Join us for the 23rd Annual Norfolk State of Tourism Reception, presented by VisitNorfolk and the Norfolk Tourism Foundation! This year, we’re shaking things up. Instead of a traditional keynote, we’re excited to host a moderated panel discussion featuring leaders from Norfolk’s tourism, hospitality and business communities. Our goal is to spark authentic conversation, highlight the incredible creativity and resilience of our industry over the past year, and look ahead to exciting new opportunities on the horizon. This refreshed format aims to be more inclusive and engaging for our entire tourism community.
Mark your calendars for Thursday, September 18 at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott (235 E Main St, Norfolk, VA 23510) as we celebrate a remarkable year in tourism and hospitality. Your support has been instrumental in our industry’s success and community growth. Let’s toast to our collective achievements and the over 12,000 workers who make Norfolk a one-of-a-kind place to work, live, and visit.
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23rd Annual State of Tourism
Date and Time
September 18, 2025
3:30–4:00 PM | Networking & Registration
4:00–5:15 PM | Panel Program (including audience Q&A)
5:15–5:30 PM | Award and Scholarship Presentations
5:30–6:30 PM | Reception & Networking
Location
Norfolk Waterside Marriott
235 E. Main St., Norfolk, VA 23510
SpeakerS
Peter Schmidt is President & CEO of Norfolk Botanical Garden, leading its $50 million Garden of Tomorrow expansion. Formerly a global leader for one of the world’s largest wine makers, he now guides NBG’s rise as an internationally recognized destination. The result: an expansive conservatory housing rare and endangered plants, the introduction of an iconic Chihuly art collection, and educational experiences that inspire the next generation of environmental leaders — strengthening the community, fueling meaningful regional economic growth, and drawing visitors from around the globe to Hampton Roads.
Sean M. Washington serves as Director of Economic Development for the City of Norfolk. He provides leadership, innovative ideas and insight on new and/or emerging industries while managing complex real estate development transactions. Previously, he served as Assistant Director of Economic Development from November of 2020 to August of 2022, and Interim Director until November 2023.
Ron Bailey is a transformational leader with over 25 years of experience as a casino executive, change manager, and culture builder. He currently serves as Vice President & General Manager at Boyd Gaming’s Norfolk Casino Project. Ron has been with Boyd Gaming for more than 13 years, spearheading initiatives that drive innovation and organizational growth.
Erik Neil joined the Chrysler Museum of Art in 2014. As Director, he reaffirms the strong community focus of the institution and revitalized the exhibition program. His commitment to engaging the Museum’s talented staff has resulted in many successful exhibitions.
Mark Perryman serves as President and Chief Executive Officer at the Norfolk Airport. A veteran of the United States Air Force, he has spent nearly 40 years in airport planning and development while also working as an attorney for 31 years. He is the 2024 Tourism Works Award winner.
Award Winner Recipient: Robin Rogers
Robin Rogers joined the Chrysler Museum of Art in 2011 as the Perry Glass Studio Assistant Manager and Technician. He played a pivotal role in shaping the operations and programming at the Studio and became the Manager and Program Director in 2017. Rogers has since been an integral part of the $55 million Campaign for Chrysler effort, which allowed for the expansion of the Perry Glass Studio to triple its original size. Rogers manages a team of twenty-five employees and volunteers and is responsible for developing programming, budget, and strategic planning for an active glass studio.
Rogers is an award-winning artist, specializing in glass sculpting and installation since 1995. His work, which is often created in collaboration with his wife, Julia Rogers, has been exhibited in galleries throughout the country. Before joining the Museum, Rogers owned and operated Missoula School of Hot Glass in Montana. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Columbus College of Art and Design and a Master of Fine Arts from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. He serves on the boards of Teens with a Purpose and the Virginia Glass Guild.
Roger’s passion for introducing audiences and students to the magical properties and endless possibilities of molten glass positively impacts the arts community locally, regionally and nationally.
