Anna Adkins
2024 Profiles TOURISM & RECREATION
46
“ She has a passion for her community and West Virginia that is inspiring to everyone who knows her .” – Tyson Compton , President
When Anna Adkins first joined the Huntington Convention & Visitors Bureau ( CVB ) as the manager of the visitor ’ s center , she had no idea she had found her dream role . Adkins , who graduated from Marshall University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing and a master ’ s degree in public administration , was searching for a job when she noticed the CVB advertising for a manager position . She was hired and within a year was promoted to sales manager . Eventually , she was named director of sales and marketing , the position she holds today .
“ Anna has been with the CVB for 11 years ,” says Tyson Compton , president of the CVB . “ She started in an entry-level position in our visitor ’ s center and steadily worked her way up to director of sales and marketing . She is an amazing young woman with a passion for her community and West Virginia that is inspiring to everyone who knows her .”
West Virginia Executive | Profiles | 2024
Growing up , Adkins often heard that leaving the Mountain State was the only way to find a decent job . However , she is grateful to be part of the group that decided to stay and make West Virginia better .
“ It ’ s been incredible to see young West Virginians plant roots and invest right here in the Metro Valley ,” Adkins says . “ I want to be part of that . I want to help change the narrative .”
Adkins ’ role at the CVB perfectly encapsulates her goal of leaving a mark on the state . As director of sales and marketing , she helps the CVB find new ways to attract visitors to the area and promote what Huntington has to offer . She mentions impressive sites in the area such as Marshall University , Heritage Farm Museum and Village , Blenko Glass Company and the Kenova Pumpkin House , all within Cabell and Wayne counties , which add to the area ’ s tourism appeal .
Through her work , Adkins has learned the importance of being a team player .
“ In a place like West Virginia , you get much farther working together than in silos ,” she says . “ Our partnerships throughout our service area and the state are invaluable . Not only can you learn from your peers , but you can also bring more business to the area .”
Throughout her career journey , Adkins credits Compton as an incredible mentor who encouraged her to continue her education and supported and valued her ideas . She also notes the support of her family , who helped her find her footing as she graduated college during the late 2000s recession .
“ Career paths are not always neat and tidy ,” Adkins says . “ Flexibility and an open mind can lead you in directions you did not think were possible .” •
Anna Adkins
Company :
Huntington Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
Title :
Director of Sales and Marketing
Contact Information :
( 304 ) 525-7333 anna @ visithuntingtonwv . org
Achievements :
• 2020 Generation Huntington Volunteer of the Year
• 2021 Huntington Regional Chamber Ambassador Appreciation Award
• 2019 Governor ’ s Award for Regional Cooperation
• 2023 Overall Marketing & Advertising Campaign Stars of Almost Heaven Award
Community Service :
• Accelerate Wayne
• Generation West Virginia Board of Directors
• United Way of the River Cities Community Impact Committee