Governor Kate Brown has appointed two new members to the Oregon Tourism Commission (dba Travel Oregon), Mia Sheppard with Little Creek Outfitters and Greg Willitts with FivePine Lodge. Made up of nine members, the Commission provides expertise and sets policy direction for Travel Oregon staff.
Mia is an accomplished fly-fishing guide, mother and business owner. Mia and her husband Marty own Little Creek Outfitters, a fly-fishing guide service founded in 2003. In 2017, Mia started a new business, Juniper River Adventures, to connect women and youth to the outdoors.
“A dose of the outdoors warms the heart and soul,” said Mia. “I’m honored to be part of the Oregon Tourism Commission and be a voice for outdoor recreation, rural communities and work with Travel Oregon and the Commission to support sustainable tourism that benefits Oregonians and visitors.”
Greg is President and partner at FivePine Lodge and Spa in Sisters. FivePine was a family effort, planned, designed and constructed by Greg and his parents.
Greg has served as a board member and President for the Sisters Area Chamber and an advisor, sponsor and volunteer for some of Central Oregon’s most renowned events: the state’s largest MTB race, Sisters Stampede, the Fresh Hop Festival and host of the Happy Girls Run in FivePine’s backyard, the Deschutes National Forest.
“Every day I appreciate the life I lead and the multiple roles I play in Central Oregon. As a father of three, a husband, son and lodge manager, I strive to promote the beautiful state we live and play in. The passion is natural and instinctual,” said Greg.
“We are pleased to have the extensive experience and knowledge Mia and Greg will bring to the Oregon Tourism Commission. The insight from the outdoor recreation space and the lodging industry are crucial in helping guide Travel Oregon’s efforts. The Governor has appointed and reappointed members who understand the opportunities and impacts the tourism industry brings to Oregon,” said Todd Davidson, CEO of Travel Oregon.
Ryan Snyder, President of Martin Hospitality currently serves as Chair on the Oregon Tourism Commission, with Scott Youngblood, Manager of the Embassy Suites hotel at Washington Square, serving as Vice-Chair. Mia and Greg will begin their term on July 1.
Richard Boyles of Merete Hotel Management has been reappointed to another four-year term which will also begin on July 1. Richard has over 25 years in the hotel and management industry with 17 properties throughout Oregon.
