Dutchess Tourism, Inc. (DTI), the official destination marketing organization for Dutchess County, announces the promotion of three staff members within the organization. Colleen Dorney has been promoted to senior director of outreach and operations, Rich Gregory to communications and tourism relationships manager, and Jessica Sarrantonio to tourism operations manager. All are Certified Tourism Ambassadors ™ (CTAs) and have completed the Guest Service Gold® Tourism — workforce training programs aimed at creating exceptional tourist interactions.

In her role as senior director of outreach and operations, Dorney will spearhead the strategic direction and execution of DTI's outreach efforts, fostering partnerships to enhance the county's tourism initiatives. Dorney will continue to drive the organization’s mission forward through community relations efforts and DTI’s signature events including the Awards of Distinction breakfast, annual brochure exchange and networking event and biannual Lunch & Learn series. 

Gregory's promotion to communications and tourism relationships manager signifies his exceptional contributions in cultivating communications with local tourism partners to promote their tourism offerings through website and business listings and showcasing the county's unique attractions through articles on DTI’s website (www.dutchesstourism.com). He also represents DTI at Travel & Adventure Shows in Chicago, IL, Denver, CO, New York, N.Y., and Washington D.C., connecting one on one provide travel inspiration to thousands of potential visitors to our area.

As tourism operations manager, Jessica Sarrantonio will play a pivotal role in enhancing visitor experiences throughout Dutchess County. She is often the first person a potential visitor will interact with when they call the DTI’s office for travel advice. Additionally, she will work to expand tourism information offerings throughout the county. 

President and CEO Melaine Rottkamp stated, “We are thrilled to announce the well-deserved promotions of Colleen, Rich, and Jessica. Their dedication, innovative thinking, and commitment to excellence have been instrumental in promoting Dutchess County as a premier destination."

DTI is dedicated to promoting the diverse attractions, events, and experiences in Dutchess County aimed at audiences around the globe. As a testament to their success, the county saw a nearly 12% increase in visitor spending year-over-year, resulting in $706 million generated from tourism in 2022.