US Virgin Islands Nominates Jennifer Matarangas-King as Next Commissioner of Tourism

The U.S. Virgin Islands is poised to enter a new era of tourism leadership with the nomination of longtime communications and public affairs executive Jennifer Matarangas-King as the territory’s next Commissioner of Tourism.

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. announced the nomination during a Government House briefing this week, citing Matarangas-King’s strategic acumen, deep community ties, and commitment to service as key assets in continuing the Department’s recent growth trajectory.

A native of St. Croix, Matarangas-King brings more than 30 years of experience in public affairs, strategic communications, and organizational leadership across both the public and private sectors. Her career includes roles in government, telecommunications, and community engagement, most recently serving in a senior leadership role at Viya, where she oversaw corporate communications, customer experience, and strategic planning.

“Tourism is more than our economy. It is how we tell our story to the world and create opportunity for the people of the Virgin Islands,” said Governor Bryan. “Jennifer understands that. She is a strategic thinker, a skilled communicator, and a proud Virgin Islander with a deep commitment to service. I am confident that she will lead the Department of Tourism with vision and distinction.”

The announcement follows a transformative period under outgoing Commissioner Joseph Boschulte, whose tenure saw the U.S. Virgin Islands emerge as one of the Caribbean’s top-performing destinations. Under Boschulte’s leadership, the Department of Tourism led the region in Average Daily Rate (ADR), welcomed record-breaking air and cruise arrivals, and launched high-impact marketing campaigns that helped position the USVI as a global destination during a time of industry-wide disruption.

Boschulte was honored in the Caribbean Travel Awards as Caribbean Tourism Executive of the Year in 2023.

Tourism-driven gains during this period also included historic revenue growth and record collections into the Tourism Advertising and Revolving Fund, along with expanded partnerships across entertainment, sports, and global travel sectors.

“I am honored and humbled to be considered for this role,” said Matarangas-King. “Tourism is one of the most powerful tools we have to shape the future of these Virgin Islands. It drives investment, fuels entrepreneurship, and celebrates our identity. I look forward to working alongside our tourism stakeholders and the incredible team at the Department to elevate our product, empower our people, and expand our reach as a premier Caribbean destination.”

Matarangas-King began her public service career as press secretary to Governor Roy Schneider and later served as public relations director for Senator Vargrave Richards. She has also served on the board of the St. Croix Hotel Association and played a critical role in expanding visitor connectivity and service standards during her time in the telecommunications industry.

The Department of Tourism extended its gratitude to Commissioner Boschulte for his years of leadership. He will remain involved during the transition period, providing guidance and support as Matarangas-King steps into the role