HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT) - An Owensboro leader will soon provide leadership to the statewide level.

Claude Bacon has been elected as the Chair of the Kentucky Travel Industry Association. Bacon is the current President and CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation and current board chair of Visit Owensboro.

According to a release, Bacon has been elected to serve as the 2026 chair of KTIA. He was recognized during the 2025 KTIA Annual Conference in Louisville.

Officials state Bacon has served on the KTIA board since 2020 and has held leadership roles such as Secretary in 2023, Treasurer in 2024 and Chair-elect in 2025.

In his new role, Bacon will guide Kentucky's tourism sector as a driver of jobs, investment and community vibrancy.

“Tourism plays a critical role in eco

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