Josh Paluh is our new Marketing Manager and brings a strong background in marketing strategy, creative content creation, and a passion for storytelling. He is eager to collaborate on campaigns that inspire connection and engagement across Utah's diverse communities and landscapes. In his free time, you can usually find Josh digging in his vegetable garden, hiking in the Wasatch Mountains, or training for a race. Don't hesitate to reach out to Josh directly at [email protected]. 

Jasmine Simpson is our new Web Content Specialist. Drawing on her valuable experiences in creative writing and content, she is passionate about crafting engaging stories and leveraging compelling content for online success. She is driven to create web experiences that capture Utah's charm while inspiring visitors to explore its breathtaking destinations. Some of her personal favorites include Moonscape Overlook and Capitol Reef. You can email Jasmine at [email protected]

Just as preparations for the 2025 Co-op Marketing Grant cycle ramp up, we're thrilled to welcome Michelle Evans as our new Grants Specialist. Joining the Community and Partner Relations team, Michelle is eager to contribute her extensive knowledge and passion to making this Co-op round the most successful yet. A former Tourism Director for Beaver County, Michelle has a proven track record in tourism, grants, and project management. She brings a wealth of experience in leading community initiatives, securing successful grants, developing impactful marketing campaigns, and managing public programs. 

As you gear up for Co-op 2025, please don't hesitate to reach out and connect with Michelle directly at [email protected] -

Laici Shumway has joined the Community and Partner Relations team as Partner Outreach & Collaboration Coordinator. Laici is from Blanding but has lived in Moab for many years.  Laici will focus on partner outreach primarily in the southeast region of Utah, including San Juan, Grand, Emery, and Carbon counties. She will also be responsible for collaboration to integrate tourism into broader economic and community development efforts and support the CaPR team in destination development projects. 

Laici brings a wealth of experience at USU as the Technical Education Program Coordinator, Executive Director of the Moab Chamber of Commerce, and Marketing Manager for Moab Giants Dinosaur Park and Museum. Laici holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Utah State University.

Laici's deep understanding of the southeast region and her commitment to fostering collaborative relationships will be instrumental in UOT's efforts to support enduring tourism and economic growth throughout the state.

Tera Atwood is the new Global Markets Specialist at the Utah Office of Tourism, beginning March 10. She will represent the Asia Pacific (APAC) markets—including Australia, New Zealand, China, and India—along with Canada and Mexico. She will work closely with in-market representatives, provide market expertise, and support strategic initiatives to share Utah with the world.

Tera spent the past two years as the Marketing and Communications Manager for UOT’s domestic marketing team. She has a background in marketing, project management, client relations, event organizing, and community engagement, as well as experience in the non-profit sector.

Throughout her career, fostering connections and creating meaningful opportunities for communities has been her greatest passion. For Tera, working in tourism is more than a job—it’s about building bridges between people and places. She loves being part of an industry that generates growth and economic opportunity while sharing the beauty of her home state. Outside of work, you’ll most likely find her in the mountains, exploring the outdoors, or embracing the next adventure.