Shortt named Public Relations/Media Specialist for County Tourism

Nita Johnson, The Sentinel Echo, London, Ky.
·2 min read

May 23—A familiar face has returned to London, but this time to promote tourism in the area.

Travis Shortt was selected as the Public Relations and Media Specialist for the London Laurel County Tourist Commission and assumed his new position on Monday, May 13.

A native of Virginia, Shortt first made his impact on the Laurel community as Manager of Forcht Broadcasting in 2019. He promoted the digital advertising and public involvement of WWEL, WFTG and WANV radio stations throughout the community, as well as being involved in numerous civic organizations. He later served as Marketing Director for OTG Ventures and served on the London Laurel Tourist Commission board of directors representing that organization.

Shortt has long referred to London as "home," and his return to promote the area for tourism events coincides with his recent graduation from East Tennessee State University with a Masters degree in Brand and Media Strategy — which fall in line with his new position.

"I'm excited to be part of this amazing team to help promote Laurel County and London. There's a strong foundation of successful tourism events and I'm looking forward to adding more to the roster that will bring people to this amazing area," he said.

Shortt's business associations also align with his qualifications. He is Chief Marking Officer with Vectors Partners LLC where he oversees all media coverage, branding and image development. He currently serves as executive director for David's Legacy LLC.

He also served as Director of Operations and Sales for WDOC, Inc./WQHY radio for eight counties in Kentucky and parts of Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia and Tennessee.

During his two-year stint at Forcht Broadcasting, Shortt was also involved with the London Rotary Club, London Downtown and Red Bud Ride — all of which involved being on the board of directors. He also served as a Chamber Ambassador with the London Laurel County Chamber of Commerce, Program Advisory Committee for Laurel County School Center for Innovation, on the World Chicken Festival Executive Board, and has been on the board of The Appalachian Arts and Entertainment Awards, which he has emceed for the past several years.

Shortt said he had an excellent path to follow with the work of former co-executive director of the tourist commission, Kelly Burton.

"Kelly laid the groundwork for many events that I hope to continue and bring more events to the area," Shortt added.