Deborah Ward, executive director of Visit Omaha, will retire on July 31 after more than 18 years dedicated to growing the city’s tourism economy.
Ward became executive director in 2020, steering the organization through the pandemic and laying the groundwork for three straight years of record-breaking tourism numbers. Under her leadership, Omaha’s tourism industry grew into a $2 billion annual economic driver for the city supporting more than 15,000 local jobs.
A former journalist, Ward brought a storyteller’s perspective to destination marketing. She led award-winning advertising campaigns that boosted visitation by 25 percent, helped secure a 10-year funding agreement between the City of Omaha and Douglas County, and led the City of Omaha Hotel Stimulus Program that delivered millions of dollars in relief to Omaha hotels during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ward gave a voice to the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, producing unique videos that gave “Bob” a chance to speak as only a bridge could. She also championed the creation of OMAR the Troll, a statue that sits under Bob. (Because what’s a bridge without its own troll.)
As Ward steps down, Jasmyn Goodwin, Visit Omaha’s vice president of marketing and communications, will serve as interim executive director. Goodwin, who has been with the organization since 2007, is widely respected for her strategic vision and steady leadership.
Ward’s retirement is a moment to recognize not just her contributions but the momentum behind Omaha’s visitor economy. With strong leadership in place and continued investment, Omaha’s tourism industry is well-positioned to keep growing and keep welcoming visitors for many years to come.