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Meet the Team

Michelle Owens
Executive Director
[email protected]

Michelle Owens first came to know and love Henderson County as a camper and then camp counselor in the 1990’s, and, since 2021, this native western North Carolinian has led the HCTDA as its executive director. Whether at a news station, public relations firm or in the tourism industry, Michelle has indulged her love of storytelling for more than 25 years, including more than 10 years as an executive director for destination marketing organizations. Her educational background includes an undergraduate degree in English from Greensboro College and a Masters in Creative Writing from UNC-Wilmington. When not spearheading marketing, public relations, partner program and visitor information initiatives at the HCTDA, Owens enjoys time in her kitchen, cooking for company — while playing Appalachian bluegrass gospel in the background. Volume on high.

Ed Bell
Auxiliary Visitor Services & Events Assistant
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Ed’s roots in Henderson County’s summer camp business cultivated a lifelong love for welcoming others to Western North Carolina. With a knack for sharing local history and attractions, he’s your go-to source for exploring the area.
When he’s not guiding visitors, you’ll find him immersed in outdoor activities, often with his four dogs by his side. From building trails to exploring the wilderness, he’s passionate about showcasing the natural beauty of Henderson County.

Melanie Black
Manager of Communications
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Melanie graduated from Rider University with a BA in Journalism & American Studies, and got her career start in the non-profit sector — the perfect place for a young, wide-eyed, go-getter with workaholic tendencies. She eventually found a place at the HCTDA, liking the idea that she could help to market her adopted town to prospective visitors. While working in tourism marketing may be a far cry from her dream job as a child — a combo chef, librarian and astronaut — Melanie is glad she found this path, and loves that her job has enabled her to build so many connections within her community.  On weekends, you are likely to find Melanie at the Historic Train Depot with her train-loving kiddos or out for a hike, taking in the beauty and peace the forest has to offer. Melanie’s favorite vacation spot is anywhere she’s never been before.

Amy Boswell
Manager of Partner Programs
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Amy brings over a decade of experience in community recreation to her role. She loves helping tourism partners make the most of available resources and assisting visitors with trip planning. Amy’s talent lies in connecting partners with resources, both within TDA programs and beyond, fostering collaboration. Despite considering various career paths growing up, her passion for the outdoors, especially aquatics, remained strong. With a master’s degree in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, she found her calling in tourism. In her free time, Amy enjoys exploring Henderson County, from leisurely strolls on Main Street to adventures at Jump Off Rock and visits to local apple orchards. Her favorite vacations always involve water, whether it’s a lake, river, or ocean.

Laura Carlson
Auxiliary Office Assistant
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With nearly three decades of experience in Federal Government Human Resources, Laura transitioned to Henderson County in 2016, where she found fulfillment volunteering at the Welcome Center and later joining the TDA part-time. Interacting with visitors is her favorite aspect of the job, delighting in the joy they bring. Laura excels in providing timely information about Henderson County to everyone who comes into the Welcome Center. Encouraged by neighbors, she ventured into tourism and hasn’t looked back. In her downtime, Laura enjoys exploring Henderson County with her husband and dog, Trixie, particularly downtown, The Park at Flat Rock and events like Music on Main. Despite dreams of far-off vacations, Laura feels she’s living her ideal life right where she is, immersed in the beauty and community of Henderson County.

Ashley Downer
Communications Coordinator
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Ashley graduated from UNC Asheville with a BA in Mass Communications and a minor in Management. She brings a blend of experience to her role at HCTDA, having ventured from retail positions to a wedding planning internship before landing at the TDA. Her journey includes not one, but two internships with the TDA. While she had childhood dreams of becoming a chef with her own TV show, fate led her to the vibrant world of tourism, where she now enjoys creating schedules, calendars, and crafting engaging content. She enjoys exploring with her dog Buster to find the hidden spots and scenic views of Henderson County to share on social media. When not on duty, you can find her savoring Birria Tacos at Tequila’s Bar & Grill or putting her knowledge to the test at Bold Rock’s Wednesday night trivia. And when it comes to vacations, nothing beats the waters of John’s Pass at Madeira Beach.

Mimi Farley
Visitor Services and Events Assistant
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Mimi is a seasoned tourism enthusiast who spent an enjoyable 23 years with the Clearwater Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Centers, now passionately showcasing Henderson County’s mountainous beauty as part of the HCTDA team. With a knack for utilizing local maps to simplify navigation and a childhood dream of becoming a teacher, Mimi’s transition into tourism was a natural fit, driven by her inherent joy in assisting others with travel plans. When she’s not busy guiding visitors, you’ll likely find Mimi enjoying delicious plates from Hot Dog World and Fletcher Village Bakery or exploring scenic spots like Jump Off Rock and Flat Rock Park. Her favorite vacation spot is floating in the Gulf of Mexico.

