Jon Hunsberger is the new executive director of the Elkhart County Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Hunsberger, who has served as the organization’s director of destination and development since 2018, was promoted to the role and will replace Diana Lawson, who is retiring as CEO of the organization on Dec. 31. She will work with Hunsberger as he transitions into what will become the organization’s new top leadership post.
Hunsberger says he is ready for his new role to begin.
“This is an exciting time for Elkhart County businesses and I’m eager to move the ECCVB forward in working with local businesses to advance our collective goals,” he said.
Hunsberger has led the organization’s efforts of advancing placemaking as an economic development and talent attraction and retention strategy for the Vibrant Communities movement, co-funded by the Elkhart County visitors’ bureau and the Community Foundation of Elkhart County.
“Diana Lawson’s leadership in Elkhart County’s business community has been instrumental in Elkhart County becoming a more vibrant community and a place where residents want to live and businesses want to invest,” said Levi King, president and of the ECCVB’s board of directors. “While she will be missed, Diana has done an excellent job of developing community leaders within the ECCVB staff.”
King said the board has planned for a leadership transition the past two years.
“We are certain Jon Hunsberger is the ideal person to lead the ECCVB forward as it works with all Elkhart County communities on collaborative efforts to spark inspiration, innovation and collaboration.”
The ECCVB estimates the tourism and hospitality industry in the South Bend-Elkhart area has an annual economic impact of $550 million, which is more than double the amount of that sector in 2003. During Lawson’s tenure, the organization has been involved with or helped launch several initiatives including the Northern Indiana Tourism and Development Commission and the South Bend Elkhart Regional Partnership.
Lawson said she will continue supporting and contributing to efforts to help Elkhart County prosper.
“I intend to continue loving where I live and enjoying the opportunity to contribute to our community in as many ways possible,” she said. “Elkhart County is home to me (and) I’ve always been passionate about Elkhart County, what it has to offer the world, and the amazing people who make things happen here.”
