OVERLAND PARK, Kan.
Dr. Jerry Cook, president of the Overland Park Convention & Visitors Bureau, will retire Dec. 31, 2014, after 18 years of overseeing the nonprofit tourism organization.
"Under Jerry's leadership and commitment, Overland Park's hotel occupancy has reached its highest levels, and the city has evolved into a premier destination for meetings, conventions and sports events," said Board Chairman Bruce Boettcher. "He has always represented Overland Park in the best of ways and we thank him for his countless contributions."
Among the highlights of Cook's tenure include his role in the development and promotion of the Overland Park Convention Center, Sheraton Overland Park Hotel and the Overland Park Soccer Complex. He has served on many boards including the Overland Park Chamber of Commerce, the Travel Industry Association of Kansas, the Hotel and Lodging Association of Kansas City and Destination Marketing Association International.
Following his retirement, Cook plans to continue his role as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Johnson County Community College, as well as serve as the Chairman of the Kansas Association of Community College Trustees and the Kansas State Coordinator for the National Association of Community College Trustees.
Leawood-based executive recruitment firm EFL Associates has begun the national search for Cook's replacement as a leader of the Overland Park CVB.
Located in the Kansas City metro area, Overland Park offers upscale shopping, unique attractions and museums, over 250 restaurants and its entertainment district, Prairiefire.
