.

Nate Cloutier is Director of Government Affairs for HospitalityMaine, a statewide trade association for Maine’s restaurant and lodging industry, where he handles state, local, and federal policy issues. He also leads policy work for the Maine Tourism Association, advancing priorities that support the state’s tourism economy. He has advised political campaigns and ballot initiatives and previously worked in government affairs at a private practice in Augusta. Cloutier lives in Topsham and serves on the board of the town’s business development corporation.

Michael Duguay, of Waterville, started his economic development career at DECD in 1990. Prior to being appointed as the Commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development, he most recently served as Vice President for Innovation and Executive Director of the Harold Alfond Institute for Business Innovation at Thomas College in Waterville. Prior to joining Thomas College in 2017, Duguay had an extensive career in business, economic, and community development in Maine. From 2012 to 2016, he served as Director of Business Development for Summit Natural Gas, where he managed a business sales team and directed the investment of $280 million in capital assets. Duguay served as Director of Economic Development for the City of Augusta from 1999 to 2012, attracting private housing development and business investment that added more than $200 million in value to the city's tax rolls. From 1990 to 1998, Duguay served as a project manager for DECD's Office of Business Development and Office of Community Development. From 1998 to 1999, Duguay served as the Executive Director of the Midcoast Council for Business Development, leading business attraction and expansion efforts in Bath, Brunswick, and Topsham. A native of Fairfield, Duguay is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire.

Khadija El Barkaoui is the Founder of Coelle Travel, an international travel social enterprise based in Portland, Maine, on the ancestral lands of the Wabanaki people. Coelle Travel designs community-based, purpose-driven travel experiences rooted in cultural connection, reciprocity, and sustainability, through its "Travel with Purpose" approach, with a focus on shifting tourism from consumption toward relationship. She holds a PhD in International Human Resources Management with a focus on cross-cultural integration, and brings a global perspective shaped by lived experience across Africa, Europe, and the United States. Her work bridges tourism, people strategy, and community development, with a strong emphasis on ethical and sustainable business practices. Her work also includes the "Vacationland with Purpose" initiative, reimagining Maine’s tourism identity by deepening the connection between visitors, local communities, and the natural environment. Her approach highlights environmental stewardship, cultural sustainability, and economic reciprocity, building on Maine’s long-standing values of care for land, heritage, and community. She was recognized as one of MaineBiz 40 Under 40 for her leadership and impact in the region’s tourism, business, and community landscape.

Kathryn Ference is the Director of Workforce Development for the Maine Tourism Association, a non-profit trade association that represents the hospitality and tourism industry in Maine. She works with its nearly 1200 member businesses in lodging, culinary, outdoor recreation, retail, and attractions to find creative ways to address workforce shortages and staffing challenges. Before coming to the Maine Tourism Association, Kathryn graduated from George Washington University and worked in the staffing and human resources industry. She is passionate about inspiring young people to pursue careers in the hospitality and tourism industry and loves connecting talent with great businesses in Maine.

Cecil Gardner joined Sunrise County Economic Council in May of 2023 after completing an internship with the Maine Office of Tourism and his Masters of Business Administration at the University of Maine. He finished his bachelor’s in environmental sustainability and sociology in 2010 from Loyola University in Chicago where he also focused on jazz drumming. Prior to joining SCEC, Cecil helped to launch two Greater Portland music venues, performed door-to-door sales across Southern Maine with Maine Green Power and Efficiency Maine, and organized some of the most successful electronic music events in Portland. He currently lives on Deer Isle with his girlfriend where they hike, cook, explore, and frequent businesses across the region. Fun fact: Cecil has played the drum kit for 26 years.

Tanya Griffeth is the owner of Association Management Solutions of Maine, LLC (AMS of Maine), founded in 2015. She serves as the part-time Executive Director of Maine's Kennebec Valley Tourism Council, a role she has held since 2008. Tanya earned her B.S. in Elementary Education from the University of Maine in 1997. As Executive Director, she is responsible for implementing the marketing grant awarded by the Maine Office of Tourism and leads efforts to promote and grow tourism across one of Maine's eight tourism regions. In her free time, Tanya enjoys spending time outdoors — whether it's boating, taking a motorcycle ride along Maine's back roads, or working on her farm.

Tina Hewett- Gordon is the General Manager at the Nonantum Resort in Kennebunkport and has held that position for the past 33 years. She is an active member of the hospitality community serving on various local and state boards. She currently sits on the board of directors for Maine Tourism Association, Hospitality Maine, President of Kennebunkport Business Association, Chair of Christmas Prelude and is active on committees at South Congregational Church and Special Surfers. She is the past President of the Maine Restaurant Association (now Hospitality Maine), past President of the Kennebunk Kennebunkport Arundel Chamber of Commerce. She has received numerous awards for service, two of the most notable being the State of Maine Governor's Award for Excellence in Tourism and the Joel Stevens Community Spirit Award. Her love of the outdoors draws her to many activities Maine has to offer and enjoys beach boot camp, cycling, kayaking, paddleboarding, skiing, gardening and cooking. During the winter months when the resort is closed you will find her on the slopes of Sunday River working as a Mountain Host on their Ski Patrol team. She has completed 10 triathlons, 2 half marathons and many 5k's. She and her husband K.C. are the proud parents of two daughters, Kyleigh and Norah and grandparents to granddaughter, Maisie!

