After 22 years of service to the Dutchess County Tourism Promotion Agency, Executive Director Karen Woods has announced her decision to retire at the year’s end.
Under the Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation, Dutchess County Tourism began in 1984 under Woods’ leadership.
Since then, Woods, an accredited tourism planner, has been responsible for initiating and maintaining marketing programs to bolster tourism within Dutchess County. Currently, more than 3.6 million tourists flock to the county each year, spending an annual sum of approximately $406 million at local entertainment, food, lodging and shopping sites.
“The pleasure I’ve gotten from doing the kind of work I do comes from the people, the businesses, getting to see our county grow,” said Woods.
She credits her accomplishments to a number of sources, including foremost Dutchess County, which funds both the EDC and TPA.
“You don’t do these things by yourself,” said Woods. “The county has always been generous in their funding, and in their support. A number of people, legislators and businesses have led to the success of the past 22 years. A lot of what we’ve done wouldn’t have been possible without their support.”
Though she is retiring from her position, Woods does not intend to vanish from the tourism industry altogether.
“This is my home. I’m not going anywhere,” said Woods. “I want to give back to the community – whether by consulting or doing pro bono work, I want to stay involved.”
Woods served on the New York State Travel and Vacation Association’s board of directors for 11 years, where she held the titles of president and vice president. She currently serves on the National Heritage Area Management Advisory Committee, the National Heritage Area Scenic By-Ways Committee and is a member of the board of directors for the New York State Tourism Promotion Agency Council.
Mary Kay Vrba, currently the Dutchess County Tourism assistant director, is slotted to step into the executive director position when Woods retires. Woods expressed the utmost confidence in her colleagues, though she cannot anticipate what their plans for the county might entail.
“I’ve been very blessed with my staff, and I’m sure they will carry on in a great fashion,” said Woods.