Written by Kim Lawson
OAKHURST – After seven years, Dan Cunning has announced his retirement from the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau (YSVB).
Cunning became the CEO of the YSVB in August, 2008. Prior to making the move to Madera County, Cunning held a like position for the Lake Havasu (Arizona) Convention & Visitors Bureau, representing many varied segments of destination management, areas that included leisure travel, association and group meetings, and sports and event marketing.
In September, 2014, Cunning stepped down from his position of CEO of YSVB. Not ready to retire completely, he became Director of Special Projects. In this position, Cunning worked with Madera County to promote sports tourism and sat on the board of directors with Cal Travel.
“Dan Cunning provided the personal spark which ignited the eternal flame that is the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau as we now know it,” said Ray Krause, YSVB board director and owner of Westbrook Wine Farm. “In the face of opportunity or adversity, Dan always found a way to improve and grow Madera County’s only true marketing agency for the benefit of our visitors, citizens and staff.”
Throughout his career he participated in many national and state tourism organizations, including the Western Association of Visitors Bureaus, Travel Association of America, Association of Film Commissions International, the National Association of Sports Commissions, California Tour & Travel, and California Tourism Association (Cal Travel).
“The past seven years spent with Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau have been some of the best of my career.” Cunning reflected. “I plan to follow YSVB as it moves into the future. Together we accomplished many positives. I have made so many great friends that I don’t plan on walking away from.”
The Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau team say they will miss Dan’s presence but look forward to continuing to build on the great work that he has accomplished.
“We all appreciate the work that Dan has done with the Bureau, and wish him well in his future ventures.” said Board President Michelle Miller.
Though Cunning is retiring from his position with the bureau, he has no intention of sitting idle. He will once again be working on several major entertainment projects, a business he has always loved, alongside his wife Judy.
Dan and Judy live in their mountain dream home in North Fork, where they enjoy the outdoor life, organic gardening, a variety of animals, and all the wonderful recreational opportunities the Sierra Nevada offers.
