Eric Engelbarts Named President and CEO of Happy Valley Adventure Bureau

Eric Engelbarts has been named president and CEO of the Happy Valley Adventure Bureau in Pennsylvania.

Engelbarts has served as executive director of the Happy Valley Sports & Entertainment Alliance and was appointed HVAB Deputy Director in January 2026. He succeeds Fritz Smith, who resigned as president and CEO on May 14.

“Eric has been deeply involved in the organization’s day-to-day operations, financial planning, staff leadership and continued modernization efforts for the past several months” said HVAB Board Chair David Capperella. “The Board is confident Eric will provide steady leadership as we work together to position Happy Valley, PA for the next phase of tourism economic growth.”

Engelbarts joined the HVSEA as its first executive director in 2023. He previously served as executive director of the Michigan Sports Alliance, where he created and grew the State Games of Michigan. His prior experience also includes time with the Alabama Sports Festival, West Michigan Sports Commission and the National Congress of State Games.

Engelbarts will continue to oversee HVSEA as he assumes new responsibilities as HVAB president and CEO.

“I look forward to working closely with our partners across the tourism, hospitality, business, and community sectors,” Engelbarts said. “The HVAB has achieved record levels of visitation and visitor spending while building strong community relationships that enhance both the visitor experience and the quality of life for those who call Happy Valley home.

“As we look ahead, we are working strategically and thoughtfully with our stakeholders and community partners to prepare for a promising new era of leisure, business, and sports tourism growth.”