Murphy named chairwoman of Kentucky Travel Industry Association

Sherry Murphy has attained a high-profile statewide position in her industry that she said will leverage her to better serve Elizabethtown.

Murphy, executive director of the Elizabethtown Tourism & Convention Bureau, has been named chairwoman of the Kentucky Travel Industry Association Board of Directors. She was formally introduced in the position at the association’s annual conference in Bowling Green late last month.

Murphy replaces James Wood, president and CEO of the Louisville Convention & Visitors Bureau, in the position, according to a news release.

KTIA is an 850-member association representing all facets of tourism in the state, serving as the advocate and unified voice for the industry by promoting collaboration and professional development in travel and tourism-related businesses, according to the news release

Murphy said KTIA stands as a champion for adventure tourism initiatives in the state and supports sale of alcohol at distilleries to promote adventure tourism.

Murphy said her role as chairwoman is similar to her duties for the ETCB, but magnified.

“It really just takes my role and expands it for the state,” she said.

Murphy has been a member of KTIA for 12 years and served on the board for several of those, according to the news release. There is a designated hierarchy to attain the position with board members ,first serving as secretary and treasurer, before being named chair-elect. Murphy said she will serve in the role for the next year and retain a position on the board as a past chair once her term concludes.

“It’s kind of been a little journey,” she said.

But she said she is ready to take the gavel and make a difference for tourism.

“It’s very humbling,” she said. “Tourism in the state is a very close-knit group, and I think that’s why we’ve been able to do as much as we have, because everyone knows everyone else.”

Murphy said the role assists Elizabethtown because those on the board know the inner workings of the industry and are made aware of changes and initiatives at the state level early.

“We’re kind of in the thick of things,” she said.

This, in turn, allows Elizabethtown to react quicker, take advantage of trends and have a stronger voice.

Mayor Tim Walker said the promotion speaks volumes of Murphy’s work ethic and talents and shows how dedicated she is to tourism in Elizabethtown and Kentucky as a whole.

“I’m proud of her,” he said.

Laura Cole, president and CEO of KTIA, said she is excited about working with Murphy in her new role.

“Her expertise in the tourism industry and wonderful leadership qualities will be a huge asset to the board,” Cole said in a statement. “I look forward to working hand in hand with Sherry this year to make KTIA an even greater association.”

Marty Finley can be reached at (270) 505-1762 or mfinley@thenewsenterprise.com.