After a short trial run, the interim executive director of eXplore Lawrence has been selected to take the position permanently.
Kim Anspach, who has worked with the local travel and tourism bureau since 2014, took over the interim role last month upon the retirement of Michael Davidson, according to a Monday news release from eXplore Lawrence. She was selected after a nationwide search, the release says.
In her time with the organization, she has coordinated the launch of the “Unmistakably Lawrence” brand, created and implemented the Lawrence Tourism Ambassador Program, designed and relocated the Lawrence Visitors Center to downtown, and served as chair of Lawrence Arts Roundtable, the release says.
She is taking the helm at a time when the organization is looking to counter the COVID-19 pandemic’s effects on the local tourism and hospitality industry.
“My tenure at eXplore Lawrence has been focused on building collaborations to support our tourism industry and help our partners thrive,” Anspach sad in the release. “I am excited and honored to lead eXplore Lawrence as our industry recovers from the pandemic and continues to help drive the economic recovery.”
Anspach is an 18-year resident of Lawrence and a Leadership Lawrence class of 2019 graduate, according to the release. She also serves on the Downtown Lawrence Inc. board.
