Visit Quad Cities’ Leadership Included in QCBJ’s Most Influential 

December 08, 2025

Visit Quad Cities’ Leadership Included in QCBJ’s Most Influential 
Quad Cities, IL/IA (December 8, 2025) – Visit Quad Cities, the region’s official destination marketing organization (DMO), is proud to celebrate the recognition of several members of its leadership and advisory network in the Quad Cities Regional Business Journal’s Top 25 Most Influential list for 2025. 
Honorees include:
•    Ben Leischner, Board Member
•    Kai Swanson, Board Member
•    Andrew Lehman, Sports QC Advisory Group Member
•    Ryan Hintze, Sports QC Advisory Group Member
Visit Quad Cities’ President and CEO, Dave Herrell, was recognized as the 2025 Most Influential.

“These recognitions reflect the tremendous leadership, dedication, and vision that these individuals bring to our community and to Visit Quad Cities,” said Jennifer Sautter, Chair of the Visit Quad Cities Board of Directors. “Each honoree plays a meaningful role in strengthening our region, advancing our visitor economy, and championing what makes the Quad Cities such a special place. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and grateful for the impact they make every day.”
The Quad Cities Business Journal hosted the 2025 Winner's Circle Celebration to recognize the honorees from their 2025 programs, including Best of the Region, Fastest Growing, Women of Influence, Most Influential, and Forty Under 40.
Held on December 3rd at the Figge Art Museum in Downtown Davenport, the evening provided recognition, gratitude, and connection. The event served as a meaningful reminder of the people whose vision and dedication continue to lift up the Quad Cities.

Media Contact
Kayla Morath, CTA
Content, PR & Communications Coordinator
Visit Quad Cities
[email protected] | Direct: 309.736.6827 | Cell: 309.628.9222
About Visit Quad Cities
Founded in 1990, Visit Quad Cities is the region's official destination marketing organization (DMO). Visit Quad Cities is a private 501(c)(6) non-profit engine that drives economic opportunity through tourism, builds our authentic brand, tells and sells the Quad Cities story, and enhances Quad Citizens’ quality of life and place.
About Quad Cities Regional Business Journal
Founded in 2021, the Quad Cities Regional Business Journal is an award-winning publication led by veteran Quad Cities journalists. The QCBJ publishes bi-weekly print editions and delivers news twice a day through its e-newsletter, with the mission to inform, engage, and connect readers through reporting on business, economic development, and the people who shape the region.
(Photo courtesy of Quad Cities Regional Business Journal)