The Bow Valley has considerable representation on the newly-named Alberta Strategic Tourism Commission with four recognizable local names on the roster.
Canmore Business and Tourism CEO and president Andrew Nickerson, CBT chair and manager of the Delta Lodge in Kananaskis Dan DeSantis, Brewster Travel Canada president David McKenna and director of the National Park Ski Area Association Crosbie Cotton make up part of the 17-member commission.
“I am obviously thrilled to have been appointed to the ASTC,” Nickerson said. “Really looking forward to working with such a dynamic team as we look to build Alberta’s tourism economy. Very excited that both Dan and myself have been selected – it shows great recognition of the work we have done in the region over the past three years.”
The council, formerly knows as the Strategic Tourism Marketing Council, was renamed and given an expanded mandate in October as part of the Alberta Tourism Framework. Its mandate is to provide advice to Minister of Tourism Parks and Recreation Richard Starke and Travel Alberta. It works in partnership with business and government to support tourism marketing, product development and workforce training.
“Having a strong voice from tourism stakeholders across the province is critical to maximizing the potential of tourism,” Starke said. “Growing tourism means more jobs for Albertans, more revenue to fund programs and services Albertans want and need, and more festivals, events and activities for Albertans to enjoy.”
