POUGHKEEPSIE – Dutchess Tourism, Inc. announced that Vice President Melaine Rottkamp will succeed Mary Kay Vrba as the non-profit’s new president and CEO, effective July 21.
The Board of Directors unanimously chose Rottkamp after conducting an extensive transition and search process in accordance with the organization’s succession plan.
Rottkamp has filled many roles since joining Dutchess Tourism more than eight years ago including that of office manager, as the director of special events, outreach and administration, and most recently as vice president. In her current role, she manages the agency’s branding, advertising and marketing efforts. She also leads the organization’s many business support and education programs including National Travel & Tourism Week activities, the annual Dutchess Tourism Awards of Distinction, the long-running Lunch & Learn Seminar Series, the Hudson Valley Tourism Trends Conference, and the Hudson Valley Film Industry Conference.
Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro said, “While Mary Kay Vrba’s departure is bittersweet, following more than 25 years with Dutchess Tourism, we are thrilled to see Melaine Rottkamp ascend to become DTI’s new president and CEO. Melaine’s passion for Dutchess County and its world-class attractions is unparalleled; and with nearly nine years at Dutchess Tourism, Melaine will bring experience that will continue to propel this vital organization forward.”
