Lillian is originally from Kentucky and relocated to the Bay Area to attend Stanford University. After graduation, she spent a few years parenting and doing a lot volunteer work for non-profit and political organizations. However, when a college friend wanted to start a local magazine for visitors, Lillian offered to help and entered the hospitality workforce. She originated the role of Sales Director, which is a position Lillian still holds today.

The visitor guide was originally called “Discover Santa Clara Valley.”  But as the “Valley of the Heart’s Delight” became the “Capital of Silicon Valley” the name was changed to “Discover Silicon Valley.” Local hospitality professionals know this publication well and many rely on its monthly distribution to inform guests of the many events and attractions taking place in the area.

When “Discover Santa Clara Valley” first started there was no Tech Museum, Children’s Discovery Museum, Light Rail, or Santana Row. Neither the San Jose or Santa Clara Convention Centers had been built. In fact, Great America didn’t exist and most of our signature hotels had not even been proposed as concepts. The only Silicon Valley attraction in 1975 was Winchester Mystery House!

In 1995 Lillian joined forces with John Blem from the Hotel De Anza to start the Silicon Valley Concierge Association and has remained an active supporter ever since.  She is proud to serve as the current Education Chair on the SVCA board of directors.

Lillian has previously served on the boards of the Santa Clara Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association and was a charter member of the San Jose Convention & Visitors Bureau when it separated from the San Jose Chamber of Commerce.

The hospitality industry has had enormous impact on Santa Clara Valley and Lillian has played central role in this for over forty years. Lillian is proud to support the industry and promote Discover Silicon Valley which remains one of the most utilized print resources for visitors coming to Silicon Valley.