BUCYRUS — The Bucyrus Tourism and Visitors Bureau ’s Board of Directors has named Max Miller its executive director, effective immediately.

A native of Bucyrus, Miller graduated from Bucyrus High School in 2006. He earned a bachelor’s degree in communication technology from The Ohio State University and a master’s degree in Recreation Park and Tourism Administration from Western Illinois University.

After serving as a volunteer with the Peace Corps in Cameroon, Africa for two years, Miller returned to the States to work in economic and community development in Illinois, eventually making his way back to Ohio. His new role at the Tourism Bureau provides an opportunity to make a difference in his hometown.

“I am eager to take on the executive director role with the Bucyrus Tourism and Visitors Bureau ,” said Miller. “ I believe in a collaborative, regional approach to promoting the activities, businesses, and events that make this community such a unique place to visit. ”

Mike Dostal, board president, said that M iller ’s education and experiences make him an excellent fit for the role.

“We’re excited to have Max on Board and look forward to his ideas and leadership – it’s always great to have a young professional come back to our community to start a new career ,” said Dostal. “With our recent office move, we’re in a collaborative environment that will help us leverage resources and support for local businesses, economic and community development, and tourism as a driver for community success.”

Miller said that collaboration is key in his vision for the direction of the Tourism Bureau.

“I look forward to building relationships with business owners, community leaders, and local organizations to highlight our assets and share our success stories. I want to increase our social capital as a community to establish an inclusive, w elcoming environment for our guests that motivates them to come back to the area ,” said Miller.

Despite a new location and new leadership, Dostal said the Tourism Bureau remains focused on its goals to enhance the community through tourism and to share the places and people that make the Bucyrus area a destination of choice for visitors.

“On behalf of our Board, we’d like to thank former director Trish Ratliff for her efforts during her tenure. She’s pursuing new opportunities, and we wish her well,” said D ostal. “We have so much to offer in Bucyrus and in Crawford County as a whole, and I think Max will really build on the energy of great work that’s being done here. We’re excited about the future of the Tourism Bureau and the future of our community.”

To l earn more about the Bucyrus Tourism and Visitors Bureau, visit www.visitbucyrus.com or call 419-56 -0720