Gabe Hoffman-Johnson, founder and chief community officer of Portland Hearts of Pine, always intended for Hearts to be a purpose-driven club that represents all those who have their hearts in Maine. For Hoffman-Johnson, using soccer as a force for good comes naturally: he is the son of Libby Hoffman, an international peacebuilder who founded Catalyst for Peace, and Seth Johnson, a collegiate soccer coach and athletic director. His family shaped his worldview, and his upbringing instilled in him an unquenchable desire to use the unifying power of the world’s game to make a difference in the world. Hoffman-Johnson was named two-time Maine State Player of the Year and two-time All-American at Falmouth High School while leading the Navigators to three state soccer championships. As a collegian he captained Dartmouth College’s men’s soccer team to multiple Ivy League championships and NCAA tournament appearances, while also collecting items from the Upper Valley community to donate to people in need in Africa. After graduating from Dartmouth, Hoffman-Johnson spent several years playing soccer professionally before briefly working in finance in New York City. In 2019 he returned to Maine and began the process of creating the hottest soccer team in America, one that has made waves in the international futbol community. In its 2025 inaugural season, Hearts established community programming, set league records for attendance and consecutive sell-outs, all while advancing to the playoff semi-finals and pulling off major upsets along the way.

Eva started working with MTA as the Lead Travel Counselor in August 2020 at the State Visitor Information Center in Fryeburg and was promoted to Visitor Center Manager in October of 2021. Eva grew up in the small mountain town of Stow, Maine, and graduated from Fryeburg Academy. She spent 10 years working in New York City, before returning back to Maine to settle down with her husband and son. Eva has years of experience in retail management, hospitality, and customer service. When she is not working, she can be found hiking the trails with her dogs, exploring some of her favorite towns in Maine, or trying out a new craft or hobby.

Anne Krieg is the Director of Community & Economic Development for the city of Bangor. She started there in 2019 as the City Planner and was promoted to Director in 2023. She previously worked in planning & development with a focus on tourism for the towns of Bridgton and Bar Harbor. Prior to moving to Maine in 2002, she worked for the towns of Reading and Danvers, and also worked in the private sector in campus planning, and, development site planning and permitting in the Boston area. Anne has been a speaker at many conventions on topics ranging from comprehensive planning to tourism development and affordable housing. Anne is a graduate of the State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry at Syracuse University and remains a huge SU fan.

Steve Lyons became Director of the Maine Film Office in 2024 after 25 years marketing the state with the Maine Office of Tourism, including seven years as Director of Tourism. In that role, he oversaw the Maine Film Office, a division within the Office of Tourism, Outdoor Recreation & Film. He now focuses exclusively on promoting Maine as a location for visual media productions. Steve’s passion for film began while accompanying his father to an American Film Market Location Expo and reading scripts brought home from the Vermont tourism office, which also managed the film office. One of his earliest memories is a script for “I Am the Cheese,” filmed in 1983 in his hometown of Montpelier and other Vermont locations. During college and beyond, he saw hundreds of films and even kept a running list that numbered in the hundreds. In 2014, Steve volunteered with the Emerge Film Festival in Lewiston and joined its board in 2015, helping bring filmmakers from around the world to Lewiston and Auburn. During the past two years at the Maine Film Office, Steve has reinstated the Maine Film Commission, drafted a recommendation for a more competitive film incentive in Maine and moved the film incentive application process online, all while responding to inquiries from filmmakers considering shooting in the state. He is currently collaborating with the Maine Film Association on an economic assessment of Maine’s media production industry and preparing to launch a pilot program designed to demonstrate the economic benefit of visual media production to the state. He is a member of FilmUSA, a non-profit organization representing film commissioners in the U.S., and the Association of Film Commissioner’s International, where he recently joined the Creative Economy and Policy Committee. When he’s not working or attending a film festival, he can be found hiking, biking, paddling, snowshoeing, skiing and sightseeing throughout Maine and beyond.

In his role with the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation, Jeff advances initiatives that preserve, promote and protect Maine’s extraordinary natural landscapes while driving sustainable growth in the state’s outdoor recreation economy. He works closely with public and private partners to position Maine as a national leader in four-season outdoor recreation and to ensure the benefits of this thriving sector reach communities statewide. A Registered Maine Guide since his early twenties, Jeff has long turned his passion for the outdoors into purpose: promoting the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, managing Lake George Regional Park and serving in the Maine House of Representatives. From mountaintops to Maine’s rivers, Jeff loves exploring all regions of the state with his family.

Ari is the Design Lead & a Partner at Naretiv. He specialize in the application of design thinking to complicated corporate challenges. That means that Ari create iconic logos, ads, and all design elements of brands. He LOVES to make milestone reports that combine design, illustration, and data visualization. Ari is an expert at taking complex information and translating into smart, easy-to-understand corporate communications. He has experience working with businesses and organizations of all sizes, from local Maine non-profits changing his community to global corporations changing the world.

Nigel Osborne is the Manger of the Maine State Visitor Information Center in Yarmouth. For over the past 5 years, he has also served as the Regional Partner Manager for the Maine Tourism Association, where he works closely with tourism businesses across the state to strengthen partnerships and support meaningful visitor experiences. With more than 40 years of leadership experience in the global travel and hospitality industry, Nigel has held senior executive roles with companies including Insight Vacations, Holland America Line, and Virgin Vacations. Today, he brings his deep industry knowledge home to Maine—connecting local businesses, communities, and travelers while helping both visitors and residents discover the state’s most memorable and lesser-known experiences. He moved to Maine with his family in 2002.

