BEATRICE – The director of a southeast Nebraska development organization has been named by Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen, to the Nebraska Tourism Commission.

Gage Area Growth Enterprise Executive Director Rachel Kreikemeier’s appointment to the state commission was recently confirmed by the Nebraska Legislature.

Kreikemeier will serve as a commission representative in District Three, which represents Gage, Jefferson, Johnson, Nemaha, Otoe, Saline, Pawnee and Richardson Counties.

Commissioners work to promote Nebraska as a premier travel destination….in support of the state’s third-largest industry.   Kreikemeier noted that tourism plays a vital role in economic development by generating revenue, helping investment in infrastructure and services and creating jobs.

She said tourists spend money on accommodations, food, entertainment and transportation….and tourism often encourages preserving cultural heritage and natural resources.