OAK GROVE, Ky. — Traci Cunningham, 2023, President of the Kentucky Association of Convention and Visitors Bureau (KACVB), announced at the December KACVB state Tourism Director Meeting that Erin Carrico, Executive Director of Murray CVB has been honored with the prestigious KACVB Tourism Director of the Year Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the tourism industry. The award presented by KACVB underscored Erin Carrico’s dedication, innovation, and leadership in promoting the tourism industry.
“There were so many fantastic executive directors nominated for this distinct award, but there was no doubt who stood out above the rest and that was Erin Carrico. The Tourism Director of the Year Award is a testament to Erin’s exceptional achievements in enhancing the tourism landscape. When she became the KACVB President in 2021, the pandemic had all our offices running in circles, and we did not know the future of tourism. She stepped up when the industry needed her the most. Under her visionary leadership, she emerged as a beacon of resilience, resourcefully adapting and finding new ways to keep the tourism industry alive,” said KACVB President Traci Cunningham.
Erin played a pivotal role in legislative discussions, advocating passionately in Frankfort. Her foresight and advocacy significantly contributed to securing a monumental 75 (seventy-five) million in ARPA funding for Kentucky Tourism, again a testament to her persuasive skills and deep understanding of the industry’s needs.
“To be honored by my peers to receive the KACVB Tourism Director of the Year award is such an incredible gift. The people I have met and worked with all these years have become my closest friends and have given me the fire to fight tourism battles. I am lucky to have my tourism family. Tourism is in my blood and Kentucky is my heart,” said Erin Carrico.
As Erin Carrico continues to steer the City of Murray CVB initiatives to new heights, the KACVB Tourism Director of the Year award stands as a symbol of excellence and a source of inspiration for the entire tourism industry.
