Every Wednesday we will be highlighting one business woman and her professional story.

Today we are excited to introduce you to Cassandra Gaines! Cassandra Gaines is a recognized and celebrated tourism executive in the state of Oklahoma. Presently, she holds the positions of Muskogee Civic Center Director; Muskogee Multi-Cultural Tourism Coordinator; and Manager of The Roxy Theater, a historic and beloved Muskogee landmark. In 2008, Cassandra founded the National Soul Food-Cook Off, a local, regional and national competition to showcase the best soul food chefs in communities nationwide and provide a unique family, cultural and entertainment venue. The Cook-Off features good food, fun and an educational component regarding the history of soul food cooking and cooking tips from top chefs.

Cassandra has been actively involved in tourism in the Northeastern Oklahoma region since 1982. She is a pioneer in the tourism industry’s rapidly growing niche market of Heritage Tourism. While working for the Muscogee Department of Convention and Tourism in 1996, Cassandra wrote a proposal to the Oklahoma Historical Society for funding to help promote African American Heritage Tourism in Northeastern Oklahoma. After presenting and defending her proposal before Governor Frank Keating, Cassandra was awarded a grant of $50,000 for ten years and used these funds to establish the Muskogee Multi-Cultural Tourism Department, which she coordinates.

Through this department, Cassandra has coordinated the visits to Oklahoma of numerous cultural luminaries including former Essence Editorial Director, Susan L. Taylor; revered actor Danny Glover; athlete and businessman Magic Johnson; world renowned saxophonist Najee; The Trumpet Awards’ Xernona Clayton; and noted historian Dr. John Hope Franklin.

Cassandra is perhaps best known for the Oklahoma Historical Black Town Tour sponsored by the City of Muscogee, and speaking to groups throughout the United States on Heritage Tourism. She continues to study African American History and promote African American Tourism in the region and nationally. She is also known for developing and presenting outstanding cultural and educational events. Through her unique ability to build relationships, Cassandra’s fee waiver negotiations with attending celebrities has resulted in $150,000 in scholarships for over 50 deserving students to attend colleges in Northeastern Oklahoma.

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Listen to us highlight Cassandra on today’s podcast!