GRCVB continues to grow alongside Raleigh and Wake County. In the past few weeks, we have welcomed three new team members to the GRCVB staff. Get to know Emma, Davis and Hannah (pictured from left to right above)!

Emma Bridges joins the Marketing and Communications Department as social media manager...

Tell us about your education and professional background.
I'm a first-generation graduate of North Carolina State University with a bachelor of science in business administration and a concentration in marketing. I worked as a social media editor for N.C. State’s Marketing and Communications department, supporting one of higher education’s top Instagram accounts and editing content created by members of the Student Creator Program.

What do you find most appealing about working in the tourism industry?
I’ve traveled around the world, and every destination has a unique story that unfolds with each step. Raleigh’s story is especially meaningful to me, and having a voice to share what makes this region special is both exciting and rewarding. I also value how tourism supports local businesses and connects people to the pride of the community.

What are you most looking forward to in your new role?
My heart goes out to entrepreneurs, creators and local businesses that make Raleigh and Wake County thrive. Growing up in a family of small business owners, I understand the importance of sharing stories that create impact and supporting the community. As an N.C. native, I am excited to apply my skills as a social media manager and use this role to serve as a tourism advocate, helping others enjoy the same fulfilling experiences.

What are some of your personal favorite places to visit in Raleigh and Wake County?
My favorite local spots include the North Carolina Museum of Art for its exhibitions, the JC Raulston Arboretum at North Carolina State University for its peaceful beauty and local gems like the James B. Hunt Jr. Library. Each showcase Raleigh’s creative community in different ways.

 

Davis Brown joins the Destination Data, Technology and AI (DDTAI) Department as destination data and technology manager...

Tell us about your education and professional background.
I am a recent graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill) with a degree in computer science and worked at the cashier's office before joining GRCVB in early September.

What do you find most appealing about working in the tourism industry?
I really like that, in the tourism industry, we are able to promote small businesses and events in the community and bring more people here to enjoy Raleigh and Wake County.

What are you most looking forward to in your new role?
Working in the DDTAI Department, I look forward to being able to help the GRCVB understand and share the impact for local partners that events are having throughout the county.

What are some of your personal favorite places to visit in Raleigh and Wake County?
One of my favorite places to visit is the Lenovo Center; I have seen great concerts and hockey games there. I also enjoy hiking the many hiking trails in the area, such as the Neuse River Trail.


Hannah Hankins joins the Public Relations and International Tourism Department as public relations and international tourism manager...

Tell us about your education and professional background.
I am a graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill and studied communications and marketing, minoring in entrepreneurship and creative writing while serving as a Parr Ethics scholar and fellow. My experience in public relations and marketing began in high school as PR strategist for a National Geographic-sponsored intersectional climate justice organization.

What do you find most appealing about working in the tourism industry?
My dedication to Marketing and Public Relations began six years ago, when I discovered its ability to platform and elevate the voices of communities I am passionate about. Working in the tourism industry enables me to connect visitors with the aspects of a community I love. I feel there is no better way to learn more about my county than to highlight its multitude of cultural, culinary and creative offerings.

What are you most looking forward to in your new role?
I’m looking forward to furthering my knowledge of public relations in a county I have already grown to love alongside a strong and supportive team. I am also excited to explore the internal workings of the Greater Raleigh hospitality and tourism industry through fostering authentic connections with visitors, residents and journalists alike.

What are some of your personal favorite places to visit in Raleigh and Wake County?
My favorite fair-weather activity in the City of Oaks is strolling through Pullen Park or the JC Raulston Arboretum at North Carolina State University. I also love dim sum at Brewery Bhavana on special occasions, grabbing a matcha at Iris Coffee Lab and visiting the Moon Room photo booth.

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GRCVB is excited about these three passionate individuals joining our team. We look forward to partners meeting and working with them around the county as we continue promoting the destination through our various channels!