The Nebraska Tourism Commission has selected Kathy McKillip to be the agency’s executive director.

McKillip has been director of the Nebraska Travel and Tourism Division since October 2011.

Nebraska Travel and Tourism, previously a division of the Department of Economic Development, became a stand-alone agency July 1. Legislation that authorized the change gave the commission the authority to hire an executive director.

Commissioner Jeff Boeka, of North Platte, says McKillip has proved “that she is aggressive in marketing the state, has moved forward with the strategic plan and has had a positive influence on tourism in the state.”

A 1 percent lodging tax provides funding for Nebraska Tourism to promote statewide attractions, attract visitors and enhance use of the state’s travel and tourism facilities.