MATARANGAS KING NOMINATED FOR USVI TOURISM COMMISSIONER

Photo courtesy of Government House - US Virgin Islands/Facebook

Jennifer Matarangas King, a longtime communications and public affairs executive in the USVI, has been nominated by Gov. Albert Bryan, Jr., to serve as the next commissioner of the Department of Tourism, according to a news release issued by Government House on July 28.

“Tourism is more than our economy. It is how we tell our story to the world and create opportunity for the people of the Virgin Islands,” Gov. Bryan said. “Jennifer understands that. She is a strategic thinker, a skilled communicator, and a proud Virgin Islander with a deep commitment to service. I am confident that she will lead the Department of Tourism with vision and distinction.”

A native of St. Croix, Mrs. Matarangas King brings close to three decades of experience in public relations, government affairs, and strategic leadership in both the public and private sectors. She is widely known and regarded for her successful tenure at Viya, the leading telecommunications provider in the territory, where she led public relations, community engagement, and corporate communications. Viya was recently renamed as One Communications.

Throughout her storied career, Mrs. Matarangas King has worked as a press secretary to USVI Gov. Dr. Roy L. Schneider and public relations director for Sen. Vargrave Richards, then vice president of the 22nd Legislature. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Smith College and a master’s degree in organizational communication from Howard University.

“I am honored and humbled by this opportunity to serve,” Mrs. Matarangas King said during a Government House press briefing that announced her new role. “Tourism is one of the most powerful tools we have for shaping the future of these Virgin Islands. It helps attract investment, create jobs, and celebrate who we are. I look forward to building on the strong foundation that has already been laid and helping to take our product, our people, and our potential to the next level.”

Outgoing Tourism Commissioner Joe Boschulte will remain with the department for a brief period to support a smooth transition. Gov. Bryan credited Boschulte for helping the USVI achieve “historic visitor numbers, strengthened partnerships with major airlines and cruise lines, and elevated our global brand.”

Gov. Bryan will submit Mrs. Matarangas King’s nomination to the 36th Legislature to begin the confirmation process.