[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced that John Edman will continue to serve as the Director of Explore MN Tourism. Mr. Edman has served as the Director since his initial appointment in 2004.

“Minnesota is making a name for itself as a place travelers should come visit with its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and welcoming people,” Governor Walz said. “Director Edman has played an instrumental role in welcoming people into our state and we look forward to working with him to encourage those who live here, and those who come to visit, to continue exploring our great state.”

“Minnesota is a state of innovation, exploration, and inspiration for all who visit,” Lieutenant Governor Flanagan said. “Our rich and diverse state has a lot to offer and we are excited to announce Director Edman’s continued leadership at Explore Minnesota Tourism to ensure people nationwide feel welcome to explore our home state.”

“I am so honored and excited to be reappointed by Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan as Director of Explore Minnesota,” said John Edman. “Minnesota tourism has continued to build momentum over the past several years, but it has never been more exciting than it is today. I look forward to working with the Administration and people throughout the state to spread a welcoming message and inspire even more travelers to experience all that Minnesota has to offer.”

About John Edman

Mr. Edman was first appointed as Director of the Office of Tourism in 2000 and then appointed as the Director of Explore Minnesota Tourism when it was created in 2004. Prior to his appointment, he was Director at Carlson Companies, Director of Mississippi River Country, Executive Director of the Minnesota River Parkway Commission, and Marketing Communications Manager with Enright and Associates. He earned his B.S. from the University of Minnesota, his M.B.A. from the University of St. Thomas, and completed the executive leadership program at the Carlson School of Management.

As the state's tourism promotion office, Explore Minnesota pursues an entrepreneurial approach, leveraging the state's tourism investment with increased involvement by the private sector. Tourism is a $15.3 billion industry in Minnesota, and a key sector of the state's economy. The leisure and hospitality industry–a major provider of tourism services–employs more than 270,000 workers, representing 11 percent of Minnesota's private sector employment. Leisure and hospitality also generates 18 percent of the state's sales tax revenues. Minnesota welcomes more than 73 million domestic and international travelers annually.