Lisa Gale
Visitor Services and Events Assistant
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Lisa brings a wealth of experience to her role, having spent 25 years with Pacific Bell in California before retiring and embarking on a journey of travel and exploration. settling in Hendersonville. Her passion for assisting others shines through as she enjoys helping visitors of Hendersonville plan their trips, drawing on her own experiences to ensure each visit is a success. Lisa’s childhood dreams of becoming an archaeologist and writer reflect her curiosity and love for uncovering stories from the past, which she now channels into her role as a guide for tourists in Hendersonville. In her role, Lisa aims to share her passion for exploration and knowledge, ensuring that every visitor of Hendersonville has the opportunity to create unforgettable memories and discoveries. With her dedication, experience, and love for helping others, Lisa embodies the spirit of hospitality that defines Hendersonville as a welcoming destination for travelers from near and far.

Julie Hayes
Tourism Outreach Coordinator
[email protected]

Julie brings a wealth of healthcare experience and a strong love for travel and tourism to her role at HCTDA. With 8 years of expertise, she excels in collaborating with industry partners to showcase the area’s attractions. Her career began as a Recreation Therapist, providing essential support to patients with spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, and neurological disorders. However, a move to Henderson County sparked her transition to the vibrant world of travel and tourism. Prior to joining HCTDA, Julie honed her skills at renowned establishments like Biltmore Estate and Flat Rock Playhouse, fostering a deep appreciation for Henderson County’s unique charm. Now, she enjoys working closely with partners, staff, and volunteers to highlight the destination’s diverse offerings. Beyond her professional endeavors, Julie finds joy in exploring Henderson County’s landscapes with her dog, Polly, indulging in local restaurant delights like Shine and The Baker’s Box. With her dedication to service and community, Julie is a valued member of Henderson County’s tourism community.

 

Dara Hossley
Operations Coordinator
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With 21 years of county experience under her belt, Dara has seamlessly transitioned into her role at the HCTDA, where she thrives on managing budgets to effectively market Henderson County as a destination, utilizing her organizational skills to keep operations running smoothly. Despite her childhood dreams of becoming a mother and a nurse, Dara found her path leading to tourism. Outside the office, you’ll often find her enjoying the culinary delights of Hot Dog World or Harry’s, and when it’s time for a getaway, she enjoys the calm shores of Holden Beach, NC.

Brenda Miller
Auxiliary Office Assistant
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Brenda’s work history spans over three decades in various roles with Henderson County, where she retired in 2013 after 30 years of dedicated service. She found her way back into the workforce at HCTDA, drawn by her love for meeting and chatting with people from different places. Brenda’s knack for sharing local insights with visitors has made her a valuable part of the team for over a decade now.
When she’s not at work, Brenda enjoys coastal vacations with her family, although her heart remains in the mountains where she grew up. Retirement didn’t quite agree with her, but her part-time role at HCTDA has kept her engaged and fulfilled. She brings her friendly demeanor and hometown knowledge to every interaction, making visitors feel welcome and appreciated.

Janice Saville-Schwartz
Auxiliary Visitor Services & Events Assistant
[email protected]

Janice is a retired Paraeducator having worked with Special Education within the Baltimore County Public School System. After spending several years visiting Hendersonville, she and her husband, Don moved from Catonsville, Maryland to Hendersonville in 2019. Janice fell in Love with Main Street and all the area has to offer. During Janice and Don’s visits to Hendersonville, their Air B&B Host suggested to Janice upon retirement to volunteer at the Welcome Center. After volunteering a couple of years in the Welcome Center, an opportunity of employment came her way. Janice loves meeting new people and seems to find some sort of connection with visitors who walk into the Welcome Center. She enjoys eating at Henderson County’s restaurants, taking in a show at Flat Rock and Hendersonville Theaters, going to a brewery/winery and listening to local musicians. She enjoys putting itineraries together when family/friends come to visit. She is starting to travel the world and will travel back to Maryland at least once a year to see family/friends, attend an Oriole game, and get her fill of Maryland Steamed Crabs!

All advertising inquiries, please contact Paradise Advertising, [email protected].

For questions about this website, please contact Melanie Black, [email protected].

Find Information on the HCTDA Board here.

 

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