Meet The Team

The CEO & President provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for Port Aransas, The Island Life. This position oversees the organization's overall operations, long-term goals, and initiatives that promote tourism, strengthen the local economy, and support the Port Aransas business community. Working closely with the Board of Directors, community leaders, and industry partners, the CEO & President fosters meaningful relationships, advocates for local businesses, and drives innovative strategies that enhance Port Aransas as a premier coastal destination while ensuring the continued growth and success of the organization and the community it serves.

The Director of Finance & Administration is safeguarding public funds, powering strategic growth, and keeping day-to-day operations ship-shape. Jackie oversees accounting, budgeting, human resources, and office infrastructure—ensuring that every visitor tax dollar and membership fee is transformed into unforgettable Port A experiences.

Shelley is the deal-maker who turns Port A’s sun, surf, and “Fishing Capital of Texas” bragging rights into booked room nights, event contracts, and sponsorship revenue. Reporting to the President/CEO, she builds and executes a year-round sales strategy that fills hotel blocks, docks, meeting rooms, and festival grounds—fueling the island economy and elevating Port Aransas.

Melinda steers the vision, voice, and velocity of the Port Aransas brand. From strategic planning to real-time social engagement, this senior leader architects fully integrated campaigns—web, social, print, video, PR, and paid media—that elevate the town’s 18 miles of sun-washed shoreline and year-round events to travelers around the world.

Joan serves as the Community Impact & Sustainability Manager, leading initiatives that foster environmental stewardship, community engagement, and sustainable tourism in Port Aransas.

This position focuses on strategic planning, organizational growth, and developing innovative initiatives that strengthen the local economy, support community partnerships, and enhance Port Aransas as a premier coastal destination. Working closely with leadership and stakeholders, the Executive Strategist helps turn big-picture goals into actionable strategies that drive meaningful results for the organization and the community.

Kyra is Port A’s in-house storyteller—always on the lookout for the next wave, sunset, or smiling visitor that captures Texas’ Favorite Island in a single frame. Reporting to the Marketing & Communications Director, this hands-on creative collects, organizes, and repurposes photos, videos, and copy that fuel every campaign, channel, and press pitch.

Sierra supports the organization by planning, coordinating, and executing marketing campaigns, promotions, and communications that increase awareness, engagement, and visitation.

This position oversees administrative functions, supports internal teams, and helps maintain an organized and welcoming office environment. Serving as a key point of contact for staff, partners, and visitors, the Office Manager helps streamline processes, coordinate office activities, and provide the operational support needed to keep the organization running effectively while contributing to its overall mission and success.

Part hospitality hero, part event impresario, the Visitor Experience & Program Coordinator turns everyday island moments into signature Port A memories. From greeting guests with a “welcome y’all” smile to orchestrating events, programs, and family-friendly happenings, this role keeps our Welcome Center buzzing and our calendar brimming with Gulf-coast fun.

Office Assistant helps ensure an efficient, organized, and welcoming work environment while contributing to the overall success of the organization and its mission to support the Port Aransas community.

Office Assistant helps ensure an efficient, organized, and welcoming work environment while contributing to the overall success of the organization and its mission to support the Port Aransas community.