Rupert elected president of tourism association

Sherry Rupert, director of the Nevada Indian Commission, was elected to serve as the president of the board of directors for the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association.

Rupert, who has been the vice president of the board, is also one of six members of the U.S. Department of Commerce Travel and Tourism Advisory Board. She replaces past president Mary Jane Ferguson, who served as board president for the past two years.

“One of the exciting projects for 2014 is the development of a destination website,” Rupert said. “The website will market tribal destinations and help our tribal members reach a worldwide audience. As president, I will push forward to ensure that AIANTA remains active in its work on the highest policy levels, partnerships, and recruitment and retention of its members.”

In a news release from the association, spokeswoman Angelie Gamboa said, “Ms. Rupert is a prominent member of the American Indian travel and tourism industry. Her leadership will be invaluable in supporting the board’s efforts in raising awareness for AIANTA’S programs, events and fundraising efforts.”

Rupert, with Gov. Brian Sandoval’s support, was instrumental in developing and installing the first American Indian cultural exhibit at Reno-Tahoe International Airport, the news release states. She also assisted the Nevada Commission on Tourism in identifying and including American Indian dancers into their ad campaigns to market the state.

She is Paiute and Washoe heritage, born in Carson City and raised on the Washoe Reservation in Gardnerville. She is a wife and mother of two.