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Visit Quad Cities has announced that its President and CEO, Dave Herrell, has been selected to serve on the Destinations International Board of Directors. Herrell will join a global group of tourism executives and destination experts responsible for supporting the growth, innovation and future direction of destination organisations and the international visitor economy.
The appointment was revealed during the Destinations International Annual Convention held in Portland, Oregon, where tourism professionals from across the world gathered to exchange ideas, discuss industry challenges and develop strategies to strengthen the future of travel and tourism.
“I am deeply honored to join the Destinations International (DI) Board of Directors,” said Herrell. “Our industry’s global association continues to deliver for destinations as well as for the thousands of professionals that serve their communities and organizations. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work alongside my colleagues and peers and DI’s talented professional team while representing the Quad Cities. DI has an extremely positive trajectory, and I am committed to serving its mission, members, and partners to help ensure its success.”
Dave Herrell, President and CEO of Visit Quad Cities, has been appointed to the Destinations International Board of Directors, creating a major opportunity for the Quad Cities region to gain stronger representation within the global tourism industry. Through this new leadership role, Herrell will help shape strategies that support destination growth, economic development, community benefits and long-term sustainability while working alongside some of the most influential professionals in the travel sector.
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The appointment places Herrell among a group of destination leaders responsible for guiding the future direction of the world’s largest association representing destination organisations. His role will focus on advancing best practices, supporting innovation in tourism management and helping communities maximise the economic and social benefits created by visitor activity.
Herrell’s appointment to the Destinations International Board of Directors highlights the growing influence of the Quad Cities as an important tourism destination in the United States. The bi-state region, which connects communities across Iowa and Illinois, has continued to strengthen its tourism identity through strategic marketing, destination development and regional cooperation.
As a board member, Herrell will bring the experience gained from leading Visit Quad Cities into a global conversation about the future of tourism. He will collaborate with industry experts, destination executives and tourism organisations to address challenges facing destinations while identifying new opportunities for sustainable visitor growth.
The position also provides a platform for Herrell to showcase the success of the Quad Cities model, where partnerships between communities, businesses and tourism stakeholders have helped create a stronger destination brand.
Since becoming the leader of Visit Quad Cities, Herrell has played a significant role in transforming the region’s tourism profile. His leadership has helped position the destination as a nationally recognised location for leisure travel, meetings, events and experiences.
Visit Quad Cities has focused on creating stronger marketing campaigns, improving destination storytelling and highlighting the unique attractions, culture and experiences available throughout the region. These efforts have helped increase awareness among travellers while encouraging visitors to explore the area’s diverse offerings.
The organisation has also built stronger relationships with local communities and tourism partners. Through collaboration, Visit Quad Cities has supported initiatives designed to improve the overall visitor experience while enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Tourism development under Herrell’s leadership has extended beyond promotion. The organisation has worked to strengthen regional identity, advocate for tourism-friendly policies and create opportunities that support economic prosperity.
One of the major achievements during Herrell’s leadership has been the continued growth of the Quad Cities visitor economy. Through focused tourism development and marketing programmes, Visit Quad Cities has contributed to a visitor economy valued at approximately $1.38 billion.
This economic impact demonstrates the important role tourism plays in supporting local businesses, creating employment opportunities and generating financial benefits across the region. Hotels, restaurants, attractions, transportation providers and local communities all benefit from a strong and growing visitor industry.
Visit Quad Cities has also played an active role in tourism advocacy by supporting statewide initiatives designed to expand economic opportunities through travel. These efforts have helped highlight the importance of tourism investment and the need for continued cooperation between public and private sectors.
The 2026 Destinations International Board of Directors includes experienced executives from leading tourism organisations, research companies and destination management groups. The three-year board term brings together professionals with extensive knowledge of marketing, economic development, visitor engagement and destination strategy.
The newly appointed board members include:
Together, the board members will work to strengthen the destination industry and provide leadership on issues affecting tourism organisations worldwide.
Herrell’s appointment represents a significant milestone for Visit Quad Cities and the wider region. His new role will allow the destination to contribute to international discussions about tourism innovation, sustainability and economic development.
As travel continues to evolve, destinations are facing new challenges including changing traveller expectations, increased competition and the need for responsible tourism growth. Leadership from experienced professionals like Herrell will help organisations adapt and create strategies that benefit both visitors and local communities.
With a stronger presence on the global tourism stage, the Quad Cities is positioned to continue expanding its reputation as a dynamic destination. Herrell’s appointment reflects the progress achieved through years of collaboration, strategic planning and commitment to building a successful tourism future.
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