#DESTINATIONMUNCIE
#YOUVEGOTTOSEETHIS
About Us
Get to know us
About Destination: Muncie
OUR MISSION
Destination: Muncie works tirelessly to enhance the economy and quality of life of the Muncie/ Delaware County by collaboratively leading the marketing and promotion of the region’s attractions, cultural assets, and outdoor as a magnet for people from around the world.
OUR VISION
Muncie and Delaware County will be known and respected for offering extensive, unique, one-of-a-kind experiences that entertain and educate in one of the best towns in the U.S.
Muncie:
The place
we call home.
Our vibrant community offers a spectacle of fantastic, world-class opportunities to experience whatever your passion may be. When setting foot in our Delaware County you will quickly realize, first-hand, the true meaning of “Hoosier Hospitality. “Here, you will soon discover a new favorite getaway destination. Lasting memories are created here, and our inclusive attitudes will please and excite any traveler.
Let us help you plan your next visit… We are happy to help!
Did you know?
MUNCIE ICONS
Bob Ross
Bob Ross, the artist famous for painting “happy little trees,” filmed his captivating half-hour show inside a historic home in Muncie in the 80s. With his soothing voice and effortless brushstrokes, Bob Ross inspired many across the world to embrace the joy of painting. Now a part of Minnetrista’s campus, the historic home has been transformed into an immersive museum exhibit that transports visitors to where the magic happened.
Jim Davis & Garfield
Jim Davis, the mastermind behind the global phenomenon that is Garfield comics, embarked on his artistic journey at Ball State University. It was here that Davis fine-tuned his artistic skills, setting the stage for the creation of the lasagna-loving, Monday-hating, iconic orange cat we all adore.
Visit over a dozen unique statues of America’s favorite fat cat created during Garfield’s 25th birthday celebration located throughout the community.
David Letterman
David Letterman, the well-known late-night talk show host, began honing his craft at Ball State University. As a student, Letterman showcased his unique wit by playing the worst songs imaginable and creating fake news stories for his college radio gig. Little did the university and Muncie know, it was fostering the talents of a future icon in the world of television.
Learn more about the David Letterman Learning Experience at Ball State University
Meet the team
LaShanta Vaughn knows Muncie as few do. No one has presented Muncie more than she has in the last five years through her roles in managing and leading the Horizon Convention Center sales efforts . She’s a true industry professional with an additional decade of experience in tourism in central Indiana.
Additionally, LaShanta knows how to lead teams and drive win-win scenarios. Her love for Muncie is second only to her desire to help her clients succeed, which has always motivated her most.
Whether you are looking for a memorable place to bring your convention or event, or just taking an overnight with friends for a one-of-a-kind art experience, or a great bike or hike, LaShanta will connect you with exactly what “you’ve got to see” in Muncie and Delaware County.
LaShanta is a married mother of two and granddaughter of one, whom she just taught her favorite hobby, roller skating.
Most importantly, LaShanta is authentic and down to earth, as evidenced by her favorite quote- “Life is like a piano. The white keys represent happy days, and the black keys represent the sad ones. Remember, that you need both to make music.”
Lori was born and raised in Delaware County. She has an abundance of business & sales experience, having worked in the private sector and previously created and ran a small business in South Muncie for several years. Lori brings a unique insight about Muncie and Delaware County to Destination Muncie, and is passionate about promoting both.
Gretchen was born and raised in Henry County but has lived in Delaware County for over 30 years. She brings a wealth of knowledge to her position, having retired from Ball State University. Upon retirement she chose to continue her career in the private sector. She has a passion for her community and appreciates the opportunity being a Destination: Muncie team member gives her to share the many great things in Muncie and Delaware County.
Gretchen has close ties with her Irish heritage. It was through these connections she became active lobbying for immigration reform over the years, making regular trips to Washington, D.C. to meet with legislators as well as traveling the United States speaking on the topic.
Gretchen has four grandchildren who are active in sports and school activities and fills her spare time supporting their various interests.
Her favorite quote is, “We are not to simply bandage the wounds of victims beneath the wheels of injustice, we are to drive a spoke into the wheel itself.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer, German Pastor, Executed at Flossenburg Concentration Camp, 1945
Lena Reid is a team player with an eye for detail. As a small business owner, she has developed a wide spectrum of skills, including digital marketing and content creation which make her perfect in her role with Destination: Muncie.
Lena has also been a key player in the ongoing development of Muncie’s Madjax Maker Force, a downtown collaboration of employers and educators that facilitates entrepreneurial development. She has handled event management and community engagement while curating social media posts and graphic design.
Because of our area’s incredible natural resources, Lena and her family spend lots of time together camping, especially at Prairie Creek Reservoir, where they have a seasonal site. Lena also volunteers with Muncie Civic Theatre, which has developed a national reputation for excellence.
Lena lives by Eleanor Roosevelt’s quote, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
Board of Directors
Jarod Walls – President
Nick Papandria – Vice President
Dillon Carpenter – Treasurer
Sally Piper – Secretary
Heidi Hale
Kenneth Reed
Yolanda Taylor
Mikah Wilson
Ashley Wright