Reflections from the 2025 NYS Tourism Conference from Event Co-Chair Greg LaDuca

As the 2025 New York State Tourism Conference concludes, I’d like to share a few heartfelt thank you ’s, offer some well-deserved congratulations, and leave you with an important reminder.

First and foremost, thank you to the NYSTIA staff. As Board Chair, I see firsthand that planning this conference is no small task. Over the past 12 months, the NYSTIA team has worked tirelessly - recruiting top-notch speakers, engaging dynamic partners and underwriters, crafting exceptional activities and menus with our host destination, and adapting seamlessly as circumstances changed. I could go on, but I’ll simply say: Well done, Bob, Rachele, Brooke, Nate, and Chloe—well done!

A huge thank you to our event committee, all of our partners, our host DMO from Ontario County - Finger Lakes Visitor Connection, and our host venue, Hotel Canandaigua. We truly could not have done it without you! Your contributions elevated the entire conference experience—from providing outstanding facilities, to planning and supporting our immersion activities, meals and receptions. Beyond your financial support, your personal engagement helped create a spirit of collaboration and enthusiasm that everyone felt. A special shout out to Scholarship Auction Committee Co-Chairs Jennifer Ackerson and her Alon Tourism Solutions team, James Sauter and the Rove team and to Kelly Rapone from the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce. Together with our auction donors, bidders and auctioneer Carrie Hessney—you raised an astounding $25,000!

And finally, thank you to all of our attendees. Thank you for prioritizing this conference and investing your time. Without you, there would be no conference. I hope you leave with new insights about the state of New York’s tourism industry, new connections among your peers, and an expanded network to help you in the year ahead.

Congratulations to Val Knoblauch on her retirement! After more than 40 years with Finger Lakes Visitors Connection, Val is moving into her next chapter—but certainly hasn’t slowed down yet! As the co-chair and host for this year’s conference, she and her team provided a truly first-class experience in Canandaigua, showcasing the best of the Finger Lakes region. Congratulations again, Val—and thank you to the entire FLVC team for making this conference so memorable.

And a final reminder: “Membership is Everybody’s Business”. If you know someone in your community who should have been at this year’s conference—or who could benefit from NYSTIA membership—please reach out to me or any member of the NYSTIA staff. Let’s continue to grow our incredible community.

I’m Greg LaDuca, your 2025 NYSTIA Board Chair—and that’s news to me!