Kristen Paul Earns Industry’s Top Certification; GoRockford Announces Promotions and New Hires

GoRockford is proud to announce that Kristen Paul, Executive Vice President, has earned the Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) designation from Destinations International—the highest individual certification available in the tourism marketing and management industry. 
 

The CDME program is a rigorous educational and professional development program tailored for senior leaders in destination marketing and management. It equips participants to apply strategic leadership, develop forward-thinking initiatives, and enhance organizational productivity. Certification requirements include four core and two elective courses, applied research papers, and a comprehensive three-part exam. Designation holders must also complete continuing education every four years to maintain the credential.
 

“Kristen’s achievement of the CDME designation reflects her deep commitment to professional excellence and her dedication to the Rockford region,” said John Groh, GoRockford President/CEO. “She continues to be an inspiring leader and advocate for our community, and this certification only strengthens her already substantial impact on our destination.”
 

Kristen has served as Executive Vice President of GoRockford since 2023, overseeing the marketing and destination development teams. In this role, she also serves as a strategic advisor to staff and the GoRockford Charitable Foundation board, leads fund development efforts, and acts as a spokesperson for the organization while cultivating community and stakeholder relationships. She directs many of GoRockford’s most visible and celebrated initiatives, including Stroll on State, CRE8IV: transformational ART, and Forest City Beautiful. Kristen also played a key role in GoRockford’s recent rebranding, the launch of a new website, and the production of an updated visitor guide—all designed to more effectively promote the region and enhance the visitor experience.
 

Since joining GoRockford in 2016 as Executive Assistant to the President/CEO, Kristen has steadily advanced through leadership roles. She became Operations Manager of the Destination Development Department in 2018, was promoted to Director in 2020, Vice President of Destination Development in 2022, and to Executive Vice President in 2023. She was named one of the Twenty People You Should Know by the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce in 2024. Kristen holds a bachelor’s degree from Wright State University and spent 10 years in Chicago’s hospitality industry before joining GoRockford.
 

In addition to Kristen’s professional milestone, GoRockford is proud to announce several staffing updates that reflect the organization’s continued investment in team development and regional storytelling:
 

• Chenaire Barmore has been promoted to Communications Manager. Since joining GoRockford in 2022, Chenaire has brought creativity and community insight to the marketing team. Previously serving as Community Engagement Coordinator, he now leads communications efforts, including management of the events calendar, website updates, and initiatives focused on highlighting local businesses and building community partner relationships. Chenaire graduated from Northern Illinois University.
   
• Amanda August has been promoted to Social Media and Communications Specialist, leading efforts to promote the region through strategic digital content. Amanda’s promotion reflects her creativity, strategic thinking, and commitment to growing GoRockford’s online presence. As a key member of the marketing team, she continues to develop engaging content, manage social media campaigns, and collaborate with partners to elevate the Rockford region. Amanda August graduated from North Central College and serves on the Rockford Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors.
   
• Miranda Brook has been hired as Customer Experience Coordinator following a three-month internship with GoRockford during the summer of 2024. In her role, she helps operate and grow the GoRockford Store and serves as the first point of contact for in-person visitors and phone and digital inquiries. As part of the marketing team, Miranda contributes frequently to the GoRockford blog, sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm for the region with visitors. Miranda graduated from Eastern Illinois University.
   
• Leah Ticknor joins GoRockford as Office Manager & Executive Assistant. With a strong background in administrative leadership and support, Leah will play a vital role in supporting organizational staff and board leadership. With work experience including administrative leadership at Bethesda Church, office management at Heyl Royster law firm, and store management and human resources at Target Corporation, Leah will assist in advancing strategic initiatives, including those identified in the Thrive 2035 Master Plan. Leah graduated from Western Illinois University.