.jpg)
The Tourism Board serving Lexington, Buena Vista and Rockbridge County is pleased to announce the appointment of Sheryl Wagner as the region’s new tourism director. She will begin her employment on Monday, Dec.11. She succeeds Jean Clark, who recently retired.
Wagner, a native of Rockbridge, brings over 27 years of tourism experience, with the last 16 spent as the director of tourism for the city of Staunton, where she successfully led tourism operations and generated positive economic growth. Her early beginnings in the industry began with significant contributions to the city of Lexington Tourism Department, where she advanced from Visitor Center manager to director of marketing. In addition to her extensive experience, she earned a bachelor of arts degree in business and economics from Randolph-Macon College and a master's degree in tourism administration from George Washington University.
“We are happy to welcome Sheryl to take the reins as our next tourism director,” said Shana Pardue Layman, chairwoman of the Rockbridge Regional Tourism Board. “Sheryl brings a level of experience and enthusiasm that we are certain will positively guide and shape the future of tourism for the Rockbridge area.”
“Wagner’s collaborative leadership style, strong focus on fostering and preserving relationships, passion for storytelling, and commitment to growing her hometown make her an excellent fit for the role of tourism director,” said a spokesperson. “Her wealth of experience will undoubtedly add value to the region, and aid in the continued growth of the local economy.”
“I am thrilled to be joining the Rockbridge Regional Tourism team,” remarked Wagner. “I grew up in the city of Lexington and made my home in Rockbridge County with my family, so I’ve seen the area grow firsthand over the years. I am excited for the opportunity to promote my hometown as the premier destination to visit in the Shenandoah Valley as I believe it is the perfect place to explore, create lasting memories, and build a career. It brings me great pride to commit the next phase of my career to be a part of making my hometown more vibrant and prosperous.”
“The tourism board is excited to see where Sheryl will lead the organization and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our community,” said the spokesperson.
