MARKSVILLE, LA – Joan Botts, VP of Marketing for Paragon Casino Resort, was elected as a board member of the Louisiana Travel Association (LTA) Board of Directors at its annual meeting. Botts has led the marketing efforts for Paragon Casino Resort for two years and calls Marksville home.
“It’s an honor to serve on the Louisiana Travel Association Board and contribute to advancing our state’s thriving tourism industry,” said Botts. “I look forward to collaborating with such an esteemed group of professionals to drive innovation and growth in our sector.”
In her role at Paragon Casino Resort, Botts directs marketing initiatives for one of Louisiana’s first land-based casinos overseeing brand marketing, advertising, direct marketing, promotions and events, entertainment, player development, public/community relations, social media, and strategic sponsorships.
“Joan’s exceptional leadership and deep expertise in marketing have been invaluable to Paragon Casino Resort,” said Marshall Ray Sampson, Sr., GM of Paragon Casino Resort. “Her appointment to the LTA Board reflects her dedication to enhancing tourism and her commitment to our industry’s growth.”
Botts brings decades of experience in the casino and resort industry, having previously led marketing teams in Durant, OK; Hot Springs, AR; and Shreveport/Bossier City, LA. Among her recent accomplishments is her participation in the 2024 Leadership CENLA program, serving as a 2023–2024 Board Member for the Marksville Chamber of Commerce, and spearheading numerous successful initiatives to promote regional tourism. In 2024, Paragon Casino Resort received the LTA’s ‘Accommodation of the Year’ award under Botts’ leadership.
“Our executive committee and board of directors play a crucial role in meeting the needs of our members and ensuring we achieve our goals of providing top-notch educational and marketing opportunities while advocating on behalf of the industry,” said Chris Landry, LTA President and CEO. “We are thrilled to begin another year with this exceptional group of industry leaders representing the entire state.”
