Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. on Thursday swore in Jennifer Matarangas-King as commissioner of the Virgin Islands Tourism Department during a ceremony at Government House attended by family members, colleagues and supporters.
Matarangas-King took the oath of office alongside her daughter, Alexis. The oath was administered by Superior Court Judge Venetia Harvey Velazquez, Government House announced in a press release.
“Tourism is the front door to our economy, and the story it tells must be true to who we are and strong enough to compete anywhere in the world,” Bryan said. “Commissioner Matarangas-King understands both the business and the brand of the Virgin Islands.”
Bryan said Matarangas-King will lead the agency with a focus on ensuring the benefits of tourism reach residents on St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John.
The governor nominated Matarangas-King in July, and the 36th Legislature confirmed her in November, the press release stated.
Following the oath, Bryan pinned Matarangas-King with the golden eagle lapel pin worn by members of the governor’s cabinet, marking her entry into the Bryan-Roach administration, the release stated.
“I step into this role with gratitude and with an unwavering commitment to serve,” Matarangas-King said.
“Tourism must continue to deliver real opportunity for Virgin Islanders,” she said. “We will elevate the visitor experience, strengthen our partnerships, support our local businesses, and tell the Virgin Islands story with authenticity, pride and excellence.”
A St. Croix native, Matarangas-King is a longtime communications and public affairs executive. She assumes leadership of the Tourism Department as the territory continues efforts to expand airlift, cruise activity and on-island experiences highlighting Virgin Islands culture and heritage, the release stated.
