Jennifer Matarangas-King New Tourism Commissioner

St. Croix Times Staff

 USVI - The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism welcomes the nomination of Jennifer Matarangas-King to be the next Commissioner of Tourism. Governor Albert Bryan Jr. announced the nomination, which should have no problem passing through the Legislature, at a recent Government House Press Briefing. 

Ms. Materangas-King is a well-respected communication and public affairs executive who holds excellent qualifications to continue building on the Department’s unprecedented momentum and growth over the past six years under the leadership of Joseph Boschulte. 

A native of St. Croix and a respected voice in the Virgin Islands community, Ms. Matarangas-King brings more than 30 years of experience in strategic communications, public affairs, and organizational leadership across the public and private sectors. Her deep-rooted understanding of the Territory’s culture and strong service record align with the Department’s continued focus on responsible growth, innovation, and global brand expansion. 

“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.”

During Commissioner Boschulte’s tenure, the Department delivered one of the most transformative eras in its history, leading the Caribbean in Average Daily Rate (ADR), welcoming record-breaking air and cruise arrivals, reimagining signature festivals, launching award-winning marketing campaigns, and forging ground-breaking partnerships across sports, entertainment, and global travel markets.The Virgin Islands emerged as a premier destination during a time of global tourism disruption, with the Department’s efforts driving consistent economic recovery, increased visitor spend, and all-time high collections into the Tourism Advertising and Revolving Fund (TARF).

“I am honored and humbled to be considered for this role,” said Ms. 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.”

Ms. 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. For over two decades, she played an integral leadership role at Viya and its predecessor companies, spearheading public relations, corporate communications, customer experience, and strategic planning initiatives. Through her work in telecommunications, she played a pivotal role in ensuring connectivity for visitors to the Territory and has served as a Board member on the St. Croix Hotel Association.

Reportedly, Mr. Boschulte is leaving the Department of Tourism to take over the CEO position at the West Indian Company (WICO). He will stay on for a brief period of time to provide support to Ms. Matarangas-King during the transition to ensure operational continuity and alignment of strategic priorities.