Springfield CVB earns accreditation

The Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau is one of two Missouri organizations to earn accreditation as a destination marketing organization from the Washington, D.C.-based Destination Marketing Accreditation Program.

The nonprofit CVB, which announced the designation in mid-June, serves as the primary marketing organization responsible for boosting travel and tourism in the Springfield metropolitan area.

"By applying for and receiving DMAP accreditation, the Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau has demonstrated a commitment to quality programs and services," said Christine Shimasaki, DMAP chairwoman, in a news release.

She noted that entities that achieve accreditation conform to guidelines in 16 areas ranging from governance to sales to innovation.

"We are committed to being good stewards of our funding sources and strive to serve Springfield and the surrounding area with the highest level of professionalism," CVB President Tracy Kimberlin said in the release.

The Kansas City Convention & Visitors Association is the only other Missouri entity with DMAP accreditation, and there are 90 accredited destination marketing organizations worldwide, the release said.