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Ole Miss Alum to Lead Visit Mississippi as State Tourism Director
University of Mississippi alum Craig Ray is returning to Visit Mississippi as director of Mississippi Development Authority (MDA).
MDA Executive Director Glenn McCullough Jr. appointed Ray to this position – a position that Ray had previously served in from 2004 to 2009.
McCullough said on Visit Mississippi’s website: “Craig has a proven history with both tourism and MDA. His results-driven performance record will enhance Mississippi as a destination location with a uniquely rich cultural heritage around the globe.”
On July 18, he will take the position after Malcolm White stepped down in November. White has since then returned to Mississippi Arts Commission.
Ray brings an impressive resume upon his return. He is a former partner of The Talon Group, LLC, a government relations advocacy firm; co-executive producer of the Mississippi GRAMMY Celebration; executive producer of Mississippi Night at GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles; producer of the Southeastern United States Canada Conference; director of the Division of Tourism Development at the Mississippi Development Authority; and special assistant to the president and deputy director of Advance for Event Coordination for the White Shouse.
Ray said on Visit Mississippi’s website: “I have had the privilege of promoting Mississippi’s rich tourism assets for many years. It is an honor to help lead a team dedicated to showing the world what the state has to offer. I appreciate Glenn McCullough for this opportunity and look forward to working with both MDA and our tourism partners.”
Callie Daniels Bryant is the senior managing editor at HottyToddy.com. She can be reached at callie.daniels@hottytoddy.com.
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