Our Team
Jim Browder – Executive Director
jim@crystalcoastnc.org
Jim's entire career has included most all aspects of the hospitality business, working with great people in hotels, resorts, attractions and destination management organizations. This is a “return” to the Crystal Coast for Jim, as his parents lived in Beaufort many years ago when stationed at Cherry Point Marine Corp Air Station. Jim is enjoying his free time at the beach, golfing, boating, fishing… all within minutes of the office!
Karen Gould – Deputy Executive Director
karen@crystalcoastnc.org
Karen helps guide strategy, marketing, and stakeholder relations at the Crystal Coast TDA, promoting the region as a leading travel destination. She began her career in digital production, marketing, and creative project management in 2004, working in NYC and overseas before returning to the Crystal Coast and joining the TDA in 2016. Since then, she has been instrumental in building the organization’s digital infrastructure, brand marketing, public relations, and industry relationships into a strong foundation for continued growth. She lives in Morehead City with her son Hayden and remains passionate about sharing the culture, natural beauty, and vitality of the coast.
Rita LeClair – Administration/TDA Grants
rita@crystalcoastnc.org
Rita has lived at the Crystal Coast most of her life and has been a CCTDA team member since 1996. She works in administration and with our grant and event funding programs but has also served in various other roles over the years.
Ellen Johnson – Senior Sales Manager
ellen@crystalcoastnc.org
Ellen joined The Crystal Coast in December 2019. She brings with her over 25 years of experience in the travel and tourism industry, including tour operations experience, having been Director of Tour Operations for two of New England’s premier tour operators and as the Director of Sales and Marketing with the Eastern Connecticut/Mystic area Tourism District. She is responsible for sales in all markets at the Crystal Coast Tourism Authority.
Sarah Gaskins – Director of Digital Operations
sarah@crystalcoastnc.org
Sarah blends her love for the coast with a talent for digital marketing management as the Director of Digital Operations at the Crystal Coast Tourism Development Authority. She helps shape how the world experiences the Crystal Coast online, leading digital strategy, enhancing technology initiatives, and building meaningful connections between visitors and the beauty of the region. With more than fifteen years of experience in digital marketing and communications, Sarah’s career has taken her through many facets of the field, from marketing automation and website management to strategic leadership. A graduate of the University of Mount Olive with a degree in business management, she believes in the power of technology to share authentic stories and strengthen the Crystal Coast’s vibrant tourism brand. When she’s not crafting digital campaigns, Sarah can often be found at the beach, exploring local waterways, discovering new coastal restaurants, or spending time with her family on the water.
Trish Slape – Director of Finance & Marketing Analytics
trish@crystalcoastnc.org
Trish joined The Crystal Coast TDA in August 2025. Although she’s not a native of Eastern North Carolina, she and her husband started their life here when they married in 1989 and never looked back! They have enjoyed raising two awesome young men here and making the Crystal Coast their home. Trish graduated from Liberty University with a master’s degree in accounting and has over 35 years of accounting experience that has allowed her to excel in many different industries. Her past experience in public accounting, Wildlife Rehabilitation Management, and Real Estate provides a strong foundation to be a great asset to the mission of The Crystal Coast TDA to manage the promotion and development of tourism in Carteret County
Steve Conklin - Information Services and Visitor Center Manager
steve@crystalcoastnc.org
Steve is a devoted father, loving husband, and seasoned outdoorsman who finds enjoyment in fishing, hunting, and golfing. Steve graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from ECU and has a decade of customer service experience under his belt. Through his experience, he has honed his skills in communication and problem-solving, ensuring satisfaction in every interaction. He strives to create cherished moments for those visiting our beautiful Crystal Coast!
Karla Mora - Visitor Center Manager
karla@crystalcoastnc.org
Karla is originally from Puerto Rico and holds a bachelor’s degree in Tourism from the University of Puerto Rico, Carolina Campus. With over 15 years of experience in the hotel industry, she is passionate about hospitality and helping others discover the beauty of the Crystal Coast. In her free time, Karla enjoys going to the beach and spending quality time with loved ones.
