Jennifer Matarangas-King Officially Confirmed to Lead U.S. Virgin Islands Tourism into Its Next Chapter
St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands (November 20, 2025)— The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism proudly announces the confirmation of Jennifer Matarangas-King as Commissioner of Tourism, following her official approval by the 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands. Her confirmation marks a new chapter for the Department as it continues to build on the Territory’s record-breaking growth and reputation as a leading Caribbean destination.
A native of St. Croix and a respected communications and public affairs executive, Commissioner Matarangas-King brings more than 30 years of experience in strategic communications, organizational leadership, and public service across both the private and public sectors. Her leadership reflects a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach every corner of the Territory.
Since assuming the appointment from Governor Albert Bryan Jr., Matarangas-King focused her first 90 days on strengthening the Department’s internal structure, sustaining air and sea industry relations, and deepening collaboration with both local and regional partners. She engaged directly with airline executives at Routes Americas, held strategic meetings with cruise line partners during the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Conference, and represented the Territory at the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s State of the Industry Conference. These efforts have reinforced the U.S. Virgin Islands’ leadership position in regional tourism and its commitment to sustainable growth and competitiveness.
Domestically, Commissioner Matarangas-King has prioritized workforce expansion and organizational efficiency, including hiring new staff in St. Croix, departmental restructuring in St. Thomas, and enhancing visitor experiences across the Territory’s arrival hubs. Under her leadership, the Department also launched a partnership with the University of the Virgin Islands through the “WOW Wednesday” initiative, which engages students in tourism career development and promotes community involvement.
Commissioner Matarangas-King stated that her first months in office have been focused on deliberate action, collaboration, and accountability — all aimed at elevating the visitor experience while building a stronger foundation for the Territory’s tourism industry. “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.”
Building on the successes of former Commissioner Joseph Boschulte, who helped usher in a historic period of growth and visibility for the Territory, Matarangas-King aims to expand the Department’s strategic initiatives across marketing, airlift, and cruise development. She has reaffirmed the Department’s participation in key global trade shows — including Routes, IPW, Seatrade, World Travel Market, and IMEX — and emphasized local engagement through the new “Vested Interest” campaign, designed to foster community accountability and pride in tourism’s success.
For more information about the U.S. Virgin Islands, please visit: https://www.visitusvi.com/
About the U.S. Virgin Islands
About 40 miles east of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands comprise a United States territory located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea. The three islands are St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas, where the capital of Charlotte Amalie is located. Perfect for leisure or business travel, the U.S. Virgin Islands features breathtaking, world-renowned beaches, an international marine industry, European architecture, and a burgeoning restaurant industry. No passports are required from U.S. citizens traveling from the U.S. mainland or Puerto Rico. Entry requirements for non-U.S. citizens are equivalent to entering the United States from any international country. Upon departure, a passport is required for non-U.S. citizens. For more information about the United States Virgin Islands, go to www.VisitUSVI.com, follow us on Instagram (@visitusvi) and Twitter (@usvitourism), and become a fan on Facebook (www.facebook.com/VisitUSVI).
Media Contacts:
Ayana Young
Development Counsellors International
[email protected]
Alani Henneman
U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism
[email protected]