Katie Kramer became the director of visitor experience for Discover Ames in April 2023. Katie is the former director of sports and competitions for the Iowa Sports Foundation. She was integral in bringing the national State Games of America to Ames in 2022, and she annually coordinated the Summer Iowa Games, among other events. Katie is also a former recreation coordinator for City of Ames Parks and Recreation. She holds a bachelor of arts in fitness development from Coe College.
Katie was born and raised in Ames, and she grew up playing sports and camping with her family (mom, dad, and a sister who’s 18 months older than she is). Today, her parents are retired but still enjoy the outdoors (often in Florida), and Katie participates on a slow-pitch softball league. She loves to hang out with her nephews, Owen and Cooper, and watch them play sports. She also stays busy with her boyfriend, Chris, and their two dogs, Remi and Roush.
“I have a passion for Ames, and I’m excited to play an active role in enhancing the quality of life for Ames residents and providing clients with the best Ames experience,” Katie said.
Veronica is originally from Libertyville, a northern suburb of Chicago. “I moved to Iowa because my grandfather attended Iowa State University and pushed me to visit. I ended up falling love with the atmosphere, environment, and the people. I love trying new adventures, food, places, and meeting new people/making friends and I was able to see myself doing all that in Ames and Iowa State!”
Prior to joining the Discover Ames team, Veronica worked with the Ames Golf and Country Club and the Iowa Events Center. She says she saw the event services coordinator position as a great opportunity to be in the event industry while exploring other areas of marketing and sales. “I have always loved being involved with events, and this position provides the opportunity to improve and expand my knowledge on creating a successful event experience.”
Veronica’s hidden talent is playing the saxophone. She enjoys the outdoors: hiking, biking, kayaking, beach volleyball, and lacrosse. “Ever since Covid, I got into baking and cooking,” she says. “I have always enjoyed photography and sewing, and I do enjoy my lazy days binge watching movies and TV series!”
Matt Beatty became the new director of business development for Discover Ames in May 2023. Matt had served as chief operating officer for the Iowa Sports Foundation since 2019. In that role, he managed people, programs, and events across all of Iowa’s 99 counties. He was previously the foundation’s director of Iowa Corporate Games and Iowa Senior Games, and he is a former program supervisor for the Muscatine, Iowa, Parks and Recreation Department. He earned a bachelor’s degree in sports management from Iowa State University.
Matt says he’s excited about his new role at Discover Ames. “From the moment I took my first college visit, Ames has been my second home. I’m excited to work for the community and share our story of why Ames is a great destination to visit, work, and play.”
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