James Tsismanakis serves as the CEO of Discover DeKalb, the DeKalb Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Sports DeKalb. With a master's degree in Global Hospitality Management from Georgia State University and ongoing Ph.D. studies in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management at Clemson University, James combines extensive academic knowledge with practical experience.As an Adjunct Professor at Georgia State University’s Cecil B. Day School of Hospitality, James teaches International Special Events Management and Venue Management. His expertise spans tourism, destination marketing, product development, sports management, and community relations. Notably, James has been recognized annually by the Atlanta Business Chronicle from 2011 to 2019 as one of Atlanta's 100 Leaders Shaping the Hospitality Industry.James is also the host of "DeKalb Talks Tourism," a podcast focusing on tourism trends and developments. He contributes to the Georgia State University Cecil B. Day School of Hospitality Administration Industry Advisory Board and has been instrumental in various educational and professional capacities.Residing in the Tucker/Northlake area of Atlanta with his wife Bethany and their three children, James is committed to enhancing DeKalb's tourism landscape and fostering community connections.