New Executive Director Announced for Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau

LIGONIER, PA (June 21, 2010) – The Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau (LHVB) Board of Directors is pleased to announce the hiring of Mr. Ronald W. Virag as its new executive director.

Mr. Virag comes to the LHVB from AmeriServ Trust and Financial Services Company

(Johnstown, PA) were he served as its President and CEO for fifteen (15) years. In addition to strong financial management skills, he brings to the LHVB a wealth of knowledge in strategic planning, staff development and marketing along with established relationships with government and business leaders throughout the region.

Brad Heiser, Chairman of the LHVB Board of Directors observed that Mr. Virag’s vast experience working with organizations and small businesses gives him the ability to truly understand the day-to-day challenges that face the LHVB and its members in the current economy. “Tourism is the second leading industry in the Commonwealth as well as the region and is a key economic generator for the Laurel Highlands region,” stated Heiser. “Ron possesses a true entrepreneurial spirit - that spirit will contribute not only to the growth of the LHVB but will also be a benefit to it’s over 525 members. That growth will ultimately lead to additional jobs and investment in the Laurel Highlands.”

Mr. Virag, a resident of Ligonier, will begin his new position on July 1. He joins a staff of

12 talented, dedicated individuals that work to promote the many wonderful year-round outdoor activities, museum and cultural attractions, historic sites, family activities and numerous other amenities throughout the Laurel Highlands.

When asked about his new role Mr. Virag said, “I am abundantly aware of the quality of

life and vast array of amenities available to the residents and visitors in the Laurel

Highlands. I look forward to being able to promote this wonderful region on behalf of

the LHVB members.”

Mr. Virag is a graduate of St. Vincent College and the National Graduate Trust School at Northwestern University. He is also the founder and chairman of the Fiduciary Education Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides continuing education for attorneys, accountants and wealth management professionals. Mr. Virag has also volunteered his time in a variety of roles with various non-profit organizations throughout the area.

The Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau, a non-profit corporation (501c6) formed in 1958, is governed by a Board of Directors representative of its membership. The mission of the Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau is to promote tourism, tourism development, and the interests of the travel and hospitality industries in the Laurel Highlands region generally comprising Fayette, Somerset and Westmoreland Counties, thereby contributing to the economic growth and quality of life of the area.

As a destination marketing organization, the Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau, works on behalf of its 525 plus members promoting the wonders and amazing attractions found in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands (Fayette, Somerset and Westmoreland counties) to areas outside its region.

Posted June 22, 2010