Travel Association promotes out-of-state ads

LINCOLN – A Nebraska Travel Association press release highlights the importance of tourism advertising to support rural Nebraska’s second leading economic driver behind agriculture.

Association president Kerri Rempp said success stories shared at the 2026 state tourism conference in Lincoln included the Nebraska Passport Program boost for rural retailers and the importance of a tourism culture ready to collect out-of-state tourism dollars.

A press release says Jeanna Stavas of Whispering Pines Bed and Breakfast in Nebraska City advises statewide promotions to drive out-of-state visits.

Nebraska Tourism Commission’s new marketing campaign, “Nebraska, All Heart,” was launched at the conference.

Jenn Gjerde was also introduced as the new executive director of Nebraska tourism.

She was appointed following a 9-0 vote by the tourism commission on Thursday. Former director John Ricks resigned last September.

The Nebraska Travel Association credits the tourism commission’s focus on out-of-state marketing for recent growth in rural tourism.

Gjerde’s appointment comes as state leaders discuss a possible merger of the Tourism Commission and the Economic Development Department.