Sarah Hughes

Sarah Hughes, a 2025 Inside Business 40 Under 40 honoree, is President & CEO at VisitNorfolk. With 13+ years in travel and tourism marketing and 7+ years shaping Norfolk’s destination strategy, she is passionate about using creativity and community engagement to showcase the city’s culture, history, and local businesses. A graduate of Old Dominion University, Sarah started her career in PR and advertising before joining VisitNorfolk, where she helps connect visitors with experiences that support the local economy. She is actively involved in regional and national tourism initiatives, including the Coastal Virginia Tourism Alliance, Destinations International, and the Hampton Roads Chamber. When she’s not promoting Norfolk, Sarah enjoys exploring the outdoors, traveling, and sharing adventures with family and friends.