Women's History: Kasey Muench

PARIS — Throughout history, women have played a vital role in shaping communities, often blending creativity, leadership, and service. In Northwest Tennessee, Kasey Muench exemplifies that spirit, combining her passion for design and tourism to promote and strengthen the region. As Executive Director of Northwest Tennessee Tourism, she now leads efforts to showcase the area’s attractions while ensuring its small-town charm remains at the heart of its appeal.

A Paris native, Muench studied at the University of Memphis, earning a Fine Arts degree with a concentration in graphic design. In her senior year, she was inducted into the Carson Circle, the university’s highest honor for student leaders, recognizing her outstanding contributions to campus life and leadership. After graduation, she returned home and started her career in the print and design industry, working at Abbott’s Print Shop.

“I worked at Abbott’s for 10 years, with a little break in between,” she said. “I was able to learn so much there. At a print shop, you get to work on all sorts of things.”

Her role allowed her to contribute to local projects, deepening her connection to the community. That experience led her to the Paris-Henry County Chamber of Commerce, where she became the community relations director. While there, she helped develop branding for the Tennessee River Jam, the Downtown Paris Association, and the Chamber of Commerce. “Even though I may not be with certain organizations anymore, my work is still out there being used,” she said.

Working at the Chamber gave her a deeper understanding of tourism’s impact. “Graphic design, marketing, all that goes into building up a community and branding what we have to offer,” she said. “I can literally look at Tennessee River Jam, The Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Paris Association—those are brands I created. They’re still in use, and it’s humbling to know that something I designed continues to represent the community.”

Her growing involvement in tourism led to her role at Northwest Tennessee Tourism in January 2023, where she oversees tourism initiatives for the nine counties that make up the region. Her work involves promoting attractions, managing events, and highlighting the area’s strengths.

“Northwest Tennessee is framed by Reelfoot Lake on one side and Kentucky Lake on the other, with rivers, streams, and outdoor spaces in between,” she said. “Our outdoors have always been a core of who we are, whether it’s hunting, fishing, boating, or just hiking and camping.”

She emphasized that people today are seeking a break from the fast pace of urban life. “Travelers want authentic experiences,” she said. “They want to get away from the hustle and bustle, and we have that here. Our small-town main streets, our historic buildings, our local diners and mom-and-pop restaurants—those are what make Northwest Tennessee special.”

Under her leadership, the organization has developed a new website, increased its membership, and published a visitor’s guide. One of her biggest initiatives has been launching the Cornerstone Tourism Awards, which will recognize individuals who contribute to the region’s tourism industry. The inaugural event, set for April 3 at The Dixie in Huntingdon, has already received nearly 200 nominations.

“We want to recognize the people who make visitors’ experiences special,” she said. “They’re the ones who make this region welcoming.”

Muench also established the Northwest Tennessee Legislative Breakfast, now in its third year, to connect local leaders with state representatives. This year’s event will take place on May 23 at Discovery Park of America.

In addition to these key events, Northwest Tennessee Tourism is working on new digital marketing campaigns and video projects to highlight the region’s attractions. “We’re creating digital ads and video content to showcase what we have to offer,” Muench said. “It’s important to give people a visual connection to our area before they visit.”

Beyond her professional work, Muench sees tourism as a personal passion. She lives in Paris with her husband, Ryan, and their two children, Aubrey and Grant. Her role has allowed her family to experience Northwest Tennessee in new ways.

“This job has allowed us to get to know the region as a family,” she said. “I take them with me whenever I can, and I hope my children grow up appreciating where we live.”

She spoke about the unique accommodations that make the region special. “We have places like Green Frog Farm Cabins, where they’ve restored 200-year-old cabins for people to stay in. It’s not your Hampton Inn—it’s rustic, off the beaten path, and a way to unplug.”

In addition to tourism attractions, Muench credits the people of Northwest Tennessee for making the region a welcoming destination. “You won’t find people like this anywhere else,” she said. “When visitors come here, they’re met with open arms. That’s something you don’t get everywhere, and we take it for granted sometimes.”

As Northwest Tennessee continues to grow, Muench remains dedicated to preserving its history while embracing new opportunities. Her work is part of a long tradition of women shaping the places they call home, ensuring that future generations can experience the same warmth, hospitality, and charm that make the region special.