As Chief Marketing Officer for Visit Portland and Grant Manager for Greater Portland & Casco Bay, Dave leads brand strategy and tourism promotion with a focus on inclusive, human-centric storytelling. By pairing creative vision with high-performance digital tactics, he aims to drive year-round economic impact while showcasing the region's diverse culture and vibrant hospitality community.

Tracey Perry is the Project Lead for the Wabanaki Cultural Tourism Initiative (WCTI), an effort to advance authentic Wabanaki cultural representation in Maine's visitor economy centering Indigenous sovereignty, storytelling, and economic self-determination. In this role, she works in partnership with Four Directions Development Corporation and the Maine Office of Tourism and to develop resources, relationships, and infrastructure that support Wabanaki-led cultural tourism. Tracey also serves as Initiative Director for the Katahdin Collaborative, where she facilitates cross-sector partnerships among organizations, community members, nonprofits, municipalities, and businesses to strengthen the region's outdoor and cultural economy. A descendant of the Penobscot people, Tracey first came to know the Katahdin region in her youth and later as a student at the University of Maine. Those experiences deepened her understanding of the connections between cultural heritage, environmental stewardship, and sustainable economic development. Having lived across the United States and internationally, she brings a broad perspective to regional work while remaining deeply rooted in place. Tracey believes communities thrive when they honor both the landscape and the peoples who have called it home for generations. She and her husband have raised four sons and share their home with two rescued Rottweilers.

Whitney Raymond is Vice President at Marshall Communications, a Maine-based marketing and public relations agency, where she has worked since 2011. Marshall Communications manages media relations and public relations on behalf of the Maine Office of Tourism, helping share the state’s story with audiences nationwide and beyond. Whitney focuses on integrated communications for tourism marketing, with an emphasis on media relations, managing public relations efforts and overseeing organic social media strategy. In her work with the Maine Office of Tourism, she helps share the state’s story through earned media and digital touchpoints while aligning with Maine’s brand pillars and guidelines. She collaborates closely with agency partners and members of the tourism industry to ensure storytelling across platforms reflects a consistent and authentic voice for Maine. Whitney holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing Management and a Master of Business Administration from Thomas College.

A second generation hotelier, Cornelius Russell Sr. began his career in 1987 with Ocean Properties Hotels Resorts & Affiliates and has held management positions at multiple hotels in Maine, New Hampshire, Colorado, Arizona and Florida. He has been the General Manager at the Samoset Resort since 1999 where he has overseen numerous multi-million-dollar capital improvement projects, including the golf course, guest room and public space renovations and construction of La Bella Vita Ristorante, Enoteca wine bar, The Spa and Luxury guest cottages. Russell’s service on several boards of directors includes Past Presidency of the Maine Innkeeper’s Association, American Hotel & Lodging Association Resort Committee, Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce, New England Inns and Resorts Association, Maine State Chamber of Commerce, Penobscot Bay Hospital Board of Trustees, and First National Bank. He was awarded the 2010 Innkeeper of the Year by the Maine Innkeepers Association and the 2016 Community Person of the Year by the Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce. He and his wife Juliet reside in Rockport, Maine and have a daughter Jacqueline and son Connor. Connie was born in Bangor and attended Orono High School and the University of Maine graduating with a B.S. degree in Resource Economics.

Patrick Smyton is Director of Analytics at Tourism Economics, where he joined in 2021. He supports destination marketing organization (DMO) clients using the Symphony platform. He helps translate complex data into clear, actionable insights and provides strategic guidance to enhance client success. With over 20 years of experience in the tourism industry, Patrick brings deep knowledge of hotel operations, destination marketing, finance, and revenue management. He began his career in Las Vegas with MGM Resorts International and later served as Senior Director of Convention Strategy at Visit Seattle, where he aligned data and strategy to drive meetings and events growth. Patrick’s well-rounded background and consultative approach make him a trusted advisor to DMOs across the country.

Lisa Sturgeon is an award-winning educator, entrepreneur, and tourism strategist recognized by MaineBiz as one of the state’s 40 Under 40 for her leadership in business and community development. With a career nearly spanning two decades in marketing, event production, and destination strategy, she blends real-world business insight with a passion for education and sustainable destination development. As Chair of The Greater Bangor Region (The GBR) Steering Committee, Lisa has assisted in leading a collaborative initiative unifying 21 communities through strategic planning, brand development, and destination leadership. A Certified Hospitality Educator and faculty member at Husson University, she teaches marketing and tourism management while mentoring future leaders in Maine’s hospitality and tourism industry. Through both her business ventures and academic work, Lisa champions collaboration, creativity, and sustainable tourism as drivers of economic vitality and community pride.

