(Washington, DC) – Destination DC (DDC), the official destination marketing organization for Washington, DC, today announced Susan O’Keefe’s appointment as media relations manager, trade. In her role, she supports the convention sales and services department’s Connected messaging through editorial and content channels to reiterate why business meetings and events thrive in Washington, DC. She also promotes Washington, DC to travel trade audiences and supports DDC’s American Experience Foundation.
“Editorial has been key to keeping Washington, DC top of mind for potential travelers throughout the pandemic, and now we’re able to provide dedicated communications support for our industry-related efforts. Emphasizing Washington, DC as a thriving destination for meetings, conventions and events of all sizes, as well as a premier location for group and student travel, will assist our industry’s recovery efforts,” said Robin A. McClain, senior vice president, marketing and communications, DDC.
Susan joins DDC after two decades at National Geographic, where she served in a variety of roles spanning editorial, content and marketing. Most recently, she was senior manager of customer experience at National Geographic Expeditions, the luxury trips and tours business of National Geographic. Her work has been published in National Geographic Traveler, the New York Times and many other prominent outlets.
“DDC benefits from Susan’s illustrious experience as a writer and storyteller. She brings a passion for the city to her work that will highlight DC’s hotels, venues, dining options, arts, culture, and other travel-related businesses throughout trade avenues,” said Danielle Davis, director of communications, DDC.
A resident of Washington, DC and a mom of three native Washingtonians, O’Keefe began her career in the industry as a concierge at the Ritz-Carlton Washington, D.C. hotel in Dupont Circle where she connected guests to local businesses. That role led to a career that combined her passion for travel and journalism. Along with exploring new city attractions, she loves hiking in Rock Creek Park.
“I’m thrilled to join Destination DC in a role that will allow me to use responsible storytelling and compelling content to elevate Washington, DC as a must-visit destination for meetings, events, and group and student travel,” said O’Keefe. “I love sharing my hometown and look forward to our Connected communications strategy to drive more events to the city that directly invest in the local economy.”
About Destination DC:
Destination DC, the official destination marketing organization for the nation’s capital, is a private, non-profit membership organization committed to marketing the area as a premier global convention, tourism and special events destination with a special emphasis on the arts, cultural and historic communities.
November 15, 2021
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