Explore York Strengthens Team, Expands Industry Connections to Drive Future Tourism Growth

Julie Murphy, Explore York's Web and Social Media Marketing Manager, recently earned two nationally recognized marketing credentials: the Professional Certified Marketer (PCM) designation through the American Marketing Association and the Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP) designation through the Digital Marketing Institute. These certifications, along with the Professional in Destination Management (PDM) credential she earned through Destinations International in 2025, reflect her continued commitment to excellence in destination marketing and digital engagement.

Explore York also announces the promotion of Elizabeth Waite Fisher to Director of Business Resources. Fisher will continue leading the organization's successful tourism grant program while expanding her responsibilities to include oversight of key operational functions that support Explore York's day-to-day operations. Her collaborative leadership, dedication, and commitment to serving York County's tourism community are a valuable resource for local partners.

Last month, Group Sales Manager Nicole Young represented Explore York at the Pennsylvania Bus Association Annual Meeting at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in the Pocono Mountains. During the conference, she met one-on-one with 24 motorcoach operators from Pennsylvania and neighboring states, showcasing York County's attractions, dining, history, and unique group experiences.

Those relationships will become even more valuable when York County hosts the Pennsylvania Bus Association Annual Meeting from June 21–24, 2027. Welcoming the conference to York will give tour operators the opportunity to experience the destination firsthand while showcasing the wide variety of attractions, restaurants, shopping, outdoor recreation, and cultural experiences available to groups visiting York County.

Explore York also continues to expand its reach in the growing sports tourism market. Members of the Sport York team recently participated in a Pennsylvania Sports sales mission to Colorado Springs, Colorado, where they met with leaders from across the sports tourism industry. During a networking breakfast hosted by PA Sports at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum, the team connected with representatives from 14 National Governing Bodies, highlighting York County's exceptional sports facilities, welcoming community, and proven ability to host high-quality amateur sporting events.

The mission strengthened relationships that could bring future USA-sanctioned competitions—and the athletes, families, and spectators who travel with them—to York County.

"Tourism is built on relationships, innovation, and expertise, and the investments we make in our team directly strengthen our ability to market York County to visitors near and far" said Laura Wagner, President of Explore York. "Julie's commitment to professional excellence, Elizabeth's expanded leadership role, and the connections our team is making with tour operators and sports organizations all help position York County for continued growth. Together, these efforts create new opportunities for our tourism partners, support local businesses, and generate lasting economic impact throughout our community."

These accomplishments reflect Explore York's ongoing investment in its people, partnerships, and professional expertise, ensuring York County remains a competitive, welcoming, and compelling destination for leisure travelers, group tours, sporting events, and meetings.