Purpose
Visit Lafayette-West Lafayette is a vital driver of the visitor economy. Providing support and promotion of the tourism sector in our destination creates a ripple effect that makes our community more vibrant, dynamic, diverse, and a great place to visit, live, work or play.
Our Social Inclusion Statement
Visit Lafayette-West Lafayette is committed to creating a secure and welcoming destination where every individual is appreciated. We celebrate our diverse community and embrace our common bonds, inviting everyone to discover Lafayette-West Lafayette—a place where everyone is welcome to visit, work, play and belong.
Board of Directors
Visit Lafayette – West Lafayette (VLWL) is governed by the Tippecanoe County Convention and
Visitors Commission and the VLWL Board of Directors.
Members of the Commission and Board are made up as follows:
Tippecanoe County Convention & Visitors Commission (Commission) Council appoints 3 members for a two-year term:
• One must be engaged in the hotel or motel business.
Richard Ghiselli, Purdue University School of Hospitality & Tourism Management
• One must be a representative of the travel or visitors industry in the county.
Rachel Johnson, Journey's by Rachel
• One must be a member of the County Council.
Kathy Vernon
Tippecanoe County Commissioners (Commissioners) appoint 3 members for a one year term:
• One must be engaged in the hotel or motel business in the County.
Teresa Witkoske, Black Blanket Farms Bed & Breakfast
• One must be a representative of the County's business community.
Becky Barnes, Retired Caterpillar, Inc.
• One must be a Commissioner.
David Byers
City of Lafayette, the Mayor (LAF) appoints 2 members for a one year term:
• One must be a representative from economic development.
Nolan Willhite, Flora Candle Company
• One must be a representative of the travel and visitors industry.
Karen Cooper, Outpost Catering and Old Buffalo's Outpost Bar & Grill
City of West Lafayette, the Mayor (WL) appoints 1 member for a one year term:
• Must be a representative of the travel and visitors industry.
Kevin Noe, West Lafayette Parks
The Commission and Council appointees must appoint a representative from Purdue University's Conference Division.
Nick Bonora
The above 10 members then appoint 3 Members at Large members:
Liz DeVault, Arni's
David Bathe, Chancellor of Ivy Tech Community College
Dave Sattler, Cartoonist
