Parson appoints Springfield attorney to Tourism Commission

Photo provided by Law Offices of Dee Wampler and Joseph Passanise PC

Joseph Passanise last year helped bring the Stanley Cup to Springfield.

Gov. Mike Parson yesterday announced the appointment of Springfield attorney Joseph Passanise to the Missouri Tourism Commission.

Passanise, managing partner with the Law Offices of Dee Wampler and Joseph Passanise PC, joins a commission that meets quarterly on issues promoting Missouri tourism, especially those related to job creation and economic development, according to a news release.

“It’s a great honor to be chosen," Passanise said in the release.

Passanise, of Rogersville, is on the board that also includes state Rep. Jeffery Justus, R-Branson, according to Boards.Mo.gov. Nine members, including Passanise and Justus, are listed on the 10-member board. A spokesperson from the governor’s office said Passanise is filling a slot previously held by Eric Rhone, of St. Louis. Passanise is taking over a term that ends in January 2024.

In fiscal 2019, the Show-Me State had nearly 43 million visitors who generated an estimated $17.7 billion, according to Missouri Division of Tourism data. More than 304,000 Missourians are directly employed in the tourism industry.

Passanise last year led a group that brought the Stanley Cup to Springfield after the St. Louis Blues won the NHL title.