Lynn Tillotson is the President & CEO of Visit Portland, the Destination Marketing Organization for Greater Portland, Maine. With more than three decades of experience in tourism and hospitality, Lynn has built a reputation as a collaborative leader, a strategic thinker, and a champion of community-driven tourism. Since joining Visit Portland in 2002 and becoming CEO in 2013, she has led the organization through significant growth, innovation, and industry recognition. Under her leadership, Visit Portland helped establish Maine’s first Tourism Development District, securing a sustainable funding model to elevate the region’s marketing efforts and support local businesses. Prior to her role at Visit Portland, Lynn built her career in the hotel industry, advancing through operations, catering, and convention services at the Orlando World Center Marriott, the world’s largest convention hotel. During her 14 years there, she worked directly with event planners, managing conferences ranging from 500 to 5,000 attendees. That hands-on experience continues to inform her practical, people-first approach to leadership. In 2025, Lynn received the Maine Office of Tourism’s Governor’s Award for Tourism Excellence in recognition of her leadership and contributions to the state’s tourism industry. She currently serves on the boards of the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Maine Tourism Association, and Cruise Portland Maine. She also serves on the advisory boards for the University of Southern Maine’s Hospitality & Tourism program, the University of Maine’s Tourism, Hospitality, and Outdoor Recreation (THOR) program, and the Biddeford Regional Center for Technology. In addition, she participates in Destinations International’s Advocacy Committee and the Greater Portland Business Education Collaborative.

Juan Vargas is the Account Director on the Consulting team at Miles Partnership, where he leads inclusive marketing and audience diversification strategies for destinations across the U.S., including the Maine Office of Tourism. With a background in community development, Juan focuses on building welcoming, community-centered pathways that connect diverse travelers and local residents to destinations and their outdoors. He specializes in helping destinations understand shifting demographics, inclusive visitor behaviors, and the growing participation of women, LGBTQ+, and multicultural audiences in outdoor recreation. His work blends partnerships, creator programs, and inclusive marketing strategy with authentic storytelling to expand access, representation, and economic impact. Juan believes a resilient outdoor economy is one that gives everyone the opportunity to feel they belong.

Seth Walton is an outdoor educator and public-sector professional whose career spans outdoor leadership, public safety, maritime, education, nonprofit management, and government administration. He is the founder and lead instructor of a certificate-granting Outdoor Leadership Program at the MidCoast School of Technology. The two-year program emphasizes community partnerships to form workplace pathways and focuses on wilderness medicine, SAR and technical rescue, paddlesports, navigation, climbing, and sailing. A Registered Master Maine Guide, Seth has led ocean and inland expeditions and trainings for more than two decades. He volunteers with Maine Island Trail Association and Coastal Mountains Search and Rescue.

Sarah is the Deputy Director and started with FDDC initially as Grants Manager in January of 2023. Sarah came to FDDC from a career in education, during which she served in various teaching and leadership roles in tribal and public schools, higher education, non-profits, and government. Sarah has a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and American Studies from Trinity College in Hartford, CT, and a Master of Education degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Maine at Orono. Sarah brings to her work a passion for serving tribal communities and diverse experiences in grants management and program design. She believes deeply in FDDC’s mission and is excited to work daily towards it. Sarah enjoys spending time with her daughter, Maddy, and their dog, Sherman.

Nicole Porter joined the U.S. Travel Association in 2021 and serves as Vice President of Political Affairs, where she leads the development and execution of all grassroots and political engagement strategies. In this role, she drives nationwide advocacy efforts that mobilize industry voices to bolster U.S. Travel’s advocacy efforts. Nicole oversees TravelPAC and the Travel Action Network, two cornerstone programs that educate policymakers on the economic, social and diplomatic importance of travel. Under her leadership, U.S. Travel has raised more than $2 million since 2021 to support the industry’s political engagement in Washington. She also leads major national advocacy initiatives, including Travel Works, U.S. Travel’s cross-country tour showcasing travel’s $2.9 trillion economic impact and Destination Capitol Hill, the industry’s premier legislative fly-in that welcomes nearly 500 industry advocates to Washington each year. Prior to joining U.S. Travel, Nicole spent nearly seven years at the National Retail Federation (NRF) where she was Senior Director, Political Affairs & Advocacy. In this role she served as a key political strategist, responsible for leading and developing advocacy and grassroots programs supporting NRF’s public policy goals, also overseeing NRF’s fundraising for political programs. Prior to NRF, Nicole was a campaign fundraiser for over a decade working with clients ranging from presidential, federal and statewide candidates.

Chris Adams is Head of Research & Insights at Miles Partnership, a global tourism marketing and management agency. Miles works with the Maine Office of Tourism as its marketing and advertising agency partner, and wide range of Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs), hospitality and other tourism clients across the US, Europe and around the globe. Chris has worldwide experience in senior travel and tourism roles across the US, New Zealand, Australia, the South Pacific, and the UK. This includes the last 20 years at Miles Partnership, the last 12+ as its Head of Research & Insights in charge of the company’s extensive research programs and partnerships. Recent studies include the “High Value” visitor - those who travel in the off season or “off the beaten” track, major studies on tourism taxation & funding, tourism & hospitality workforce and sports and music event travelers. Amongst a range of tourism and sustainability volunteer roles, Chris is on the US Travel’s Research Advisory Board and is co-founder of ‘Travel with Care’ – a major not-for-profit knowledge-sharing platform on responsible traveler education and marketing.

Erick Anderson is the Area General Manager for the Bay View Collection’s Camden, Maine portfolio, overseeing Lord Camden Inn, Grand Harbor Inn, and 16 Bay View. Since stepping into his role in 2010, Erick has led with a hands-on, people-first approach that balances operational excellence with a strong commitment to team development and guest experience. With more than two decades of leadership experience in hospitality, Erick is known for creating environments where both employees and guests feel genuinely cared for. He believes that exceptional service starts behind the scenes, which is why he places a strong emphasis on cultivating a supportive, collaborative, and growth-oriented workplace culture. Erick is particularly passionate about developing emerging leaders. He regularly designs and facilitates in-house leadership sessions focused on empowering middle management—many of whom have grown from line-level roles—by strengthening their confidence, communication, and ability to lead by example. His approach centers on modeling behavior, building trust, and creating opportunities for others to succeed. For Erick, leadership is not just about results—it’s about people. His commitment to fostering a culture of accountability, camaraderie, and continuous improvement has been a driving force behind the sustained success of the Bay View Collection’s Camden properties.

