The Hattiesburg Tourism Commission is pleased to announce Lydia Coffey Pierce as its new Director of Destination Sales and Services. Pierce brings extensive experience in hospitality, higher education and event management, along with strong knowledge of the Hattiesburg market.
August 17, 2026 (Hattiesburg, Miss.) – The Hattiesburg Tourism Commission is pleased to announce Lydia Coffey Pierce as its new Director of Destination Sales and Services. Pierce brings extensive experience in hospitality, higher education and event management, along with strong knowledge of the Hattiesburg market.
“We are experiencing historic tourism growth in Hattiesburg, and having the right people in place to build on that momentum is key,” said Visit Hattiesburg CEO Marlo Dorsey. “Lydia understands this community, she knows how to build relationships, and she brings the experience to help us generate new business, strengthen partnerships and create lasting economic impact. We are excited to have her join our team.”
In her new role, Pierce will focus on attracting meetings, conferences and other group business to Hattiesburg, supporting clients throughout the planning process and working with tourism partners to strengthen the overall visitor experience.
Pierce previously managed guest services at a Hattiesburg hotel and served as Sales and Services Coordinator for the Hattiesburg Convention Commission before spending the last decade at Southern Miss. There, she coordinated conferences, camps and large-group events before moving into an executive support role in Student Affairs and Enrollment Management.
“I am ecstatic to join the VisitHATTIESBURG team and continue the work of positioning Hattiesburg as a premier destination in the Gulf South,” said Pierce. “I look forward to building strong partnerships across our community, showcasing all that Hattiesburg has to offer, and bringing new conferences, events, and visitors to our beloved city.”
Pierce earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Mississippi University for Women and a master’s degree in human capital development from The University of Southern Mississippi. She has also been actively involved in the Hattiesburg community, including serving on the Mississippi Miss Hospitality advisory board and organizing the annual Eaglepalooza music festival.
For more information about VisitHattiesburg and its team, visit www.visithburg.org.
