San Diego (Feb. 27, 2008) -- Having a positive impact on the convention and meeting industry as well as promoting diversity has earned Carol Wallace, president and CEO of the San Diego Convention Center Corporation, the Black Meetings & Tourism’s 2008 APEX Award. Black Meetings & Tourism is considered the leading publication and authority on African-American conventions, incentives and leisure travel. “It’s wonderful to see Carol recognized for her exceptional contributions to the industry,” said Cheryl Kendrick, chair of the Corporation’s board of directors. “She’s an outstanding leader who has earned the respect of her peers and colleagues throughout the industry and within the San Diego community. Her vision has made our Convention Center one of the best in the world.” Under Wallace’s leadership, the Corporation had its most successful year ever in FY2007. The Convention Center generated an all-time high $1.56 billion in regional economic impact, brought in a record 983,706 attendees and surpassed all previous years filling 738,758 hotel room nights as a result of events held in the building. Wallace, who has more than 25 years experience in the convention and facility management industry, joined the San Diego Convention Center Corporation team in 1991. The APEX Award was established in 2001 to honor professionals within the travel and tourism industry for outstanding service, as well as contributions which enhance and promote diversity. Wallace was selected by a blue ribbon panel of judges comprised of industry professionals. Previous recipients include Kweisi Mfume, former president and CEO of the NAACP. The award will be presented April 27, 2008, at the Marriott New Orleans during the Travel Professionals of Color’s 6th Annual Conference. The San Diego Convention Center Corporation is a public benefit corporation created by the City of San Diego. The Corporation is exclusively responsible for marketing, managing and operating the Convention Center. In its 19-year history, the Center has generated nearly $15.2 billion in economic impact, over $309.8 million in tax revenues and continues to serve as San Diego’s premier gathering place. # # #
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