Sarah Bayliss is the Visitor Information Center Manager in Calais, Maine, and the Regional Partnership Manager for Downeast & Acadia. As a USTA Certified Travel Counselor, she brings a front-line perspective to visitor engagement. She is dedicated to fostering collaboration and promoting authentic experiences throughout Downeast Maine. In her free time, she enjoys exploring and hiking the Bold Coast of Maine.

Mark is a Naretiv partner. He spearheads the words department at Naretiv, taking the lead helping companies articulate their story in text formats, including slogans, straplines, mission statements, and general descriptions. He also helps oversee strategic brand management and creative development. Before Naretiv, Mark was a journalist for 20 years in Washington, DC.

Erik Burbank is a Southern Maine based line-producer, location manager/scout and Native Mainer. With over 25 years in media production management; he’s worked on hundreds of commercials, long form videos, music videos and print campaigns. Projects have run the gamut from 3-person crews doing intimate documentary work to multi-million dollar national spots, including: Honda, Sylvania, Hood, Taylor Swift, and Time Warner Cable. Of late his love of Maine and family has shifted his focus toward location work and sharing what Maine has to offer the larger media production community. With roots in the mid-coast he currently lives in Gorham with his wife, dogs and often visiting grandsons.

Tony Cameron is the CEO of the Maine Tourism Association. Tony started this role in March of 2020, after serving nearly five years as the Director of Marketing & Communications. He previously served as the Executive Director of the Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce and the Boothbay Harbor Region Chamber of Commerce, as well as the Director of Marketing and Membership Sales for the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce. He has over 17 years of destination marketing and association management experience. Before his career in tourism, Tony worked for 3 years in the front office for the Portland Sea Dogs. Tony lives in his hometown of Brunswick and is a proud graduate of Saint Joseph’s College of Maine with a degree in Marketing.

Born and raised on Moosehead Lake in Greenville, Hannah Collins brings a lifelong connection to Maine’s people, places, and traditions to her role as Deputy Director of the Maine Office of Tourism. She is passionate about strengthening the ties between communities and the tourism economy, and she finds her greatest inspiration when connecting with businesses, residents and local leaders who depend on a thriving, sustainable visitor economy.  Hannah’s work is grounded in sustainable tourism development and a deep belief that Maine’s future is shaped by the people who call it home. Traveling across the state is her favorite part of the job — especially exploring coastal towns and seaside communities she didn’t grow up near, balancing her inland roots with a growing love for Maine’s shores.  A skier, snowmobiler, and lake‑girl at heart, Hannah brings both professional expertise and personal passion to advancing tourism in a way that honors Maine’s character, protects its natural assets, and uplifts the communities that make the state extraordinary.

Steve is the Manager of DiMillo’s On the Water in Portland, ME. He has been working with the family business since age 8. He started washing dishes and worked virtually every department prior to assuming his current position. While Steve oversees all aspects of the restaurant, his emphasis is in customer service and he is committed to providing an enjoyable dining experience anytime a customer steps on board. Steve remains active in the community, serving on various boards and committees including serving on the board of the HospitalityMaine. A 1978 graduate of Deering High School, he resides in Portland with my wife Marge. When not at the restaurant, Steve enjoys spending time with his grandchildren, skiing, riding his motorcycle and boating with family and friends.

Dave Eid grew up in Auburn, Massachusetts, just a short distance from Portland, and knew from an early age that sports would be a central part of his life. Some of his favorite childhood memories include trips to Fenway Park with his father, brother, and sister, where the excitement of walking up the first-base ramp and seeing the iconic Green Monster for the first time never faded. A multi-sport athlete in his youth, Dave played both ice hockey and baseball. He attended St. John’s High School in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, earned his bachelor’s degree in Communications from Curry College in Milton, Massachusetts, and later completed a master’s degree in Broadcast Communications from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. After graduate school, Dave faced the challenge of breaking into television, sending more than 700 resumes and cover letters to stations across the country before landing his first opportunity. Encouraged by a friend working at a small television station in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, he made the move to the Midwest, where he interned nights while working days at the Holiday Inn. His persistence paid off. After just a few months, Dave was hired as a news reporter and soon promoted to the sports department. His career then brought him to WVII-TV in Bangor and Fox 51 in Portland before he joined WGME-TV in January 1996, where he has remained a trusted voice in Maine sports coverage ever since. Dave considers it a privilege to bring viewers the stories, moments, and excitement of sports each night. Whether covering the Super Bowl or a local state championship, he remains passionate about sharing the games and athletes that bring communities together.

Jacki Ewing opened the Maine State Visitor Information Center inside the brand new Acadia Gateway Center in Trenton last year. The new Center in Trenton is the only seasonal State Visitor Center, opening in May for its first full season, with Jacki as its Manager. Jacki has a rich background in people-focused roles across both the corporate and entrepreneurial environments, with four decades of experience in sales and leadership in business and non-profit organizations. An accomplished entrepreneur, Jacki founded three ventures: two in retail and one in hospitality and tourism. Outside of work, she is an avid traveler, a natural connector of people, a proud wife and mother, and fur momma to her beloved French Bulldogs, Maeve and Blue Spruce. A native New Englander, she and her husband call Mount Desert Island their home.

