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Discover Schenectady Names Elissa Fornasiero President

Discover Schenectady has named Elissa Fornasiero as its new president, following her service as interim president since May. Fornasiero, who joined the organization in 2021, brings more than a decade of experience in hospitality, destination marketing, sales leadership and business development to her new role.

Fornasiero was appointed interim president May 21 after previously serving as Discover Schenectady’s vice president of convention sales and services. During her tenure with the organization, she has played a key role in promoting Schenectady County as a destination for conventions, meetings and group events, building strategic partnerships and supporting the region’s growing tourism and hospitality industry.

“Elissa has demonstrated the leadership, vision and commitment to our community that we believe are essential to moving Discover Schenectady forward,” said Cathy Gatta, chair of the Discover Schenectady Board of Directors. “Her extensive industry experience, strong relationships throughout the region and deep understanding of our organization make her the ideal person to lead Discover Schenectady into its next chapter. The board has tremendous confidence in her ability to build on our success and create new opportunities for Schenectady County.”

As president, Fornasiero will oversee Discover Schenectady’s efforts to promote Schenectady County as a destination for leisure travel, conventions, meetings, sporting events and group tourism, while working with community partners to increase visitation, support local businesses and strengthen the region’s tourism economy.

“Tourism plays an important role in Schenectady County’s economy, supporting our hotels, restaurants, attractions and businesses while bringing new visitors and investment to the region,” said Subhash Modasra, vice chair of the Discover Schenectady Board of Directors. “Elissa understands the importance of collaboration and building partnerships that produce results. Her leadership will be instrumental as we continue to expand our reach, attract new events and showcase everything Schenectady County has to offer.” 

Prior to being named interim president, Fornasiero directed Discover Schenectady’s convention sales initiatives, developing relationships with hotels, venues, meeting planners and community stakeholders. She also represented the agency at industry trade shows, association conferences and client events, helping increase visibility and attract new business to the region.

Before joining Discover Schenectady, Fornasiero served as director of sales and marketing at Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid, overseeing sales, marketing, public relations and event operations. During her tenure, the property’s social media presence earned national recognition from Forbes, and her sales team received a 2019 Sales Team of the Year award.

She previously served as director of sales at Courtyard by Marriott in Lake Placid, where she increased group sales by 30% and secured 25 new accounts within her first six months. She began her hospitality sales career at The Saratoga Hilton in Saratoga Springs.

“I am honored to take on this role and grateful to the board for its confidence and support,” said Fornasiero. “Schenectady County has so much to offer, from our vibrant downtown and historic attractions to our restaurants, entertainment venues and growing lineup of festivals and events. I’m fortunate to work with an incredible team and dedicated community partners who share a passion for this region. I look forward to building on that momentum, strengthening our partnerships and finding new ways to bring visitors to Schenectady County while supporting the businesses and venues that make it such a special place.” 

Fornasiero holds a Bachelor of Science in business management from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh.