Susan Riddle Named Tourism Professional of the Year
The former bureau leader has been recognized for her work before stepping into a new role at Mylan Park.
Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Seasonal Events
Live Poll
Do regional holiday-themed events successfully improve tourism in your community during winter months?
Susan Riddle received the 2026 Tourism Professional of the Year award. She previously led the Visit Mountaineer Country Convention and Visitors Bureau for 10 years before joining Mylan Park as CEO in July 2026.
Why it matters
Riddle is pivoting to oversee new regional initiatives at Mylan Park following a decade of service in the tourism sector. Her leadership is now focused on upcoming local winter attractions designed to boost regional retail and tourism.
Riddle dedicated 10 years of service to the Visit Mountaineer Country Convention and Visitors Bureau. She assumed the role of CEO at Mylan Park in July 2026.
The players
Susan Riddle
The current CEO of Mylan Park and 2026 Tourism Professional of the Year served as the president of the local convention and visitors bureau for a decade.
Mylan Park
This venue in Morgantown is hosting the upcoming Mountain Glow West Virginia holiday attraction.
The details
Mylan Park is set to debut the Mountain Glow West Virginia holiday event, which features an experiential walk of lights. The attraction will operate for 21 days between November 27 and December 23 to showcase the region during the winter season.
Timeline
July 2026: Susan Riddle became the CEO of Mylan Park.
2026: Susan Riddle was named Tourism Professional of the Year.
November 27, 2026: Mountain Glow West Virginia begins its run.
December 23, 2026: The Mountain Glow West Virginia event concludes.
Industry Dynamics
This event reflects the ongoing trend of regional venues creating experiential holiday attractions to drive winter foot traffic. It follows the pattern set by the broader regional growth strategy for Mountaineer Country tourism.
Residents and visitors can access the Mountain Glow West Virginia holiday event over 21 select dates starting in late November. Detailed event information and scheduling will be released by Mylan Park closer to the holiday season.
The takeaway
Riddle brings a decade of regional tourism experience to her new role as she oversees the expansion of holiday programming. Readers should watch for upcoming announcements regarding the specific dates and lighting displays at the park.
Further reading
Learn more about local attractions by visiting the Seasonal Events section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WV MetroNews.
Live Poll
Do regional holiday-themed events successfully improve tourism in your community during winter months?
