by Brian Major
Last updated: 1:55 PM ET, Fri November 21, 2025
The U.S. Virgin
Islands Department of Tourism confirmed Jennifer Matarangas-King as
Commissioner of Tourism, following her official approval by the 36th
Legislature of the Virgin Islands.
A St. Croix native, Matarangas-King is a respected communications and public affairs executive, who
brings more than 30 years of experience in strategic communications,
organizational leadership, and public service across both the private and
public sectors to her new role.
Her confirmation
marks a new chapter for the Department, said officials, as it continues to
build on the Territory’s record-breaking growth and reputation as a leading
Caribbean destination.
Her leadership
reflects a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and ensuring that the
benefits of tourism reach every corner of the Territory, they added.
Since assuming
the appointment from Governor Albert Bryan Jr., Matarangas-King has focused on
strengthening the Department’s internal structure, sustaining air and sea
industry relations, and deepening collaboration with local and regional
partners.
She engaged
directly with airline executives at the Routes Americas conference, 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, say officials, 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 “WOW Wednesday” initiative in partnership with the University of the
Virgin Islands. The program engages students in tourism career development and
promotes community involvement.
“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.”
Taking over for
former Commissioner Joseph Boschulte, Mataramgas-King will seek to build on his
success, as he ‘helped usher in a historic period of growth and visibility for
the Territory,’ said officials.
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 a new
“Vested Interest” campaign, designed to foster community accountability and
pride in tourism’s success.
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