WILDWOOD, N.J. — Morey’s Piers is pleased to announce that Denise Beckson, ICAE, Vice President and Chief Administrative & External Affairs Officer, has been elected Second Vice Chair of the IAAPA Global Board of Directors, placing her on the leadership track to become Chair of the global association for the attractions industry in 2029.
Beckson was elected during a meeting of the IAAPA Global Board of Directors in London, held in conjunction with IAAPA Expo Europe 2026. She will serve as Second Vice Chair in 2027, First Vice Chair in 2028, and Chair in 2029, representing a significant recognition of her more than 25 years of leadership and volunteer service to IAAPA and the attractions industry.
IAAPA is the leading international trade association representing the global attractions industry, with members in more than 100 countries spanning amusement and theme parks, water parks, resorts, family entertainment centers, zoos, aquariums, museums, manufacturers, suppliers, and other attractions.
“Denise has been an integral part of Morey’s Piers and the broader attractions industry for more than thirty years,” said Will Morey, President and CEO of Morey’s Piers. “Her ability to bring people together, navigate complex issues, and advocate for the long-term health of our industry has made a strong positive impact here in Wildwood, throughout New Jersey, and across the attractions community. To see Denise selected by her peers for a leadership role that will ultimately culminate with her serving as Chair of IAAPA is an extraordinary and well-earned honor.”
Beckson currently serves as Chair of the IAAPA North America Regional Advisory Board and has held leadership roles on the association’s Finance, Executive Finance, Governance, and Strategic Planning Committees. She presently chairs IAAPA’s Bylaws & Policies Review Task Force, previously served on the Global Board from 2015–2017, and is a recipient of IAAPA’s Meritorious Service Award.
As Vice President and Chief Administrative & External Affairs Officer at Morey’s Piers, Beckson has extensive experience spanning operations, governance, human resources, compliance, government relations, and external affairs. Her public affairs work has included engagement on legislation, regulation, workforce development, safety, tourism, and professional standards affecting the attractions and hospitality industries.
Her leadership extends throughout New Jersey and the broader business and attractions communities. Beckson has served as Chair of the New Jersey Restaurant & Hospitality Association and currently serves on the boards of the New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA) and the Coalition for American Diplomacy and Leadership CAPDL, in addition to leadership roles with other statewide business, tourism, and amusement industry organizations. She is also frequently called upon by national and industry media to provide perspective on issues affecting attractions, tourism, and seasonal businesses.
“I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to continue serving an organization and an industry that have meant so much to me throughout my career,” said Denise Beckson. “IAAPA has an extraordinary ability to bring together people from around the world who share a passion for creating memorable experiences for guests. I look forward to working alongside my fellow board members and IAAPA’s leadership to strengthen our industry, support our members, and help shape its future.”
IAAPA’s Global Board of Directors works in partnership with the association’s leadership team to establish and approve strategic priorities, oversee its annual business plan and finances, provide guidance on member products and services, and serve as ambassadors for the global attractions industry.