Casey Frye is the Marketing Director at Waterfront Concerts, bringing over a decade of marketing experience across Maine. A Husson University graduate with an MBA and a Bachelor's degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management, Casey started her career in Bangor working with the Cross Insurance Center and Waterfront Concerts before taking on roles at Bath Iron Works and Epstein Properties. Now back at Waterfront Concerts, Casey leads marketing efforts for some of the region’s biggest live events, combining experience across entertainment, industrial, and property marketing to create campaigns that connect with audiences and drive results.

Adam Goldberg joined the Mariners in June 2017 as the Vice President of Business Operations, eventually being promoted to CEO in 2024. In 2025, he was awarded the Blake Cullen Award, as the ECHL's Executive of the Year. Goldberg worked with Comcast Spectacor since 2006 when he was with the Philadelphia Phantoms of the AHL. He then moved to Memphis to work with the Memphis Redbirds, the Triple-A baseball affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals. Most recently, Adam worked with the Hartford Wolf Pack, the AHL affiliate of the New York Rangers. Born and raised in New Jersey before moving west and attending Arizona State University for a marketing degree. Adam is passionate about food and art and lives in Scarborough with his wife and three children.

Julie is an Ambassador for the International Inbound Travel Association (IITA) and former Deputy Director of the National Travel & Tourism Office at the U.S. Department of Commerce. With deep experience at the intersection of federal policy and the travel industry, Julie brings a comprehensive understanding of the national tourism policy ecosystem and the mechanisms that enable effective public–private collaboration.

After working at Funtown Splashtown USA for over 20 years, Ed Hodgdon started Hodgdon Consulting, LLC to help small businesses realize their potential. During his time at Funtown Splashtown USA, he worked his way up from seasonal cashier to Marketing and IT Manager, overseeing the park's advertising budget, marketing initiatives, media relations, special and group events, and IT infrastructure. Ed also is also the Secretary of NEAAPA - The Northeast's Entertainment Association, which is the premier regional trade association for the attractions industry. NEAAPA covers the six New England states and New York State. He has served in this role since 2011. Ed also serves on the Board of Directors for the Maine Beaches Association, the regional tourism group for the Southern Maine Beaches area. When Ed is not working, you can find him visiting theme parks and spending time with his family. Ed resides in Scarborough with his husband, Martin.

Rebecca Johns is the General Manager of The Lincoln Hotel, a Michelin Key boutique property in Biddeford, Maine, where she blends the precision of luxury retail operations with the warmth of exceptional hospitality. Before joining The Lincoln, she spent a decade in New York City running operations for a French-based fashion house, overseeing multimillion-dollar retail locations, product launches, and client experiences in an environment where excellence was essential. In moving to coastal Maine, Rebecca brought with her a deep commitment to detail, brand integrity, and guest satisfaction. At The Lincoln, she oversees all facets of hotel operations, from service standards and financial performance to team development and vendor partnerships. She has cultivated a culture that empowers staff to anticipate guest needs, create memorable experiences, and take pride in every interaction. Balancing strategic leadership with a hands-on approach, Rebecca continues to position The Lincoln as one of New England’s premier boutique hotels, delivering an experience defined by personalized service, thoughtful detail, and a genuine sense of place.

Noah Kleiner is the owner and founder of Equinox Guiding Service, an AMGA-accredited rock and ice climbing company based in Camden, Maine. With over 20 years of experience in the climbing industry, Noah holds multiple certifications through the American Mountain Guides Association, including Multi-Pitch Instructor, Ice Instructor, and Climbing Wall Instructor Provider. He is also a certified Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) Provider, making him one of the few professionals in Maine qualified to deliver nationally recognized guide training programs. Noah has partnered with the Midcoast School of Technology (MCST) to integrate professional guiding education into high school curricula, creating one of the first CTE-based climbing programs in the country. His work focuses on developing Maine’s next generation of outdoor professionals through mentorship, skill-building, and experiential education—helping young people find meaningful careers in outdoor recreation while supporting the state’s growing adventure tourism economy.

Hanna has been a part of the account service team with Miles Partnership for four years working closely with the Maine Office of Tourism on paid media campaigns, creative and content development, and overall strategy. She’s helped support the MOT team in developing and launching the evolved Look Out for ME campaign and toolkit, bringing the Leave No Trace principles to Maine and encouraging travelers to be a good guest.

