The Terre Haute Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) Board announces the retirement of David Patterson, who has served as the Executive Director for three decades. Patterson's visionary leadership transformed Terre Haute and West Central Indiana into a premier destination for sporting events and tourism.
During Patterson's tenure, the Lavern Gibson Cross Country Course has garnered national attention, firmly establishing Terre Haute as a championship hub for cross country events. West Central Indiana has earned the title of "Cross Country Town USA," hosting prestigious events such as the NCAA Division I and III National Championships and IHSAA State Finals as well as the annual Nike Cross Country Town meet. In addition, West Central Indiana developed a sports town destination moniker under Patterson’s leadership, playing host to anchor events including Terre Haute Quarter Midget Nationals, the USA Gymnastics Trampoline and Tumbling Regionals, and Special Olympics Indiana.
Patterson's unwavering dedication and strategic vision have significantly raised the region's prominence within the sports community, drawing athletes, spectators, and media attention from across the nation. In the realm of cross country, Terre Haute has witnessed an impressive influx of 70,000 athletes competing at the LaVern Gibson Cross Country Course during Patterson’s leadership. The Nike Twilight meet in 2023 alone attracted 7,000 runners from 11 states. Additionally, the course has proudly hosted 16 NCAA Division I and III championships and is set to host the NCAA Division III Championships in 2024.
Over the past few decades, Patterson contributed towards remarkable growth in tourism, with record-breaking numbers in visitor arrivals and revenues. In 2023, Terre Haute welcomed an impressive 260,000 overnight visitors to Vigo County, marking a significant milestone in the region's tourism industry, surpassing its pre-COVID numbers. Patterson's commitment to promoting Terre Haute and Vigo County as a vibrant and welcoming destination has contributed to the economic prosperity and cultural enrichment of the community.
Reflecting on his time, Patterson expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the Terre Haute community. "It has been an honor to lead the Terre Haute Convention and Visitors Bureau for the past 30 years," said Patterson. "I am immensely proud of the accomplishments we have achieved together and the positive impact we have made on our community. As I embark on this new chapter of my life, I am confident that the CVB will continue to thrive and remain a beacon of hospitality and excellence."
"We are grateful to David for his outstanding leadership, unwavering dedication, and invaluable contributions to the organization and the community. This growth, due in great part to an intentional emphasis on building our region as a sports destination, has David’s handiwork all over it," said Karrum Nasser, Vice President, CVB Board.
“The board remains committed to building upon David’s legacy and advancing Vigo County’s position as a premier destination for visitors as we continue to grow our tourism sector with such additions as the new Larry Bird Museum and a revitalized historic Indiana Theater,” added Nasser.
Patterson’s retirement is scheduled for April 1, 2024, and the board is currently in the process of planning for the transition.