The Santa Maria Valley Chamber has appointed Jennifer Harrison as vice president of Marketing & Communications.

An advocate for the region’s economic growth, tourism, and community engagement, Harrison has played a key role in shaping the chamber’s tourism marketing and communications strategies for nearly two decades.

In leading Santa Maria Valley’s tourism initiatives, she was a driving force behind the formation of the Tourism Marketing District and its renewal in 2020, ensuring long-term investment in promoting the area as a prime travel destination, the chamber said.

Harrison also spearheaded such projects as the nationally and internationally recognized Stimulus Promotion, which generated widespread attention including CNN and NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt; and the development of the Santa Maria Valley Wine Trolley, enhancing visitor engagement with the region’s acclaimed wineries.

In her current role, Harrison oversees the chamber’s strategic marketing and communications efforts spanning all programs; and she manages branding, public relations, digital outreach, and tourism initiatives.

“The Santa Maria Valley is a truly special place, and I feel incredibly fortunate to contribute to its economic vitality,” Harrison said. “Our region is rich in history, culture, and opportunity, and I take great pride in leading initiatives that promote and support our local businesses, tourism, and community development.

“It’s an honor to be part of the backbone that drives our region forward.”

Beyond her work with the chamber, Harrison serves on the boards of the Guadalupe Dunes Center and the Central Coast Tourism Council, and is a member of CalTravel Association, Visit California, and the California Society of Association Executives.

For more about the Santa Maria Valley Chamber, visit www.santamaria.com.