Explore Ridgeland Announces Staff Promotions & Achievements

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:
Amelia Dalton
Creative Director
601-934-0230
amelia@exploreridgeland.com

EXPLORE RIDGELAND ANNOUNCES STAFF PROMOTIONS & ACHIEVEMENTS

Ridgeland, Miss. – The Ridgeland Tourism Commission (Explore Ridgeland) is proud to announce the accomplishments of two team members whose dedication and leadership continue to strengthen the mission of the city's destination marketing organization.

Karen Vance has been promoted from Vice President of Finance & Administration to Vice President/Chief Operating Officer(COO). In her new role, Vance will oversee daily operations and provide strategic direction to ensure the continued growth and success of Explore Ridgeland.

Vance recently celebrated her sixth anniversary with Explore Ridgeland. Her promotion recognizes steady leadership, attention to detail, and positive energy that have guided both annual projects and initiatives funded through the American Rescue Plan Act. She has played a critical role in ensuring proper allocation, tracking, and reporting of ARPA funds, leading to compliance with federal, state, and local guidlines while working closely with the president/CEO, staff, and external partners to maximize impact and maintain transparency. In addition to overseeing ARPA initiatives, Vance has consistently managed the organization's core financial and administrative operations, ensuring that Explore Ridgeland runs efficiently day to day.

Amelia Dalton has advanced from Digital Content/PR Manager to Creative Director, where she will lead Explore Ridgeland’s marketing department. Dalton recently earned her Tourism Marketing Professional (TMP) certification from the Southeast Tourism Society Marketing College, a distinction recognizing her expertise and commitment to advancing destination marketing in Mississippi and beyond. In November, Amelia will mark her third anniversary with Explore Ridgeland.

Dalton’s work is driven by travel and storytelling. With a background in destination marketing, gallery management, graphic design, and product development, she has spent the past six years transforming ideas into immersive experiences. Her career began designing home décor for a major wholesaler, a role that brought her designs to world trade centers across the U.S. A semester abroad in Rome ignited her lifelong passion for travel and tourism, which ultimately brought her back to Mississippi to share Ridgeland’s stories with visitors and the community.

For nearly three years, Dalton has championed her community through her work at Explore Ridgeland and as a chamber diplomat. She is proud to call Mississippi home and is passionate about sharing its stories far and wide.

“Karen and Amelia’s dedication, creativity, and leadership are invaluable to our organization,” said Shane Aldridge, President and CEO of the Ridgeland Tourism Commission. “Their accomplishments reflect not only their personal commitment but also the continued momentum and growth of Ridgeland as a leading tourism destination.”

Explore Ridgeland congratulates Karen Vance and Amelia Dalton on these achievements and looks forward to the exciting new chapters they will help shape for the community.

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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. www.exploreridgeland.com