Immersion Tour #5: Transformational Tourism Stewardship: Where M.I.C.E Meets Economic Development
Site: Oneida Indian Nation's Turning Stone Casino & Resort
Participants will visit Turning Stone Resort Casino to learn about the Turning Stone Evolution, a $370 million expansion project that will add a 258-room hotel and more than double the resort’s meetings and event space to 225,000 square feet, creating the largest meetings and convention resort space in New York State. During the visit, attendees will hear about the vision behind the project and how investments like this support tourism growth and economic development, followed by a panel discussion with tourism and industry leaders who will share insights on how destinations across the state are evolving to compete in the meetings, conventions, and events market.
M.I.C.E. = Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions
About the Presenters:
Monica Kurzejeski
Albany Convention Center Authority
Monica Kurzejeski is a visionary leader in urban revitalization and public service, with dedicated passion to people and places. As former Deputy Mayor of Troy, she concentrated on critical infrastructure and cultural projects, including the Troy Riverwalk, Marina reconstruction, and the South Troy Pool renovation. She also championed impactful public art installations like Breathing Lights and Dividing Line.
Monica notably scaled the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market into a regional powerhouse and beloved community gathering space. Now with the Albany Convention Center Authority, she continues to blend expertise in real estate and government to create thriving, people-centric spaces in downtown Albany.
Additional presenters to be announced.