MIAMI BEACH – Karen Brown has been selected as the new executive director of the LGBT Visitor Center in Miami Beach. “We are thrilled to have someone of Karen’s extensive hospitality background take the helm of the LGBT Visitor Center,” said Steve Adkins, president of the Miami- Dade Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce Foundation, which is responsible for the LGBT Visitor Center’s operations. “I have worked with Karen on many initiatives over the past several years, and she knows the hospitality industry incredibly well. Her expertise will definitely help the LGBT Visitor Center grow and continue to be a must-visit destination for our tourists as well as a centerpiece for the local LGBT community.”

Brown is a native Miamian who has spent the last 19 years working in South Florida’s hospitality industry.

Previously, she was the general manager at The Angler’s Resort in South Beach. Her professional experience also includes serving as the vice president of sales and marketing for Boutique Hospitality Management and positions with Island Outpost, The Double Tree, and Interstate Hotels.

The LGBT Visitor Center, the only visitor center of its kind in the United States supported by a gay and lesbian chamber, will celebrate its second anniversary next month.

It is located at 1130 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, in the lobby of Old City Hall.

“Managing the LGBT Visitor Center allows me the opportunity to create a unique travel experience and a positive place where all are welcome,” said Brown, who also served as co-emcee for the Miami Beach Gay Pride Parade for the past four years. “We are working diligently to build programs and resources to welcome the LGBT traveler by introducing them to the myriad of people, businesses and attractions our city has to offer.”