The Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Susan Gulley as director of cultural and heritage tourism, a position previously held by the late Dr. Ginna Foster Cannon at the Rutherford County Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB).

 

"I am thankful for this opportunity and look forward to representing a county that has so many cultural and heritage experiences," said Susan Gulley. "I am ready to get to work promoting our vibrant arts community, natural beauty, rich history and friendly people.” 

 

In this position, Gulley will use her extensive arts and culture background to drive tourism to Rutherford County’s cultural and heritage attractions and events. Gulley, an already active member of the arts community, will continue working with Rutherford County partners to pinpoint and incorporate tourism assets. Her new role will begin on March 16, 2020.

 

“Rutherford County is a vibrant community rich with history, culture and a thriving arts scene,” said Rutherford County Convention & Visitors Bureau Senior Vice President Barbara Wolke. “We are proud that Dr. Ginna Foster Cannon laid the foundation for promoting the richness of Rutherford, and we are excited to have Susan Gulley join us in our efforts to increase tourism.”

 

Gulley comes to the CVB from Carpe Artista, a local arts education nonprofit in Smyrna, TN. While serving as a founding board member and COO/CFO, Gulley worked to cast vision and growth in the arts and culture in North Rutherford County and Middle Tennessee. Gulley graduated from Middle Tennessee State University with a Bachelor in Fine Arts with an emphasis in commercial design and photography.

 

“Cultural and heritage tourism is an important initiative for the Chamber and CVB,” said Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce President Paul Latture. “Gulley is a valuable addition to our team. I have no doubt that her experience, passion and tenacity will result in great things for our county.”

 

Prior to Carpe Artista, she worked for Nissan Trading Corporation of America as an export analyst in production control for Suzuki, WWL and Nissan North America as well as assistant supervisor for tier sales and purchasing/service Sales. Susan is a visual artist specializing in stage design and construction, mural painting and graphic arts for local and global initiatives. Gulley has over 30 years of performance and instruction experience in visual arts, graphic design, music and theatre. Her community involvement includes serving as a founding board member and treasurer of the Rutherford Arts Alliance, treasurer of the Smyrna Artist Cooperative, a diplomat with the Chamber of Commerce and a disaster shelter coordinator with the American Red Cross.