Drew Hays, sports sales manager for Visit Wichita, was one of 30 young tourism professionals recently named to Destination International’s 2017 “30 Under 30” class and recognized at the organization’s annual convention in Montreal, Canada.

“Drew’s selection as a member of this year’s 30 under 30 is well deserved and serves as a testament to his hard work and perseverance,” said Moji Rosson, vice president of sales at Visit Wichita. “When Drew joined our team, his position was completely new to Visit Wichita.  Drew took a fresh market, actively pursued contacts and helped to prove Wichita is a great destination for sporting events.”

Destination International is the largest association resource for official Destination Marketing Organizations, Convention and Visitor’s Bureaus and tourism boards. According to the organization, one of the main priorities for the travel and hospitality industry today is developing our workforce, and specifically our leadership, for the future.

Now in its seventh year, “30 Under 30” is supported by founding program partner SearchWide, and sponsored by IMEX and USAE. The 30 individuals, 30 years of age and under, have been provided the opportunity to engage in professional development and networking opportunities throughout 2017, as well as complimentary registration for Fundamentals in Destination Marketing, the first course of DMAI’s PDM program; and a year-round development focus, including access to an online community. The honorees originate from a variety of DMOs, including Meet Puerto Rico, Destination DC, Travel Oregon, Visit Wichita and Brand USA.

"It was amazing to meet, learn and share experiences with other young professionals in the travel, tourism and hospitality industry and to be a part of Destinations International's 30 Under 30 class,” said Hays. “There were a lot of new ideas brought forth through education sessions that I'm looking forward to implementing within our own organization to help further position Wichita as a fantastic destination to visit."