Explore Ridgeland Announces Staff Additions and Promotions

Media Contact:
Amelia Dalton, TMP
Director of Marketing & Public Relations
Explore Ridgeland
(o) 601.605.5250
amelia@exploreridgeland.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Explore Ridgeland Announces Staff Addition and Promotions

Ridgeland, Miss. – The Ridgeland Tourism Commission (Explore Ridgeland) is proud to announce the addition of a new team member and several well-earned promotions that reflect the organization's continued growth and commitment to destination marketing excellence.

Thea Stevenson has joined Explore Ridgeland as Creative Director/Graphic Designer. Stevenson brings more than 12 years of experience helping organizations tell their stories through branding, design, digital marketing, social media, events and creative strategy. Most recently, she served as Creative Director at Wealth Hospitality Group, where she spent three years overseeing all marketing initiatives. She looks forward to applying her creative and strategic expertise to promote Ridgeland's unique attractions, support local businesses and inspire more people to discover everything the city has to offer.

Amelia Dalton, TMP has been promoted to Director of Marketing & Public Relations. Dalton joined Explore Ridgeland in November 2022 as Marketing and Design Specialist and has since advanced through roles including Digital Content & PR Manager and Creative Director. Since July 2025, she has led the organization's marketing department, overseeing destination branding, integrated marketing campaigns, public relations, paid media, content strategy, creative direction and agency partnerships. A graduate of Mississippi State University and a Tourism Marketing Professional (TMP), Dalton brings a background in graphic design, storytelling and destination marketing to her work.

Krystal A. Watson has been named Director of Sales, Corporate, Associations, Reunions. A native of Edwards, Mississippi, Watson brings more than a decade of experience in retail management and more than three years as a Sales and Events Manager in the tourism and hospitality industry. She has earned a reputation for building strong client relationships, coordinating successful events and creating personalized experiences that leave lasting impressions, with extensive experience working with corporate groups, business meetings, association events and family reunions.

Crystal Pham has been named Director of Sales, Sports, Events, Tour & Travel. Pham has served Explore Ridgeland since January 2023, holding the positions of Sales and Events Manager and Director of Sales and Events. Over nearly four years with the organization, she has played an integral role in advancing destination sales, cultivating strategic partnerships and overseeing Explore Ridgeland's Event Sponsorship and Bike Share programs. In her new role, Pham will focus on sports tourism, outdoor recreation and motor coach travel while continuing to expand key markets and enhance visitor experiences that strengthen Ridgeland's position as a premier destination.

"We are thrilled to welcome Thea to the Explore Ridgeland family and to celebrate the outstanding achievements of Amelia, Krystal and Crystal," said Kelly Durrett, President and CEO of Explore Ridgeland. "Amelia, Krystal and Crystal have each demonstrated an exceptional commitment to this organization and to the city of Ridgeland, and Thea's impressive background and passion for creative storytelling make her a natural fit for our mission. Together, their talent, passion and dedication position us well to continue elevating Ridgeland as a destination and inspiring visitors to experience everything our city has to offer."

About Explore Ridgeland

Explore Ridgeland, the Ridgeland Tourism Commission, is the official destination marketing organization for the City of Ridgeland, Mississippi. Nestled along the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway, Ridgeland offers a paradise for cyclists and trail enthusiasts, a vibrant bike culture, unique arts experiences at the Craftsmen's Guild of Mississippi Craft Center, delightful culinary options, top-tier shopping, and high-end spas. www.exploreridgeland.com

###

In Ridgeland, Mississippi, small-town southern charm meets big-city luxury and travelers have near-endless possibilities to explore their passions. Just north of the capital and along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway is a paradise for cyclists, with nationally recognized trails and a vibrant biking community. “The Rez” beckons water lovers for boating, fishing and more on its sprawling 33,000 acres. Guests can discover unique art at the Bill Waller Craft Center, indulge in diverse culinary delights and enjoy top-tier shopping or high-end spas.