Tennessee River Valley Stewardship Council Strengthens Leadership for Sustainable Progress

Strengthening Community Engagement in the Tennessee River Valley

The Tennessee River Valley Stewardship Council (TRVSC) is excited to announce the addition of three new directors to its board: Amy Anderson, Lauren Hurdle, and Marty Mabry. Their expertise and passion are set to enhance the Council's mission in promoting sustainable tourism, heritage preservation, and community-driven development for the Tennessee River Valley, which spans seven states.

New Directors’ Backgrounds

Amy Anderson brings her extensive experience in tourism from her role as the Tourism Director for the Southeast Tennessee Development District. Having dedicated the last four years to tourism initiatives in the greater Chattanooga area, Anderson is well-equipped to foster connections between visitors and the unique local offerings of Southeast Tennessee. Her love for outdoor activities, such as canoeing and camping, drives her commitment to ensuring that the natural beauty of the region is preserved for future generations.

Lauren Hurdle, the Tourism Director for Jefferson County, Tennessee, also assumes prominent roles within the tourism community as the President of the Middle East Tennessee Tourism Council and as a member of the Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association's advisory council. Her experience stems from her North Carolina roots, where she cultivated a deep passion for community development and tourism, which she has adeptly transitioned to her current role in East Tennessee. Hurdle focuses on enhancing the local tourism landscape, ensuring it reflects the rich culture and natural wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Marty Mabry, who joins the board as the Executive Director of the Southwest Tennessee Tourism Association, comes with over 30 years of experience in the tourism sector. Having recently retired as the West Tennessee Division Manager for the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Mabry has excelled in driving tourism strategies across multiple counties. Her numerous industry accolades underline her excellence in facilitating tourism and community development, making her a valuable asset to the Council.

The Council’s Mission and Impact

The Tennessee River Valley Stewardship Council operates as a multi-state nonprofit organization uniting communities, tourism stakeholders, businesses, and conservation advocates to foster responsible tourism and sustainable economic growth. Serving 121 counties across Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, and Virginia, the Council takes a regional approach to address challenges and opportunities that transcend geographic boundaries.

The Council's work revolves around preserving natural resources and cultural heritage while promoting economic growth through tourism. Their commitment to sustainable practices reflects their understanding that the Tennessee River Valley is a unified landscape rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.

One of the Council’s notable initiatives is the Tennessee River Valley MapGuide at ExploreTRV.com, which serves as a valuable resource for both locals and visitors. This platform connects people to the region’s diverse attractions, including local businesses, outdoor activities, and cultural sites, fostering community engagement and economic sustainability.

Future Plans and Vision

The expertise of the new directors is bound to inspire innovative programs that emphasize conservation, community engagement, and tourism development. Under the banner of sustainable tourism, the Council aims to bridge rural and metropolitan experiences, allowing communities to share their unique stories and cultural narratives.

Julie Graham, the volunteer Executive Director of the Council, emphasizes the significance of collaboration, stating, “Sustainable tourism is at the heart of our work. By connecting rural and metro communities, we can collectively enhance our shared history, culture, and the very essence of the Tennessee River Valley.”

With a multi-faceted approach that prioritizes ecological stewardship and cultural preservation, the TRVSC is poised to drive meaningful change throughout the Tennessee River Valley, ensuring its natural and historical legacy is protected for generations to come.