Dutchess Tourism Announces New Board Members and Leadership for 2025

Dutchess Tourism, Inc. (DTI) is proud to announce the appointment of new members to its Board of Directors and the selection of its governance team for 2025 at their annual meeting on January 31, 2025. With a dynamic mix of expertise spanning higher education, marketing, nonprofit leadership, and destination management, the new additions will help guide DTI into an exciting future in the organization's 10th anniversary of incorporation this year.

Joining the Board of Directors this year are:

• Jocelyn Heyward, Senior Brand Manager, Dassai Blue (Hyde Park) 
• Mallory Maggiacomo, Executive Director of Graduate Admission & Corporate Outreach, Marist University (Poughkeepsie)
• Lori Robertson, Executive Director, Walkway Over the Hudson (Poughkeepsie)
• Wendy Troncone, Director of Marketing, Adams Fairacre Farms (Poughkeepsie, Wappingers Falls)

These new board members bring valuable expertise in community engagement, strategic partnerships, and brand development, which will strengthen Dutchess Tourism’s efforts to attract visitors and support the county’s vibrant tourism economy. 

Melaine Rottkamp, president & CEO of Dutchess Tourism, Inc., welcomed the new board members, saying, “Each year, we look forward to collaborating with our board members, who bring a wealth of experience and fresh perspectives to our organization. With this talented team in place, I am confident that Dutchess Tourism will continue to innovate and grow, ensuring that our county remains a must-visit destination.” She added, “I want to extend a special thanks to Kevin Allan for this leadership as our board chair for the past two years as well as Gaye Mallet, who served as our 1st vice chairperson and is stepping off the governance committee.”

Dutchess Tourism plays a critical role in supporting the region’s economic vitality, workforce development, and community identity as a dynamic place to live and work. In 2023, visitors spent $756 million in Dutchess County, supporting over 1,200 tourism-related businesses, nearly 10,000 jobs, and generating $93 million in state and local taxes. This revenue helped reduce the tax burden on residents by $817 per household while enhancing public services. The impact of destination promotion extends far beyond the tourism sector, benefiting visitor-related businesses, their suppliers, and the broader community. Through strategic marketing initiatives, partnerships, and advocacy, Dutchess Tourism continues to drive sustainable growth and position the county as a premier destination.

The newly appointed officers of the board include:

• Chairperson: Brandon Walker, Chef/Owner B&L Hospitality, Essie’s Restaurant
• Past Chairperson: Kevin Allan, CEO, Changing Our World
• 1st Vice Chairperson: Danielle Strauch, Esq., Partner, Van DeWater & Van DeWater, LLP 
• 2nd Vice Chairperson: Seif Fakhoury, Sales Executive, Courtyard by Marriott and Residence Inn by Marriott
• Treasurer: Brent Caster, General Manager, Bonura Hospitality Group
• Secretary: Dennis Macheska, Associate Dean of the College for Campus Activities, Vassar College

Allan expressed his gratitude for the board’s dedication and commitment, stating, “It has been an honor to serve as chair of Dutchess Tourism. I am incredibly proud of the work we have accomplished together to elevate Dutchess County as a premier travel destination. I congratulate Brandon Walker on his new role as chair and have full confidence that, under his leadership, the board will continue to make great strides.”

Walker shared his enthusiasm for the year ahead, saying, “I am honored to lead Dutchess Tourism’s Board of Directors at such a pivotal time. Tourism continues to be a major driver of our local economy, and I look forward to working alongside this dedicated team to further our mission of showcasing all that Dutchess County has to offer. The future is bright, and I am excited for the opportunities ahead.”

As DTI enters its next chapter, the organization is excited to invite industry partners, community leaders, and tourism stakeholders to its upcoming Tourism & Trends Conference and 10th Anniversary Celebration on April 3, 2025, at The Grandview in Poughkeepsie. More details on this milestone event will be announced soon.

For more information about Dutchess Tourism, Inc., visit dutchesstourism.com.