LEONARDTOWN, Maryland – In a significant development aimed at enhancing tourism and community engagement in St. Mary’s County, Visit St. Mary’s MD (VSMMD) has appointed Liz Mildenstein as its new Executive Director. Taking the helm on March 20, 2024, Mildenstein brings to the role a wealth of experience in public affairs and strategic communications, primarily gained through her 15-year tenure supporting the Department of Defense and various programs at Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR).

The announcement was made by VSMMD’s Board Chair, Jim Grube, who expressed the board’s enthusiasm for Mildenstein’s appointment. “On behalf of the board members of Visit St. Mary’s MD, I am excited to welcome Liz Mildenstein to lead the organization,” Grube stated. He highlighted the exhaustive search process that led to Mildenstein’s unanimous selection, praising her extensive background, passion for stakeholder engagement, and deep understanding of St. Mary’s County as key factors that make her the ideal candidate for the position.

Visit St. Mary’s MD, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting St. Mary’s County as a prime destination for visitors, plays a crucial role in the local economy and community development by showcasing the county’s tourism assets and attracting overnight guests. The organization’s efforts are pivotal in marketing this nationally renowned heritage and historic area as a leading travel destination in the mid-Atlantic region.

Mildenstein expressed her excitement about her new role, viewing it as an opportunity to leverage her experience and passion for the benefit of her community. “I am thrilled to begin my journey with Visit St Mary’s,” she said. “The opportunity to translate my experience and passion to the community where I live has been a dream of mine. I am beyond excited to join the team and advocate for the invaluable experiences our county offers.”

Under Mildenstein’s leadership, Visit St. Mary’s MD aims to further engage the community in developing a tourism culture that not only complements but also welcomes visitors, thereby contributing to the sustained growth and prosperity of St. Mary’s County.

For more information about travel to and around Maryland’s Original Destination, St. Mary’s County, interested individuals are encouraged to visit VisitStMarysMD.com.


David M. Higgins II is an award-winning journalist passionate about uncovering the truth and telling compelling stories. Born in Baltimore and raised in Southern Maryland, he has lived in several East...

Leave a comment

Leave a Reply