Release Date: May 6, 2025

VisitColumbusGA Names Tonja Ray-Smith as New Director of Sales

Columbus, GA: VisitColumbusGA is pleased to announce the appointment of Tonja Ray-Smith, TMP, FEP, as its new Director of Sales. With over 20 years of experience in the tourism industry, Ray-Smith brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Columbus’s destination marketing organization.

“We are thrilled to welcome Tonja to our leadership team,” said Ashley Woitena, President-CEO of VisitColumbusGA. “Her proven track record in tourism marketing and extensive industry relationships will be invaluable as we continue to position Columbus as a premier destination for leisure travelers, meetings, and events.”

Ray-Smith most recently served as Vice President of Marketing and Communications for the Southeast Tourism Society (STS), where she led marketing initiatives and managed the organization's prestigious award programs. Her background includes executive leadership roles at multiple convention and visitors bureaus, including serving as Executive Director for the Grenada Tourism Commission, Yazoo County CVB, and Greenwood CVB in Mississippi.

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.

“I am excited to join the talented team at VisitColumbusGA and look forward to showcasing all that this vibrant destination has to offer,” said Ray-Smith. “Columbus has incredible tourism assets, from its rich cultural history and outdoor recreation along the Chattahoochee River to its thriving arts scene and unique culinary experiences. I’m eager to develop strategic sales initiatives that will attract more visitors and generate economic impact for the community.”

Ray-Smith will lead the organization’s sales efforts, focusing on meeting and convention sales, group tour development, and building partnerships with local hospitality stakeholders. She will begin her new role on June 2, 2025.

VisitColumbusGA serves as the official destination marketing organization for Columbus, Georgia. Tourism continues to be big business in Columbus. In FY 2024, VisitColumbusGA tracked over 2.07 million visitors to Columbus, resulting in more than $377 million in economic impact, supporting 4,491 jobs with an estimated payroll of over $151 million; as well as generating $26 million in lodging and sales tax for the city. Visitors to Columbus generated over $20 million in tax revenue for the county and state, providing $639 in tax relief for Columbus households.