Presidential Speaker Series: Secretary of Tourism Chelsea Ruby

Name: Presidential Speaker Series: Secretary of Tourism Chelsea Ruby
Start: 2026-04-28T18:00:00-04:00
Location: 1201 Locust Ave, Fairmont, WV, United States, West Virginia 26554

Schedule

Tue, 28 Apr, 2026 at 06:00 pm

UTC-04:00

Location

1201 Locust Ave, Fairmont, WV, United States, West Virginia 26554 | Fairmont, WV

THIS EVENT IS FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Guest Lecture Details:
📍 Falcon Center - 3rd Floor Conference Rooms
⏰ 6:00 p.m.
Join us for Secretary Ruby's lecture on "Tourism: An Economic Engine for West Virginia."
A reception with food, drink, and great conversation will follow the lecture!
Chelsea Ruby has led West Virginia’s tourism efforts to historic success, elevating the state’s Almost Heaven brand and driving record growth in traveler spending. Under her leadership, the Department of Tourism has earned national recognition for marketing excellence. She is a passionate advocate for showcasing West Virginia as a year-round destination.

Recently, Ruby approached Fairmont State to address workforce needs in the state’s outdoor tourism industry. In response, Fairmont State launched a B.A. in Outdoor Leadership, reinforcing its mission as an economic driver and workforce development leader. As one of West Virginia’s largest industries, outdoor tourism demands skilled professionals—a need both Ruby and Fairmont State are committed to meeting.

Ruby’s presentation, “Tourism: An Economic Engine for West Virginia,” will highlight the industry’s impact, the opportunities it creates, and how regional institutions like Fairmont State are helping build the next generation of tourism professionals.