Learn about DDC initiatives and updates on meeting in the nation’s capital.
DDC Announces Julissa Marenco Otero as New Board Chairperson
Destination DC (DDC) welcomed new board members and officers during its June 18 annual meeting hosted at the American Geophysical Union Conference Center, including new board chair Julissa Marenco, the Smithsonian Institution's Assistant Secretary for Communications and External Affairs and Chief Marketing Officer. DDC also recognized immediate past Board Chair Meade Atkeson for his leadership during a pivotal time for the tourism industry and thanked departing board members Clarence Anthony, Nancy Koide and Emeka Moneme for their dedicated service. Read the full release.
Elliott L. Ferguson, II Named to Events Industry Council Hall of Leaders
We’re proud to congratulate Elliott L. Ferguson II, president and CEO of DDC, on being named a 2026 inductee into the Events Industry Council Hall of Leaders. The honor recognizes his outstanding leadership and lasting contributions to the global business events industry, celebrating a career dedicated to advancing Washington, DC, and the meetings profession.
DDC’s Christen Miller Named to Destination International’s 30 Under 30 Cohort
We’re thrilled to celebrate Christen Miller, senior partnerships manager, on being named to Destination International’s 2026 30 Under 30 class of 2026, recognizing 30 emerging thought leaders from destinations around the world for their leadership, accomplishments and potential to shape the future of the industry. Christen’s recognition reflects her contributions to DC’s destination, her commitment to building partnerships and her work with students through NEXTDC, DDC’s affiliate partner nonprofit.
Washington, DC Recognized as a Top Conference City
DC was named one of U.S. News & World Report's Top 10 Best Conference Cities for 2026–2027, recognized for its walkable convention district, convenient transportation and abundance of free attractions. It also earned the highest sustainability score of any city, underscoring DC's continued commitment to responsible meetings.
We The People Video Series Highlights Chef Anthony Jones
Go behind the scenes with Chef Anthony Jones as he shares how his Chesapeake roots and Washington, DC influences shape the menu at Marcus DC. Produced in-house by DDC's creative team, this We The People video offers a fresh look at one of the city's standout culinary talents.
Member Updates
The Phillips Collection Announces Landmark $15 Million Gift to Advance Its Future
A historic $15 million gift from the Sherman Fairchild Foundation, the largest donation in the museum’s history, will support the Phillips’ 2025-29 strategic plan and a range of initiatives. These include public engagement opportunities and community programming, facilities, staffing, conservation efforts and digital infrastructure development.
Hosted by the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW), the 44th Annual RAMMYS Awards & Gala celebrated the best of the metropolitan area's restaurant and hospitality industry. Some of the night's biggest winners included:
- Restaurateur of the Year: Fernando González, 2fifty Texas BBQ
- Pastry Chef or Baker of the Year: Rose Nguyen, Rose Ave Bakery
- Service Program of the Year, sponsored by Ecolab: Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone
Crab
- Rising Culinary Star of the Year, sponsored by OpenTable: Martel Stone, Dōgon by Kwame Onwuachi
- Cocktail Program of the Year: Amazonia
- Casual Restaurant of the Year: Tsehay Ethiopian
- Favorite Gathering Place of the Year*: Old Ebbitt Grill
- Best Brunch of the Year*: Unconventional Diner
*Publicly voted category
DDC is Hiring
Interested in helping promote the nation’s capital to the world? Check out current openings at DDC.