Cathleen Domanico Appointed as Leader for Cruise the Great Lakes

The Conference of Great Lakes St. Lawrence Governors & Premiers (GSGP) has appointed Cathleen Domanico as its new tourism director. She officially started her role on November 1 and will oversee two key regional tourism marketing initiatives: Cruise the Great Lakes and Great Lakes USA.

With over 30 years of experience in sales and marketing across various sectors, Domanico has held senior leadership positions in regional, national, and global organizations. Her extensive background includes client management in marketing agencies, adjunct teaching, and numerous board roles related to travel and tourism.

Most recently, Domanico was the CEO of the La Grange Business Association in Illinois. Before that, she served as the Vice President of Global Trade Development at Brand USA, where she managed 22 international offices and developed strategies to attract leisure travelers to the U.S. Her previous experience also includes a significant tenure as the Vice President of Tourism and Leisure Sales for Choose Chicago, the city’s official tourism agency.

Domanico holds a Bachelor of Arts from Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame, Indiana, and a Master of Arts from Northern Illinois University.

Her appointment has garnered positive reactions from industry leaders. David Naftzger, Executive Director of the GSGP, expressed confidence that her expertise in international marketing and tourism program management will enhance the region’s appeal as a travel destination. Daniel Thomas, Director of Illinois’ Office of Tourism, emphasized the importance of collaboration with Domanico to develop strategic marketing partnerships, particularly in markets such as the U.K., Ireland, and German-speaking countries. Anne Sayers, Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Tourism, noted the Great Lakes’ rising popularity as a cruise destination, expressing enthusiasm for building on recent successes with Domanico’s leadership.


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