The NYU Preston Robert Tisch Center for Hospitality, Tourism and Sports Management has named Cristyne Nicholas, President & CEO of NYC & Company, as the 2006 Legend of the Industry. Dr. Lalia Rach, associate dean of the NYU Preston Robert Tisch Center, cited Nicholas' ability to utilize the diversity of the city as the fundamental positioning statement. Nicholas was appointed President and CEO of NYC & Company in 1999, formerly the New York Convention & Vistors Bureau. NYC & Company, the city's official tourism marketing organization, is a private membership based non-profit dedicated to building the city's economy and positive image through tourism and convention development, major events and the marketing of the city on a worldwide basis. Since 1999, visitor volume to NYC has grown from 36.4 million to 42.6 million in 2005, a 17% increase. During that same period, NYC & Company membership has grown a record 62% with a current roster of more than 1,900 businesses.
