Join us for Visit Santa Barbara’s Annual General Meeting & Luncheon on Wednesday, May 27 at The Rosewood Miramar Beach as we celebrate the power of tourism and the people who bring it to life. Powered by Tourism: Supporting Our Community highlights the individuals and businesses who strengthen our economy, support our workforce, and enhance quality of life across the Santa Barbara South Coast.
In celebration of National Travel & Tourism Week, this year’s program blends recognition, storytelling, and industry perspective. It reinforces tourism’s role as both an economic engine and a driver of community vitality, benefiting businesses, neighborhoods, and community members across sectors.
The program will feature a panel discussion, Innovators Shaping the Visitor Experience, with local leaders helping define what’s next for our destination.
We will also recognize outstanding individuals and businesses through our Tourism Champions Awards. Before and after the program, enjoy a pop-up farmers market experience featuring local produce, fresh flowers and artisan goods. This Community Connection Showcase highlights the ripple effect of tourism, demonstrating how our visitor economy supports a wide range of local industries, from agriculture to small-batch makers, that enrich our community.
For the event schedule and to purchase tickets, click here.
speakers & Panelists
Kathy Janega-Dykes CEO, Visit Santa Barbara
Kathy Janega-Dykes is the President & CEO of Visit Santa Barbara, where she has led the organization for over two decades. A recognized leader in destination marketing and tourism advocacy, Kathy serves on numerous state and national boards, championing economic vitality and community impact through travel and hospitality.
Kelly Barsky Director of Athletics, University of California Santa Barbara Athletics
Kelly Barsky is Director of Athletics at UC Santa Barbara Athletics, where she leads with a student-centered, community-focused approach and is the first woman to hold the role in department history. Previously, she served as Deputy Athletic Director and Senior Woman Administrator, overseeing internal operations and enhancing the student-athlete experience. A former Division I student-athlete and coach, Barsky has guided the Gauchos to competitive and academic success, including conference championships, national recognition, and record graduation rates. She is active nationally as chair of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Oversight Committee and a former member of the Division I Council.
Charles Hopper President & CEO, Santa Barbara Zoo Charles Hopper is the President & CEO of the Santa Barbara Zoo, a results-driven change agent and visionary leader with a proven record of organizational transformation. His experience combines a deep commitment to conservation with a strong focus on education and community engagement. Previously, Charles served as COO at Birch Aquarium, where he led a significant financial turnaround and advanced a long-term master plan. Earlier, he held leadership roles at the Seattle Aquarium, driving revenue growth and strategic initiatives. Charles also serves on the Board of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums and mentors emerging leaders in the field.
Skyler Gamble Director of Operations, Acme Hospitality
Skyler’s journey in hospitality began washing dishes in a college cafeteria, an entry-level job that sparked a lifelong passion. He advanced through roles with Kimpton Hotel Group, opening properties in Philadelphia and Denver, before finding his home in Santa Barbara. At The Lark, he progressed from Floor Manager to General Manager and later launched Loquita, shaping each restaurant’s story with the same drive that started his career. At Acme Hospitality, Skyler bridges People & Culture and Operations, living the belief that great hospitality is about understanding people, their stories, and their experiences, and creating connections that make every moment memorable.
