For Immediate Release
Press Contact: Noah Howard
Public Relations Manager
pr@tourcayuga.com

AUBURN, NY September 2025 – The Cayuga County Convention and Visitors Bureau (Tour Cayuga) is pleased to announce the appointment of Courtney Kasper as its new Executive Director, effective September 29th.

Kasper brings more than 15 years of leadership experience in tourism, cultural heritage, and community engagement. Most recently serving as Visitor Experience Manager at the New York State Equal Rights Heritage Center, she has overseen daily operations, developed collaborative programming, and managed more than $1 million in funding to support tourism and cultural initiatives. Her work has elevated community events such as the Harriet Tubman Bicentennial and the Brave Brews: Women in Craft Beverage Festival, drawing national recognition and strengthening local economic impact.

Kasper is deeply rooted in Cayuga County, serving on the Cayuga County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Auburn Chamber Orchestra Board of Directors, and chairing the Auburn Downtown BID DEIB Committee. Her career has consistently centered on championing inclusive, purpose-driven tourism that highlights the region’s history, culture, and agritourism.

The selection of Kasper followed a highly competitive national search. The Search Committee received more than 60 applications from qualified candidates across the country and conducted a thorough, four-month review process that included multiple rounds of interviews.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am thrilled to welcome Courtney Kasper as the next Executive Director of Tour Cayuga,” said Erin Katzker, Chair of Tour Cayuga’s Board of Directors and Managing Director of The REV Theater Co. “Courtney brings a deep passion for our region’s rich cultural and agricultural heritage, paired with an exceptional talent for authentic storytelling that powerfully connects with both residents and visitors. We are confident that under her leadership, Tour Cayuga will continue to grow, thrive, and advance its mission, shining a spotlight on everything Cayuga County has to offer.”

“I’m so pleased that Courtney will be leading Tour Cayuga into its next chapter,” said Karen Kühl, outgoing Executive Director of Tour Cayuga. “I know she will carry forward our commitment to making tourism a true driver for this community and add her own vision to take it even further.”

“I am honored and excited to step into the role of executive director at Tour Cayuga. I’m passionate about travel and tourism, and living in an area with such rich history and natural beauty is a point of pride. Joining the tourism office is an incredible opportunity to work alongside a dedicated team and board, and I’m enthusiastic about the organization’s five-year strategic vision. I look forward to continued collaborations with colleagues and strengthening partner relationships to collectively promote Cayuga County,” said Kasper.

Kasper holds a Master of Arts in Journalism from Syracuse University and a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Florida State University. She was honored with the Terri Bridenbecker Young Professional Award in 2023 for her leadership and contributions to Cayuga County.