Jean Ginn Marvin is a Maine-based hospitality leader, public servant, and community advocate with decades of experience in business, policy, and nonprofit leadership. A native of Portland, she is a graduate of Cape Elizabeth High School and Interlochen Arts Academy, where she earned a degree in trombone performance. Jean continued her education at Syracuse University’s Maxwell School, earning dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Political Science and Policy Studies, and later completed a Master of Public Policy at the University of Southern Maine’s Muskie School. She is also a graduate of the inaugural classes of both the Community Leadership Institute (CLI) and the Institute for Civic Leadership (ICL). Jean currently serves on the Executive Board of the Maine Community College System and has held numerous leadership roles across the region. She is the Past Chair of Hospitality Maine, New England Inns & Resorts Association, the Portland Symphony Orchestra Board of Trustees, the Portland Conservatory of Music Board of Trustees, and the Maine Community College System Board. She also serves on the American Hotel & Lodging Association Resort Committee. Her public service includes serving as a Cape Elizabeth Town Councilor and as a Representative in the Maine State Legislature, along with participation on several local commissions. Jean has spent the past 28 years as Innkeeper of the Nonantum Resort in Kennebunkport, a family-owned property known for its commitment to hospitality and community. Under her leadership, the Nonantum has been recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in Maine seven times and received the Governor’s Award for Economic Development for its role in launching Kennebunkport’s signature “Fire & Ice” event. Jean was named Maine Innkeeper of the Year in 2011 and received the Innkeeper’s Chair Award in 2017 for her leadership in unifying Maine’s hospitality industry. Jean and her husband, Bob, have been married for 42 years and are the proud parents of three children, three in-law children, and nine grandchildren. Outside of work, she enjoys skiing, yoga, pickleball, travel, and music. A lifelong musician, she plays euphonium in the Casco Bay Concert Band and leads fundraising efforts that support the Casco Bay Wind Symphony’s annual Fourth of July concert on Portland’s Eastern Promenade. She has also completed seventeen triathlons.

As a Maine native, Sheena grew up exploring the beaches and parks in the southern portion of the state. Being a lifelong equestrian, she spent any free time at the barn, riding or at horse shows. She developed her customer service skills in high school through her first job at a popular seafood restaurant. Through college at UMass Amherst, Sheena split her time between school, riding and working part time. After graduation her passions led her to positions as farm manager, riding instructor and veterinary assistant. Sheena’s unique career experiences led her to exploring more opportunities in Maine for personal and professional growth. Since joining the Maine Tourism Association, she helped open the new location of the Houlton Visitor Center in 2024. This year, she took on a new challenge representing Maine at several Travel and Adventure Shows. With her warmth and enthusiasm, she provides a premier customer service experience for all Maine Visitors. When Sheena is not at work, you'll find her spending time with her husband and Husky mix, Frankie. They enjoy exploring parks, trying new restaurants and trips to the local brewery.

Diana Norwood has been scouting and managing locations for photo shoots, commercials, TV, film & video productions in Maine for over 25 years.  She began her career in New York City Location Managing both small independent feature films and major studio productions. She has extensively covered the state of Maine for clients including LL Bean, Triumph Motorcycles, Volvo, Chevy, Ford, BMW, MaineHealth, Northern Light Health, Maine Tourism among many other local, national and international companies.  She lives in Brunswick with her husband, 2 teenage children and black lab.

Carolann was named the first director of the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation in 2018. As of June 1st, she will take on the role of the Director of Tourism, Outdoor Recreation and Film for Maine. A graduate of Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration, her career has included time as a whitewater guide, outdoor resort operations manager, restaurant chef/owner, and from 2010-2016 the Director of the Maine Office of Tourism. Carolann is a board and/or advisory committee member with the Maine Sports Commission, Maine Trails Coalition, University of Southern Maine’s Tourism & Hospitality Program, University of Maine Outdoor Leadership Program and is currently co-chair of the Confluence of States. She is a ski, snowmobile, hiking and paddling enthusiast, working on her fishing and hunting skills, and an avid traveler.

Jacob works collaboratively to tell the story of Maine’s Aroostook County and has the best job in the world. As the Tourism Developer for Northern Maine Development Commission, his work is to match local funding to state and federal grant programs to increase destination awareness, capacity, and develop the visitor experience. He believes tremendous growth is happening right now in visitation to rural Maine and that digital tools for mapping, storytelling, and trip planning are shaping a new generation of first-time visitors to experience The County. The region has bucked trends to increase the number of visitors and increase total economic impact since 2020, but in 2026 Aroostook is navigating new challenges from changing Canadian visitor sentiment. Originally from Mattamiscontis, Jacob relocated to Aroostook County in 2018 for work with the Mi'kmaq Nation to establish a Maine Brook Trout hatchery known as Mi’kmaq Farms. Jacob was awarded for best Digital Branding by Messiah University and in 2022 was awarded for his work in Maine farmers’ markets and local foodways as an Aroostook Achiever. Jacob relishes coffee as much as he loves snowboarding.

Mr. Picard brings decades of expertise in association management, strategic planning, and advocacy. As a seasoned leader in the non-profit and trade association sectors, he has successfully managed organizations of varying sizes across diverse industries. His career spans both consulting roles and full-time positions, where he has guided organizations through the development and implementation of strategic plans that drive measurable outcomes. In his role as a registered lobbyist, Curtis has specialized in navigating complex policy areas, including labor, environmental regulations, taxation, and business laws. He has built a reputation for effectively representing the interests of businesses while fostering productive relationships with policymakers. His ability to translate high-level strategic goals into actionable initiatives has made him a trusted advisor to organizational leadership. Currently, Curtis serves as the President and CEO of both the Retail Association of Maine and the New Hampshire Retail Association. In these roles, he advocates for thousands of businesses while leading efforts to address critical issues impacting the retail sector. His extensive experience in facilitation and consensus-building ensures that diverse stakeholders are engaged in shaping policies and strategies that deliver tangible results.

