board of directors

The Discover Newport Board of Directors is comprised of 18 members with representation from the nine municipalities within Newport and Bristol Counties and five specific industry appointments.

OFFICERS

Matt Gray - Chairman
Gray Matter Marketing
Portsmouth Appointee

Dr. Melissa Varao - Vice Chair
Salve Regina University
Member of the Public

Rebecca Bertrand - Treasurer
Newport Historical Society
City of Newport Appointee

Stephan Brigidi - Secretary
Bristol Workshops
Bristol Appointee

 

BOARD

Joanna Arrighie
Newport Marriott
Lodging Over 100 Rooms

Meredith Brower
Tiverton Farmers Market
Tiverton Appointee

Peter Connerton
Middletown Appointee

Keri Cronin
Dish, Owner
Warren Appointee

Patrick Fitzgerald
Sardella's Italian Restaurant
Restaurant Representative

Ann Hof
RI Marine Trades Association
Barrington Appointee

Charlie Holder
Newport City Councilor​
City of Newport Appointee

Kajsa Kempenaar
Kempenaar Real Estate
Middletown Appointee

Molly McGlew
Little Compton Appointee

John Nunes
Newport Vineyards
Attractions Representative

Kevin O'Leary
Preservation Society of Newport County
Middletown Appointee

Marla Romash
Our Table Jamestown
Jamestown Appointee

Andy Ross
Brenton Hotel
Lodging Under 100 Rooms

go-to guides

see all guides
Newport Vineyards

Date Ideas on The Coast

From cooking classes to helicopter tours and a water journey for two, these date ideas and experiences are perfect for a little (or a lot) of romancing.

Newport artillery

Celebrating America's 250th

From cobblestones to the coast, Newport and Bristol Counties are celebrating America’s 250th with stories worth telling.

Sunset Bridge Phone

Top Photo-worthy Spots

Stunning scenery is synonymous with Newport, here are 12 of the most photographed ones around.

Spring Blooms at Queen Anne Square

Spring on The Coast

Sunny cobblestone paths lined with fresh spring blossoms. Longer days and long-awaited sunshine—it's a feeling unlike any other. Classic.

Chandeliers at The Breakers

Newport Firsts

When you have 387 years of history under your belt, you’re bound to have some epic “firsts.” Some are more well-known than others.