Gloucester native Hunter LeClair has been named Gloucester’s new Tourism, Marketing and Events Manager for the county’s Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department.

In her role, LeClair will be involved in the general oversight of the marketing initiatives for the Visitor Center, Museum of History, and special events like the Daffodil Festival. The position aims to increase tourism in Gloucester by showcasing its many historic and natural resources, a county release stated. Enhancing the visitors’ experience to Gloucester through partnerships with local businesses is a major goal LeClair has in her new role.

LeClair was brought up through the Gloucester County Public Schools system and Rappahannock Community College, before obtaining a bachelor’s degree from Roanoke College. “It was important for me to return home and serve my community after graduation,” she said.

Since returning to Gloucester and prior to taking the position with the county, LeClair spent a decade working in coalition building, facilities management, and grant writing in the nonprofit sector. This includes being an active member of the Gloucester Resource Council, and serving as chair from 2020-2022, leading it through the pandemic. She also is an assistant coach for Page Middle School’s field hockey team. “I firmly believe that our community prospers through collaboration,” LeClair added.

For many years, LeClair said she worked with Gloucester County employees from various departments. “The passion, creativity and integrity that they bring to work each day is inspiring,” she said. Working for local government quickly became an aspiration so that she could use her skills to better the community. “When I saw that this position would allow me to show my creativity, while using some core components of my past experiences, it felt like a perfect fit,” she said.