Explore Evansville’s New CEO: How Tom White Plans to Boost Tourism

Explore Evansville has officially named Tom White as its new President & CEO, effective March 3, 2025. White, a veteran tourism and hospitality executive, steps into the role following the departure of Alexis Berggren, who resigned at the end of 2024 to become the General Manager of the Charlotte Convention Center.

What Is Explore Evansville?

Explore Evansville, formerly known as the Evansville-Vanderburgh County Convention & Visitors Bureau, is the official destination marketing organization for Evansville, Indiana. This nonprofit agency promotes tourism by attracting conventions, meetings, and leisure travelers to the region. It also manages the Evansville Sports Complex, home to Deaconess Sports Park and Goebel Soccer Complex. In 2024 alone, Explore Evansville supported 103 events, generating a $42 million economic impact and drawing over 67,000 attendees to the city.

Read More: Alexis Berggren Steps Down as Explore Evansville President & CEO

White’s Vision for Evansville Tourism

“I am honored and excited to join Explore Evansville and be part of this vibrant community,” said White. “Evansville has incredible potential as a destination, and I look forward to working with our team, local partners, and stakeholders to elevate the city’s tourism industry and create meaningful economic impact.”

White will focus on implementing Evansville’s Tourism Master Plan, enhancing destination marketing strategies, expanding visitor engagement, and fostering collaboration with local and regional partners.

Related: Explore Evansville Honored '24 Champion Economic Impact in Sports

A Proven Leader in the Tourism Industry

Before joining Explore Evansville, White served as Vice President of Convention and Leisure Sales at Visit Mobile, where he played a pivotal role in securing 112,000 booked room nights in 2023—a record-breaking achievement for the Alabama-based destination. His previous leadership roles include:

• Yedla Hotel Management Company: Oversaw marketing efforts for a portfolio of 22 hotels.
• U.S. Space & Rocket Center: Expanded group sales and drove record revenue growth.

White’s expertise spans sales strategy, business development, marketing communications, and client relations. His leadership has consistently delivered significant economic impact for the organizations he has served.

Get our free mobile app