Meet the Hosts
The Team at Finger Lakes Visitors Connection Welcomes You to Canandaigua!
The Finger Lakes Visitors Connection team is thrilled to welcome you to the 2025 New York State Tourism Conference! We are honored to host so many colleagues and friends in our beautiful region.
If you haven’t registered yet for the conference, we encourage you to secure your spot here. We would love for you to join us April 23-25 in Canandaigua. This conference is a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and gain insights from tourism industry leaders from across New York State and around the world—all set against the stunning backdrop of the Finger Lakes.
Before the conference officially begins, we invite you to a special retirement celebration on Tuesday, April 22, at the Canandaigua Country Club. Join us as we bid a heartfelt farewell to our President and CEO, Valerie Knoblauch, honoring her remarkable 41 years of service to Ontario County. This evening will be a time to reflect on her incredible contributions and the community’s support that has shaped our journey. In her honor, contributions made during this event will support a scholarship fund designed to help business and emerging leaders grow their expertise in tourism. Learn more and register here.
Beyond the conference sessions, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in everything the Ontario County has to offer. From renowned restaurants and award-winning wineries to exceptional breweries and scenic outdoor adventures, there’s so much to experience. Though our formal program concludes on Friday, we encourage you to extend your stay and explore the breathtaking lakes, hiking and biking trails, and our welcoming community.
We can’t wait to share this incredible experience with you and create unforgettable memories together!
See you in April!
The Finger Lakes Visitors Connection Team
Meet the Team:
Valerie Knoblauch
President & CEO
Valerie has been a leader in Ontario County’s tourism industry since 1984, combining her passion for travel, wine, and marketing. With an MBA from RIT and a background in English education, she has held key state and national roles, including on New York’s Governor’s Tourism Advisory Council and U.S. Travel’s board. A published author and sought-after speaker, she is an expert in strategic planning and destination management.
Quote: Tourism is about experiences, and we’re excited to share the joy of the Finger Lakes experience with the world!
Tracey Burkey, CDME
Vice President of Destination Development
With a lifelong connection to the Finger Lakes, Tracey has brought extensive experience in meetings and group sales to Ontario County since 2019. Her ability to connect the community with the industry has enhanced visitor experiences. Previously, she held leadership roles at Visit Syracuse and HelmsBriscoe and is a Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME). Passionate about growth, Tracey actively contributes to industry organizations to maintain the Finger Lakes as a premier destination for meetings and events.
Quote: Here in the Finger Lakes, every moment creates lasting connections and unforgettable memories—we're excited to invite you to experience them with us.
Jessica VanDeMar
Marketing Director
Selected as one of Destination International’s 30 Under 30 Champions in 2024, Jessica is passionate about making a lasting impact in the tourism industry of the Finger Lakes. She holds a degree in Tourism and Recreation Management from Niagara University and an associate degree in Tourism Studies from Finger Lakes Community College. Since joining Finger Lakes Visitors Connection in 2022, Jessica has focused on innovative marketing strategies to promote the Finger Lakes region, inspire visitors to create unforgettable experiences, and contribute to the community in Ontario County.
Quote: From scenic strolls by the lakes to hidden local gems, we can’t wait to uncover the magic of the Finger Lakes with you all.
Carolina Taylor
PR & Communications Manager
From Medellín, Colombia, Carolina is the PR & Communications Manager for Finger Lakes Visitors Connection. Her travels with cultural performance groups fueled her passion for exploring new places and cultures. Now living in upstate New York after moving from New York City, she enjoys the region’s landscapes and culinary delights. With a BA in Social Communication and Journalism Carolina brings valuable expertise from her roles in communications and tourism public relations.
Quote: Collaborating with others to create a positive impact and connect people is the best part of tourism. We can't wait to share the beauty of our piece of the world with you!
Chloe Davis
Partner Engagement Coordinator
A recent graduate of Niagara University with a BS in Hospitality Management and a minor in Tourism Management, Chloe moved to Naples in 2015 and fully embraced the beauty of the Finger Lakes. As a passionate travel enthusiast, she loves engaging in creative activities, exploring new places throughout the Finger Lakes towns, and connecting with the community to enhance tourism experiences.