Two staff members of the Overland Park Convention and Visitors Bureau (OPCVB) were honored during the 2012 Kansas Tourism Conference for achieving their Kansas Destination Specialist (KDS) certifications. Kelly Peetoom, vice president of sales and Mindy Lallier, senior sales manager, worked towards the certification by engaging in various educational webinars, conferences and trainings.

“Staff development and continuing education is very important to the success of our organization,” said Jerry Cook, president of the OPCVB. Peetoom and Lallier now join the expertise of Cook, Amy Garton, director of interactive solutions, and Brad Plumb, sales manager, who have also obtained their KDS certifications.

The Travel Industry Association of Kansas (TIAK) established the KDS certification program in 2003 so to familiarize and further one’s knowledge of the State of Kansas, tourism marketing and leadership. Since its inception, 33 people from CVBs across the state have been named a KDS designee.

“We are pleased that six TIAK members were honored this year for achieving their KDS certifications,” said Marlee Carpenter, executive director of TIAK. “The hard work and dedication it takes to obtain this designation shows true leadership in our industry.”

The 2012 Kansas Tourism Conference was held October 15-18 in Dodge City, Kansas. The three day conference is the major annual event for travel and tourism promoters in Kansas.  It offers hospitality professionals from all facets of the industry a variety of educational seminars, workshops and networking opportunities.  In addition, a trade show showcases goods and services available to the lodging and tourism industry.

About the Travel Industry Association of Kansas
The Travel Industry Association of Kansas is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion and development of travel and tourism in Kansas.

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