Travel Marquette’s Estler named to Top 25 list

What’s happening: Susan Estler has been recognized by the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International as one of its “Top 25 Extraordinary Minds” for 2024. This annual award honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional creativity, innovation, and leadership in the hospitality industry. A panel of senior industry executives selected the 2024 honorees based on their recent achievements in creating engaging sales or marketing campaigns, overcoming challenging situations and driving significant results, all of which Estler completed as CEO of Travel Marquette, one of Michigan’s most recognizable tourism brands. 

About Estler: Estler has worked in tourism marketing and public relations around the United States since 2001. Her roles include director of marketing for the Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau; vice president of marketing for Panama City Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau; executive director for the Lackawanna County Visitors Bureau; and CEO of Travel Marquette since 2018. She is also president of the Michigan Association of Convention & Visitor Bureaus and serves on the Michigan Travel Commission. Her initiatives include Panama City Beach’s “Real.Fun.Beach” rebrand, Travel Marquette’s accessibility campaign, and founding the Respect Marquette County Coalition.

What they’re saying: “I am truly honored to receive this recognition from HSMAI,” Estler said. “Tourism marketing has been my passion throughout my career, and I’m grateful to join such a distinguished group of individuals. I look forward to continuing to serve Marquette County and to seeing our destination receive well-deserved national recognition.”

What’s next: Estler will receive the award at a special reception in New York City on February 18, joining the other winners from around the country.