Explore St. Louis
Barry Draper has a diverse range of work experience in the hospitality and tourism industry. From 2019 to present, they have served as the Director of Partnership at Explore St. Louis. Prior to that, they were the Partnership Manager at DuPage Convention & Visitors Bureau from 2016 to 2019, where they were responsible for various membership functions and sales initiatives. Barry has also held positions such as Director of Sales at Courtyard by Marriott and Director of Sales and Marketing at Best Western® Hotels & Resorts. Additionally, they have experience as a Branch Manager at PRP Wine International and an Inside Sales and Wedding Coordinator at Hotels at Grand Prairie. Barry's early career involved roles as a Student Admissions Representative and Residential Advisor at Bradley University.
Barry Draper completed their education history with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Music & Public Relations from Bradley University, where they studied from 2006 to 2010. Prior to that, they obtained their High School Diploma from Marian Catholic High School from 2002 to 2006. In addition to their formal education, Barry also holds a CVENT Professional Certification from Cvent, which they obtained in June 2017.
Explore St. Louis
St. Lou is…Surprising. Expect the unexpected – especially if you haven’t visited in awhile. From our newly rejuvenated downtown to an ever-expanding menu of offbeat attractions and dining options, you’ll be surprised at what St. Louis has to offer. Whether your meeting is large, small or somewhere in between, the America's Center convention complex offers a unique combination of flexible facilities and services for any event. In addition to 502,000-square feet of exhibit space, first-class catering options, and easy access, St. Louis offers one stop shopping for meeting planners. Our professional staff includes the marketing, sales, services and convention center staff all under one roof. Literally. The St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission (dba Explore St. Louis) manages and operates the America's Center® convention complex, which includes six contiguous exhibit halls, 80 meeting rooms, the 67,000-seat Dome at America's Center, 1,400-seat Ferrara Theatre, 28,000 square-foot ballroom and the St. Louis Executive Conference Center. America's Center also employs a full-time labor relations manager who works to establish a mutually beneficial relationship between the center's clients and the local trade unions. One building + one staff = one great meeting. While we all know great meetings don't just “happen” St. Louis can make your next great meeting happen a lot easier. From our convention center and unique meeting venues to the abundance of luxurious and affordable hotel rooms, the Gateway City has whatever you need to take your next meeting to the next level.