HOPKINSVILLE, KY – The James E. Bruce Convention Center, known locally as “The Bruce,” has entered into a management agreement with VenuWorks, the nation’s only 100% employee-owned venue management company. Effective January 2, 2027, the partnership will bring national resources and expertise to the facility while preserving the local relationships and experienced staff who have contributed to its success.
The Bruce has been locally managed since opening on August 3, 2003, under a Board of Directors appointed by the Mayor. Todd Morris, Chairman, and Darrell Gustafson, Vice Chairman and Finance Director, have provided leadership since the facility’s early years. Both emphasized that The Bruce’s success reflects the collective commitment and support of the entire Board, along with the dedication of its employees and community partners.
“The Bruce has been an important part of Hopkinsville and the surrounding region for more than 23 years,” said Todd Morris, Chairman of the Board. “VenuWorks brings national venue-management experience that will help us build on the strong foundation we have established while creating new opportunities for growth.”
Under the agreement, VenuWorks will manage the facility through VenuWorks of Hopkinsville, LLC. All current employees will have the opportunity to transfer to the new operating entity, maintaining continuity among the experienced staff and preserving their knowledge of the facility, its clients and the community.
“Maintaining continuity is important to us,” said Darrell Gustafson, Vice Chairman and Finance Director. “Our employees have played a major role in The Bruce’s success and providing them the opportunity to continue with VenuWorks of Hopkinsville is an important part of this transition.”
VenuWorks will oversee day-to-day operations, supported by its national team of specialists in programming, marketing, sales, food and beverage, finance and facility operations. The local Board will retain oversight and accountability, with operational results reported to the Board monthly.
The Board believes the partnership will strengthen The Bruce as a regional destination for conventions, tournaments, meetings, trade shows and other events, while expanding opportunities to serve Hopkinsville and the surrounding region.
“The Bruce has a strong foundation built by people who care deeply about this facility and the community it serves,” said Michael Silva, President and Chief Operating Officer of VenuWorks. “We look forward to working alongside the Board and local team to bring more events, welcome more visitors and build new opportunities for Hopkinsville. Our approach combines national resources with local accountability, keeping the community’s priorities at the center of our work.”
The Board and VenuWorks will work together in the coming months to prepare for the January 1, 2027, transition, including employee opportunities, operational planning and other implementation details.
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