Visit Shreveport-Bossier announced three significant accomplishments within the Conventions and Sales Department. David Bradley, Vice President of Business Development, was awarded the prestigious APEX Award for Distinguished Service by Black Meetings & Tourism Magazine, and earned his Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) accreditation. Additionally, Jessica Rodgers, Convention Sales Manager, was elected to the Board of Directors for the Dallas/Ft. Worth chapter of Meeting Professionals International (MPI) as the Director of Membership.

Jessica Rodgers was elected to the Board of Directors for the Meeting Professionals International Dallas/Ft. Worth chapter as Director of Membership, highlighting her expertise and influence in the meetings industry.

 

“We are incredibly proud of Jessica’s appointment,” says Stacy Brown, President of Visit Shreveport-Bossier. “Her exceptional skills have been instrumental in showcasing Shreveport-Bossier as a unique destination for conventions and events.”

 

Celebrating her fifth anniversary with Visit Shreveport-Bossier, Jessica has over 14 years of experience in recruiting major meetings and conventions. She is a Louisiana Tourism Leadership Academy graduate and holds a Bachelor of Arts in mass communications from LSU Shreveport.

 

“Jessica’s appointment as Director of Membership for MPI D/FW reflects her dedication to our hospitality community,” says Stephanie Evans, CMP, President of MPI D/FW Chapter. “Since 2019, she has been a committed member, and we are excited to see her take on this new role. Her passion for the industry will greatly impact our organization and members. Congratulations, Jessica!”

David Bradley, CDME was honored with the APEX Award by Black Meetings & Tourism Magazine on July 27, 2024. This distinction came shortly after Bradley completed the multi-year program to become a Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME), the tourism industry’s highest individual educational achievement.

 

“This certification and award are a true testament to David’s longstanding commitment and leadership within the tourism industry,” said Stacy Brown, President of Visit Shreveport-Bossier. “We could not be prouder to have him on our team at Visit Shreveport-Bossier.”

 

The APEX Award, presented annually at the National Association of Black Hotel Owners, Operators & Developers, recognizes individuals who significantly impact the travel and tourism industry. This is David’s second APEX Award of his career, first won 10 years ago.

 

“It is our pleasure to recognize David for his fine work and long-standing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion,” says Soloman Herbert, Owner of Black Meetings & Tourism Magazine. “He has always supported the multicultural market – the African-American segment in particular. For that reason, Black Meetings & Tourism felt the need to honor him with an APEX Award.”

 

David’s 48-year career in tourism includes key roles in operations, sales, and marketing at major hotels such as Hilton, Sheraton, and Omni. His leadership at Visit Shreveport-Bossier has been pivotal in reaching target markets and generating revenue for the community.

 

These recognitions of David Bradley, CDME and Jessica Rodgers underscore Visit Shreveport-Bossier’s commitment to excellence and leadership in the tourism industry. Their achievements reflect our dedication to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all visitors.