The Salt Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau recently announced that Laura Barnes is taking on the role of Tourism Communications Manager, sharing the message of Salt Lake's incredible year-round tourism product with local, national and international media. Laura will also focus on the Bureau's social media content and be involved in keeping its "My Salt Lake" section of blogs and visitor-generated feedback current and up to date. With Salt Lake's endless outdoor recreation, from its four world-class resorts to its endless hiking and biking trails, and its cultural arts, dining and nightlife scene, Barnes will be extremely busy in her new role. 

Fortunately, Barnes brings enthusiasm and an in-depth knowledge of both PR and Salt Lake to the job. Most recently with Salt Lake's Love Communications as an Account Coordinator, Barnes worked in public relations and strategic communications representing a variety of clients. Prior to that, Barnes worked in the marketing department of Winder Farms, serving as Marketing Coordinator. Barnes received a bachelor of arts degree in Mass Communication with an emphasis in Public Relations from the University of Utah in 2006. A Utah native, Barnes is an outdoor enthusiast and very familiar with the magnitude of cultural and recreational opportunities throughout the state, particularly Salt Lake. 

The Salt Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau is a private, non-profit corporation responsible for the promotion of Salt Lake as a convention and travel destination. Over its 25 years, the SLCVB has increased convention revenue from $11 million to $326 million, fulfilling its mission of improving the area economy by attracting and providing support to conventions, leisure travelers and visitors. Salt Lake is a unique fusion of metropolitan city and quaint mountain town; the towering Wasatch Mountains that embrace Salt Lake offer a dramatic backdrop to the vibrancy and activities of downtown. Having completed a $58 million expansion in 2006, the Salt Palace Convention Center now boasts 675,000 square feet of exhibit and meeting space, ideal for groups of all sizes and needs. For more information on all that Salt Lake has to offer, visit www.visitsaltlake.com.