City of Thomasville’s Managing Director of Marketing & Communications, April Norton, announced today that Mary Patchunka-Smith has been named the City’s new Tourism Manager. This addition to the team became effective on January 29.
Mary Patchunka-Smith describes herself as a skilled connector who enjoys bringing people and projects together. Having spent more than 17 years in the hospitality and tourism industry, she’s become a subject matter expert on how to align resources to make memorable experiences for all involved. Mary’s collaborative spirit enables her to bring visitors, hotel properties, and attractions together to craft memorable experiences.
“We are very pleased that Mary has accepted the position with the City of Thomasville,” said Norton. “She is a gifted communicator whose work with major sports tourism conferences and trade shows (USA Softball, NJCAA, ABCA), liaison to the State Film Department, liaison to the Muscogee Creek Nation, and more, will be invaluable in her role with the City. Mary is equipped with a proven aptitude for creating partnerships, developing experiences, and team leadership.”
Mary has had the privilege to be a part of this forever-evolving industry and continues to find herself constantly evolving with it. Her mission is to connect tourism with the community through signature programs and to share goals and values with citizens, visitors, media, and industry partners. Most of all, she enjoys sharing “Southern Hospitality” with visitors to always make them feel welcome.
“We are excited to welcome the wealth of knowledge and experience Mary brings to the Tourism industry in Thomasville,” said Norton. “We are confident with her experience, forward-thinking, and willingness to serve, tourism in Thomasville will see even greater heights.”
For more information, contact the Thomasville Visitors Center at 229-228-7977.