After a 20-year career in public higher education, EJ transitioned to a career in municipal government in August of 2019, focusing on Economic and Community Development. In December of 2025 he transitioned from the City of Old Town to the Town of Orono, where he took on the addition of Planning and Code Enforcement to complement his on-going work in Economic Development. Regionally, EJ serves on the Greater Bangor Recreation Economy For Rural Communities steering committee, the core team of the Greater Bangor Working Community Challenge Grant, is on the planning committee for the Big Gig, and serves on the board of directors for the Economic Development Council of Maine, the Maine Community Development Association, and the Bangor Target Area Development Corporation. He holds a B.A. in Business Administration and a M.Ed. in Higher Ed Leadership from the University of Maine. He is a 2023-2024 (Elephant Class) graduate of the Maine Development Foundations Institute for Civic Leadership. EJ lives in Old Town with his wife and three children.

Katie Shorey is the Director of Engagement at Live + Work in Maine (LWM) and a proud boomerang to the state. She returned to Maine after gaining experience in the political, nonprofit, and consulting sectors in Washington, D.C., and San Francisco. Prior to joining Live Work Maine, Katie served as the Business and Community Liaison for People’s United Bank and later worked at WEX on the New Business Ventures team. Katie is deeply involved in economic development efforts that support innovation, entrepreneurship, and talent attraction. She served as president of Startup Maine from 2018–2025, helping strengthen and elevate Maine’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. She is also a board member of the Portland Community Chamber and Junior Achievement of Maine.

Joseph St. Germain, Ph.D., is President of Downs & St. Germain Research (DSG), a tourism-focused market research firm supporting destinations across the U.S. with visitor tracking, resident sentiment, brand perception, workforce research, and economic impact analysis. Joseph joined the firm in 2007 (then Kerr & Downs Research) and has been involved in every stage of the research process, from study design and data collection to analysis, reporting, and executive-level presentations for DMOs, community leaders, and governing boards. With formal training in psychology and advanced quantitative methods, Joseph specializes in translating complex survey and behavioral data into clear, decision-ready insights. His work often blends rigorous analytics with practical storytelling, helping clients understand not only “what’s happening,” but why it’s happening and what to do next. He has extensive experience moderating focus groups and stakeholder discussions and is particularly known for making technical findings accessible to non-technical audiences. Joseph is an active leader in the travel and tourism research community, including service with the Travel & Tourism Research Association (TTRA) and the Southeast chapter (SETTRA), where he has held board leadership roles. Outside of the office, Joseph loves to golf, is a lifelong gamer, and can occasionally be found talking fantasy football. He enjoys bringing a little personality to professional settings, whether through an occasional sports analogy, a well-timed joke, or making research feel more approachable than people expect. He lives with his wife, Shanna, and their two pets, Jimmer and Kemba.

Alexandria Sukeforth is a passionate advocate for neurodiversity and outdoor accessibility. As a neurodivergent individual and mother to a child with Autism, her professional mission is deeply informed by personal experience. Alex is a Certified Direct Support Professional, works as a 1-on-1 support aide for a child with Autism in a forest school setting, and is the Co-Founder of Outdoor Access Solutions. She has also completed extensive coursework on neurodiversity and actively participates in organizations like the Maine Environmental Education Association (MEEA) Changemakers Network.

Bailey Underhill is the Director of Marketing at the Maine Tourism Association, where she’s spent nearly a decade working in the industry association world and supporting tourism businesses across the state. Over that time, she’s come to really value the experience and legacy of those who have shaped Maine’s tourism industry. As part of the next generation of leaders, she’s passionate about learning from that foundation and helping carry it forward—while building stronger connections across the industry along the way.

Ethan Vinson serves as the Regional Grant Manager with the Maine’s Lakes and Mountains Tourism Council and has held this position for over the past four years. He also works in economic development for western Maine through AVCOG, helping communities advance tourism-based initiatives. He collaborates with regional partners to identify opportunities and implement projects that support destination development and strengthen western Maine’s tourism economy.

As Social Inclusion Manager at Destinations International, Ava leads the strategic development, implementation, and evaluation of programs that advance Destinations International’s Social Impact mandate: empowering destination organizations to build welcoming, sustainable, and community-centered visitor economies. With over a decade of experience in member and partner engagement, including seven years in the tech industry advancing workplace inclusion and employee engagement, Ava brings expertise and empathy to her work. She spent three years in convention services at the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corporation, where she developed a passion for regenerative tourism, cultural vitality and community impact.

Peter C. Yesawich, Jr. ‘PJ’ is Executive Creative Director of Miles Partnership. He is a lifelong travel, tourism, and hospitality professional. PJ is a branding, marketing, and advertising executive with over 20 years of experience shaping global brands. As a lifelong creative agency and hospitality industry veteran, PJ leads cross-functional teams to develop compelling brands and campaigns that resonate with audiences and drive measurable results. PJ oversees creative for Miles Partnership, ensuring that every brand and creative initiative reaches its maximum potential online and offline. Previously, he served as VP, Executive Creative Director at Deloitte Digital, where he led the global Apple business from Cupertino, California. Over the past two years, PJ has also consulted as an executive creative director for multiple agencies and brands, further broadening his influence in the travel, hospitality, and tech industries. Throughout his career, PJ has guided strategy, branding, advertising, and marketing for Fortune 1000 brands—most notably in travel and hospitality, with clients including the Government of Costa Rica, Hilton International, Marriott International, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, and numerous other world-renowned organizations. His expertise lies in aligning creative vision with business objectives, crafting powerful storytelling, and delivering integrated multi-channel campaigns that solidify brand loyalty. PJ translates ideas into iconic brands, content, and experiences. He crafts innovative creative, design, and digital transformation strategies that drive growth and build brand loyalty.