Visit Vicksburg’s Laura Beth Strickland to serve as president of Mississippi Tourism Association

JACKSON, Miss. (VDN) — The Mississippi Tourism Association (MTA), the state’s voice of tourism for over 35 years, is pleased to announce its elected board of officers for 2025-2026. Visit Vicksburg’s Executive Director, Laura Beth Strickland, has been selected to serve as the state association’s president starting July 1.

Strickland joined the Vicksburg Convention and Visitors Bureau (VCVB) in November 2009. A Vicksburg native and proud Mississippian, her experience and passion for growing our tourism industry is not only a professional goal, but also a personal goal. As executive director, she serves on countless boards representing Vicksburg including Mississippi Tourism Association, Mississippi Delta National Heritage Area, and Capital Area Tourism Association.

Strickland graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2008 with a Bachelor of Liberal Arts degree in Journalism and English with an emphasis in Public Relations, Mass Media, and News Reporting. Laura Beth is a native of Vicksburg and a 2004 graduate of St. Aloysius High School. She is married to Michael, who farms in Vicksburg. They are parents to May (8), Michael (7), and twins Hunter and Hadley (3).

The MTA Executive Board also includes the following members:

• Kurt Allen, President & CEO – Mississippi Aquarium: President Elect
• Paige Hunt, Director of Tourism – Visit Starkville: Vice President
• Kinney Ferris, Executive Director – Visit Oxford: Secretary/Treasurer
• Rickey Thigpen, President & CEO – Visit Jackson: Past President

In addition to executive board leadership, the MTA Board of Directors is comprised of three members from five regions throughout the state, as well as three at-large positions.

“Tourism continues to be a cornerstone of Mississippi’s economy, generating billions in revenue and driving opportunity across every region of our state,” said Danielle Morgan, Executive Director of the Mississippi Tourism Association. “This progress is the result of tireless work by our tourism professionals and the shared commitment of state and local leaders who recognize the value of investing in our industry. As we enter a new year, we are proud to welcome a dynamic slate of leaders who bring energy, insight, and a deep understanding of both the opportunities and challenges ahead. Their guidance will help us strengthen our industry, support our members, and build a more connected and resilient tourism economy. The continued dedication of our volunteer leadership is vital to our mission, and with this outstanding team in place, MTA is poised for another impactful year of growth and collaboration.”

“Mississippi tourism plays a vital role in driving the state’s economy, contributing significantly to job creation, local businesses, and overall economic development,” President Laura Beth Strickland said. “I am excited and honored to serve as this year’s president of Mississippi Tourism Association as we work to enhance the guest experience through our workforce development programs and celebrate Mississippi’s distinctive blend of Southern hospitality, rich history, and vibrant culture. The goal is to foster innovation and collaboration across all sectors of the industry—from hotels and restaurants to entertainment and local attractions—ensuring that visitors enjoy a memorable, seamless experience. The tourism industry is expected to continue its positive impact, generating billions in revenue and supporting thousands of jobs across hospitality, retail, and service sectors. From major attractions to small, locally owned businesses, every part of the tourism ecosystem benefits from the influx of visitors. Leading the hospitality industry in Mississippi is an incredible responsibility and opportunity to shape the future of tourism and service excellence in the state. I am looking forward to working together to strengthen Mississippi’s position as a competitive destination in the national and global travel markets as well as support destinations that people not only want to visit but also will choose to live.”