Darlene Starks, Louisville Tourism

I began my career in hospitality at the Hyatt Regency Louisville in 1997 and transitioned to Louisville Tourism as a sales assistant in 2000. I’ve moved up the ladder to Senior Sales Assistant, Sales Coordinator and Marketing Communication Coordinator.

It’s an amazing industry to work in, as well as the amazing people you get to work with. You meet and greet visitors from all over. You work and have the opportunity to attend events in your community and other cities that you never would have had in other industries.

I’ve had many “aha” moments. From attending Oaks Day for the first time to helping plan and execute a number of Louisville events in other cities. I wish that I had started in the hospitality industry earlier in my life. There are so many more opportunities that I could have taken advantage of, but I don’t regret the time that I have spent in the industry.

I am truly grateful for all the wonderful co-workers and people that I have had the pleasure to work with and get to know!