2025 Annual Tourism Luncheon

Join VisitNorman to celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week at 11:30 a.m. on May 8 at the Young Family Athletic Center.

This year, we’re looking ahead to the 2028 Summer Olympics — and Oklahoma’s moment on the world stage. With events like canoe slalom and softball coming to OKC, tourism will play a key role in telling that story. Join us as we connect, celebrate, and look toward the road to 2028.

Our panel of statewide sports and tourism leaders will explore what Olympic events mean not just for Oklahoma City, but for the entire region — including right here in Norman. From increased visibility to opportunities in sports tourism and beyond, we’ll discuss how our communities can prepare to welcome the world.

Luncheon Panelists:

Adam Wisniewski is Vice President of Sports Development at Visit OKC, where he leads efforts to attract premier sporting events to Oklahoma City and elevate its national profile. Originally from Texas, he holds degrees from Oklahoma State University and the University of South Florida. Adam has helped bring major events like the NCAA Women’s College World Series, OKC Memorial Marathon, and World Paddlesports Festival to the city. With experience at both the Arlington and Tampa Bay Sports Commissions, he brings a well-rounded perspective to the continued growth of OKC’s sports economy.

Craig Cress has served as CEO of USA Softball since 2013, overseeing the national office in Oklahoma City and guiding the sport’s growth across the country. A longtime player and elite-level umpire, Cress was inducted into the National Softball Hall of Fame in 2005. Prior to becoming CEO, he spent over a decade as Director of Membership, helping register over a million participants annually. He continues to support efforts to grow the sport internationally, including its return to the Olympic stage for LA28.

Mike Knopp is the founder of the RIVERSPORT Foundation and a nationally recognized leader in urban paddlesports development. Since leaving a legal career in 2003, Knopp has spearheaded the transformation of the Oklahoma River into a destination for elite competition, including national championships and Olympic trials. His leadership helped establish the Boathouse District and RIVERSPORT Rapids, now home to U.S. Olympic and Paralympic training. Knopp continues to drive momentum for Oklahoma City as the future host of canoe slalom and kayak cross during the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

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2025 Annual Tourism Luncheon

Luncheon Panelists:

Reservations closed on Friday, May 2, at 11:59 p.m.

Reserve a Table - $450

Reserve a Seat - $45