Staff
Ashley Woitena
President and CEO
Ashley is an experienced President and CEO with a history of working in the hospitality industry. She is skilled in nonprofit organizations, negotiation, budgeting, and planning. She is a strong sales professional with an MBA (Master of Business Administration), Leadership Excellence Certification (LEC), TMP (Tourism Marketing Professional) Designation, and Destinations International CDME Credential.
Danielle Ackerman
Director of Marketing and Communications
Danielle is a destination marketing leader with 17 years of experience spanning DMOs, agencies, and MarTech. She is a passionate storyteller who blends data-driven strategy with creativity and advocates for DMOs as a force for good in their communities.
Tonja Ray-Smith
Director of Sales
A certified Travel Marketing Professional (TMP) and Festival & Events Professional (FEP), Ray-Smith brings specialized expertise in event management, strategic planning, and destination marketing. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated exceptional skills in building community partnerships, executing successful marketing campaigns, and driving tourism growth. For assistance with Corporate, Government, Education, Group Leisure, or Civic gatherings, call Tonja at 706.256.4348.
Sylvester Young
Sales Manager
With over 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Sylvester knows that relationships are the foundation of every great partnership. His ability to connect with people and build lasting trust has taken his career — and his clients — to new heights.
A proud Midwest native, Sylvester made his way to Georgia in 2014 and has proudly called the beautiful city of Columbus home ever since.
Whether you need answers, direction, or just a great conversation, Sylvester is always just a call away. Reach him directly at 706.256.4347 — he'll make sure you're taken care of, or connect you with exactly the right person who can.
Joel Slocumb
Columbus Film Commissioner
In his role, Joel works in the Columbus Film Office, which is part of VisitColumbusGA and is your one-stop shop for film production resources in the area. VisitColumbusGA and its Film Commission serve as the direct liaison with the Georgia Film, Music & Digital Entertainment Office, offering film and television production companies easier, faster, and better access to local resources and information.
Kim Gonzalez
Accountant/HR-Office Manager
Kim has been with VisitColumbusGA since 2022 and is a vital part of the team, taking care of Finance, Human Resources—everything to keep office and staff operation running smoothly and efficiently. She has over 30 years of accounting experience and previously worked for a local CPA firm, working with many local businesses to maintain their accounting, tax, and payroll needs.
Kiana Burroughs
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Kiana brings eight years of marketing communications experience from the nonprofit, state government, and private healthcare sectors. After graduating from Vanderbilt University, she taught English in China for a year before returning to the States. This role combines her passion for travel and her professional experience with her love for the town she calls home.
Kudos from Planners
“Ashley and the team are amazing and always make us feel welcome!”
“CVB Staff should receive roses.”
Source: Meeting Planner Survey/Interviews
Visitor Verbatims: 1st Time Visitor Perception Changes
“More attractions than I expected.”
“All the work they’ve done on the downtown area.”
Source: Destination Perception Survey
We’re Here for You
Do you have any questions for the VisitColumbusGA team? Reach out to us.
If you’re interested in bringing your meeting, convention, event, or reunion to Columbus, contact one of our team members above or submit your RFP.