The US Virgin Islands Has a New Tourism Commissioner

The US Virgin Islands Department of Tourism has entered a new chapter with the formal confirmation of Jennifer Matarangas-King as Commissioner of Tourism, following her approval by the 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands.

A native of St. Croix and a veteran public affairs and communications executive, Matarangas-King brings more than three decades of experience across the private and public sectors. Her background in organizational strategy and community engagement reflects what government officials describe as a steady, collaborative approach to sustaining the Territory’s historic tourism growth.

Since her appointment by Governor Albert Bryan Jr., Matarangas-King’s first 90 days have focused on strengthening the Department’s internal operations and deepening its relationships with air and sea partners. 

She met with airline executives during Routes Americas, held strategic discussions with cruise line leaders at the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association Conference and represented the Territory at the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s State of the Industry Conference. The engagements have reinforced the USVI’s position as one of the region’s most competitive destinations, particularly as airlift and cruise schedules continue to expand.

Locally, the Commissioner has prioritized workforce development and departmental efficiency. The Department has added new staff in St. Croix, reorganized teams in St. Thomas and taken steps to enhance the visitor experience across the Territory’s airports, seaports and arrival hubs. 

Her tenure has also introduced a partnership with the University of the Virgin Islands through the “WOW Wednesday” initiative, which connects students with tourism career pathways and supports community involvement.

Matarangas-King said her early months in office have been driven by deliberate planning and a focus on accountability. “Our mission is to strengthen partnerships, invest in people, and set a clear path forward,” she said. “Together, we will continue to showcase the authenticity, excellence and opportunity that define our islands.”

She succeeds former Commissioner Joseph Boschulte, who helped lead the USVI to record-breaking visitation and expanded regional visibility for the USVI. That included an award as Caribbean Tourism Executive of the Year in the Caribbean Travel Awards. 

Building on that foundation, Matarangas-King plans to advance the Department’s marketing, airlift and cruise strategies while maintaining a strong presence at major global trade shows, including Routes, IPW, Seatrade, World Travel Market and IMEX. She also emphasized the importance of local engagement, highlighted by the new “Vested Interest” campaign, which encourages community participation in the Territory’s continued tourism success.