Melinda Huntley is executive director of the Ohio Travel Association. Her career has included leadership and communications roles with Cedar Point, destination marketing organizations and The Ohio State University, where she worked with communities and businesses to identify, strengthen and share distinctive visitor experiences rooted in local character. Known for her practical, solutions-focused leadership style, Melinda brings people together to elevate important places including historic sites, cultural destinations, trails and outdoor recreation sites, and downtowns. She has developed and led programs focused on leadership, visitor experiences, place-based storytelling, group travel readiness, guest satisfaction, board governance, and others. Melinda serves as a Commissioner for America 250-Ohio and has contributed to numerous statewide and national boards, committees and task forces involving tourism, workforce development, education, heritage and trail development. Throughout her career, she has been committed to helping communities recognize the value of their important places and build stronger connections to reach shared goals.