Shanna Memmott | Photo by Beka Price Photography Back Next Tourism Director | Juab County in/shanna-memmott-420a4631b Teaching elementary school for 20 years was preparing Shanna Memmott for something. Few could have guessed that something was becoming the first full-time director of the Juab County Travel and Tourism Department.  Between her contagious enthusiasm for Juab County and her knack for transformative action, Memmott stands out as a dynamic and influential leader. She has revolutionized the county’s approach to tourism and community engagement, catalyzing unprecedented growth and environmental stewardship. In July 2021, after a tragic motorcycle accident claimed the life of the then-director, Memmott faced the daunting task of starting the tourism department from scratch due to a lack of access to resources. She embraced the challenge. “It’s been a journey. I’ve made lots of mistakes because I know nothing about marketing. I just know I love my community, I love where I live, and I want to make a difference,” Memmott explains. Under her leadership, the Juab County Travel and Tourism Department has flourished. She developed a comprehensive plan of action, created a travel board and secured competitive statewide grants. Her initiatives, such as the creation of a new Juab County Travel website and travel guide, have been instrumental in attracting tourists and supporting the local economy. One of Memmott’s notable successes so far is the “Pails for Nails” program at the Little Sahara National Recreation Area. Observing the environmental damage caused by burning pallets, Memmott initiated a campaign involving volunteers using magnets to collect nails from the sand. The program has been a tremendous success, collecting over 140 pounds of nails in its second year, and has earned recognition for its stewardship. Memmott’s impact goes beyond her role as she assists the Juab County EMS Department. “I’ve gone out with them a few times because they’re so short-staffed. Sometimes their director had to go alone, and she really can’t handle those situations alone,” Memmott explains. Of everything Memmott has accomplished, she is most proud of building the Mona City Veteran’s Memorial Monument. The project, inspired by her father’s military service, saw Memmott and her team raise $250,000 through community events.  “I truly believe in our country and the freedoms we have,” Memmott says. “It doesn’t matter what party. We’re all Americans, and we all need to work together. [We built the monument] not only to honor my dad but also the values that America has and the things that those soldiers fought for.” Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Juab County has experienced a monthly year-over-year increase in transient room and restaurant tax collection dollars, averaging between 10-12 percent. Whether she’s creating tourism guides, enhancing trails with her side-by-side or promoting environmental stewardship, Memmott’s work significantly alleviates taxpayer burden and enriches the community. Her advice to others mirrors her own philosophy: “It’s OK to reinvent yourself. When you make mistakes, admit it and start again. Life’s too short. Look for joy in everything you do.” To Main Page The post Shanna Memmott | Most Influential Women 2024 appeared first on Utah Business.