Mallory, whose experience includes executive director roles at the Downtown Walla Walla Foundation and Downtown Pullman Association, replaces outgoing CEO Katie Kadlub
(HOOD RIVER, Ore.) — Following an extensive search that drew interest from candidates across the country, Visit Hood River has hired Mallory Nash to serve as the organization’s new Executive Director. Mallory, who most recently served as executive director of the Downtown Walla Walla Foundation and Downtown Pullman Association, will step into her new role as the leader of both Visit Hood River and the Hood River County Chamber of Commerce beginning Dec. 1. The hiring follows the departure of outgoing CEO Katie Kadlub, who announced in June that she would be stepping down from the post she has held since 2021.
A self-described “place-based nonprofit executive,” Nash has more than a decade of leadership experience across economic development, tourism, Chamber programming, community engagement, and partnerships. In both Walla Walla and Pullman, Nash was heavily involved in the Washington Main Street program, supporting business vitality, destination strategy, and community development.
“It’s no surprise that the opportunity drew interest from candidates throughout the country given Hood River’s growing reputation, but Mallory’s experience across tourism, Chamber of Commerce, and community development made her a clear frontrunner for the position,” said Visit Hood River Board Chair James Pearrow. “Not to mention her deep knowledge of and genuine enthusiasm for the community, which were evident to the Search Committee, comprised of members of the Board of Directors, throughout the interview process. I’m confident we have found the right leader to represent the best interests of Hood River’s businesses, residents, and visitors.”
As Executive Director, Nash will be responsible for carrying forward and expanding on existing Visit Hood River programs and initiatives, and working with the Board of Directors to identify and pursue new strategic opportunities. Nash, who earned both her Bachelor of Science in Education, Recreation & Sport Management, and her Master of Education in Higher Education degrees from the University of Arkansas, is in the process of relocating from Walla Walla to Hood River ahead of her Dec. 1 start date.
About Visit Hood River:
Located at the crossroads of the spectacular Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and the magnificent Cascade Range and just an hour from Portland, Hood River offers outdoor recreation, dramatic vistas, historic landmarks, bountiful fruit, and fantastic food, wine, beer, and cider. With accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to historic B&Bs, Hood River is a four-season destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, weddings, corporate events, and more. Named America’s Best Small Mountain Town for 2026 by Travel + Leisure, Hood River also earned two 2026 Sunset Travel Awards in the What to Do: Food & Wine Experiences category (Hood River Fruit Loop) and the Where to Stay: Nearby Nature category (Lightwell Hotel). Hood River previously earned Sunset Travel Awards recognition as Best Adventure Town (2023 & 2015) and Nature Lovers Destination (2022), and was named a Top 10 Wine Destination by Wine Enthusiast (2017). Visit Hood River supports economic development, community development, and destination marketing for Hood River, Cascade Locks, Mosier, Odell, Parkdale, Pine Grove, and Mount Hood. For more information, call 800-366-3530 or visit www.visithoodriver.com.
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