LCVC Achieves Accreditation - 07/28/2008

The Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commission (LCVC) announced today that it is the first tourist commission in Louisiana to be awarded accreditation from the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP).

DMAP is an international accreditation program developed by the Washington, DC based Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI). In earning the DMAP accreditation, destination marketing organizations (DMOs) communicate to their community, buyers and potential visitors that their DMO has attained a significant measure of excellence.

“The Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commission is honored to receive this accreditation,” said Gerald Breaux, LCVC executive director. “We are very pleased to be recognized in the destination marketing community for providing outstanding services that meet international standards in tourism.”

“By applying for and receiving DMAP accreditation, the Lafayette CVC has demonstrated a commitment to quality programs and services,” said Barry Biggar, CDME, DMAP Board Chair. “Earning DMAP accreditation tells the people of Acadiana and potential visitors that your DMO has attained a measure of excellence assuring that their trust is well placed and their business is in good hands.”

LCVC serves as a promotional and marketing coordinator for Lafayette and the surrounding Acadiana parishes. The staff works year-round to attract group and individual visitors, as well as meetings, sporting events and reunions. This is accomplished through a variety of activities including tradeshows, sales missions, advertising, publicity and Internet marketing.

DMAP accreditation standards cover a wide variety of topics including governance, finance, management, human resources, technology, visitor services, group services, sales communications, membership, brand management, destination development, research/market intelligence, innovation and stakeholder relationships. DMAP is an independent international accreditation body and a leader in defining quality and performance issues in destination marketing.