Welcome America, Inc., the nonprofit organization behind some of Philadelphia’s largest and the nation’s most celebrated civic events and experiences, announced that Nicole Cashman, founder and CEO of Cashman & Associates, has been named Interim Chief Executive Officer. Her appointment follows the conclusion of Michael DelBene’s tenure as President and CEO after the 2026 Wawa Welcome America festival in July.
For the past 25 years, Cashman & Associates has worked closely with Welcome America, with Cashman playing an instrumental role in shaping the organization’s events, publicity, strategic communications and executive advisory efforts through some of its most significant milestones. That longstanding partnership has given her an unparalleled understanding of the organization, its mission and its many stakeholders. “Nicole has spent her career helping tell Philadelphia’s story and bringing people together around the experiences that make our city extraordinary,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, who chairs the Welcome America Inc. Board of Directors.
“Nicole understands the important role Welcome America plays in our city, creating moments that bring together our communities, welcome visitors and showcase Philadelphia on a national and international stage. We look forward to working with Nicole as the organization continues its important work throughout the year.”
“Nicole has been a trusted partner to Welcome America and has played an important role in the organization’s growth and evolution,” said Judge Daniel Anders, Vice Chair of the Welcome America, Inc. Board of Directors. “She brings a combination of institutional knowledge, executive leadership and deep experience across tourism, major events and marketing that makes her exceptionally well suited to lead Welcome America during this important transition. The Board has tremendous confidence in Nicole’s ability to provide strong, steady leadership as we look toward the future.”
Cashman is the founder and CEO of Cashman & Associates, the award-winning strategic marketing and communications agency she founded in Philadelphia in 2001. She has spent more than three decades advising businesses, organizations and civic leaders on communications, brand strategy, major events and high-profile initiatives. Cashman has also previously served in interim leadership roles of both the Atlantic City Alliance and Visit Philadelphia, successfully stepping in during pivotal periods for two of the region’s leading destination marketing organizations.
“I have had the privilege of working alongside Welcome America for 25 years and have seen firsthand the extraordinary impact this organization has on Philadelphia and the region,” said Nicole Cashman, Interim Chief Executive Officer of Welcome America, Inc. “I am honored to step into this role and work with the existing staff and our many partners to continue advancing Welcome America’s mission and building on the strong foundation that has been established. Welcome America means a great deal to me, and I’m excited to help guide it through this next chapter as we reimagine the organization for 2027 and beyond.”
Image courtesy of Welcome America, Inc.
