Melissa A. Riley serves as the Senior Vice President of Convention Sales and Services at Destination DC, the official convention and tourism corporation for the nation’s capital. Bringing over 25 years of experience in the travel and hospitality industry, Riley leads a dedicated team tasked with bolstering the economic impact of the city. Under her guidance, DDC has launched the Connected project, a strategic initiative designed to enhance DC’s appeal as a premier destination for meetings and events. This effort includes three main pillars: Connected Capital, which leverages DC’s industry strengths; Connected Campus, focusing on unique event spaces; and Connected Community, aimed at enabling visitors to make a lasting positive impact on the city.

Riley has been instrumental in strengthening partnerships between DDC, the local hotel community, and Events DC, significantly increasing the city’s event hosting capabilities. She also plays a vital role on the global stage, serving as the deputy chairperson for the International Congress and Convention Association North America Chapter and as Chair of Destinations International’s Large Market Round Table. Riley earned her Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Virginia Tech and maintains active memberships in the Professional Convention Management Association, International Association of Exhibition Executives and Destinations International. A native of Reston, Virginia, she is a longtime resident of the District of Columbia.