Karen Niverson speaks at a Columbus Area Visitors Center annual meeting.
The Republic file photo
The Columbus Area Visitors Center announced Thursday that Karen Niverson will step down from her role with the organization effective May 13 after seven years as its executive director.
Niverson, an Indiana tourism industry veteran, joined the Visitors Center after more than 10 years as the executive director of the Grant County Convention and Visitors Bureau. She also served as president of the Indiana Tourism Association, the industry’s trade group.
“Bartholomew County is fortunate to have such a great team promoting this area as a destination,” Niverson said, calling her work here an honor. “I am confident the Visitors Center will continue to lead the state in destination marketing innovation.
“I am grateful for the support and friendship of so many great leaders here in Columbus. The spirit of collaboration is a hallmark of this community, and I have thoroughly enjoyed serving alongside so many dedicated community champions. I am making this move to have more family time. I plan to stay in Columbus and find new ways to serve the community.”
During Niverson’s tenure, she provided leadership to a variety of community boards and committees, including the Columbus Area Economic Growth Council, Landmark Columbus Foundation and the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce.
Cindy Frey, president of the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce, was on the search committee that brought Niverson to town. Frey said Niverson’s impact will be felt in Bartholomew County for years to come.
“Not only did she utilize her expertise in destination development and marketing to grow tourism in the county, but she also helped to lead key economic development projects like Nexus Park, the talent attraction toolkit, and the downtown hotel conference center,” Frey said. “I will miss the opportunity to collaborate with Karen on projects that help us to achieve our vision for a more vibrant community.”
Niverson spearheaded several impactful community projects including the development of the Columbus Area Community Calendar, the Columbus IN Tours app, and the Destination Neighborhoods branding initiative.
Jenny Kim, President of the Visitors Center’s board of directors, said Niverson will be missed.
“Karen has built strong ties with community partners, and we appreciate her leadership. She is leaving the organization in a solid position with a talented team of professionals to carry on the work.”
Kim added that a search for a new leader will begin soon.
