Springfield to Host 2014 OTA Conference on Tourism

SPRINGFIELD -- The Ohio Travel Association has announced that Springfield will host the organization’s 2014 Conference on Tourism.

The Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau – in partnership with the Springfield Courtyard Marriott and Clark State’s Hollenbeck-Bayley Creative Arts & Conference Center – presented its bid for the 2014 conference at OTA’s 2012 event held in Dublin.

CVB Director Chris Schutte led the bid process which resulted in the statewide conference choosing Springfield over such competitors as Cincinnati.

“The OTA Board was very impressed with our facilities and our willingness to go over and above in our role as event host,” said Schutte. “The host CVB is always very instrumental in the planning and execution of the conference and we couldn’t be more pleased that OTA has chosen Springfield for its signature event.”

Schutte, who also serves on the OTA Board of Directors, estimates that the 2014 Conference on Tourism will bring more than 300 attendees to Springfield over multiple days.  The economic impact for the event is estimated at nearly $200,000.

“This is a significant event for Springfield not only in terms of its economic impact but also in terms of showcasing our destination to a select group of tourism professionals,” said Schutte. “I’m confident that they will enjoy their time in Springfield and will help us spread the message of what we have to offer.”