Young Professionals Advisory Board
The Young Professionals Advisory Board is a select cohort of emerging leaders dedicated to shaping the future of Greater Palm Springs.
This one-year commitment offers a unique opportunity to provide strategic guidance to the TEAM GPS Foundation. Members are asked to actively participate in our mission by attending two foundation events and two virtual board meetings annually, and by collaborating with fellow board members to organize at least one signature fundraising or awareness initiative.
We are looking for passionate, driven individuals ready to bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to our team. By joining us, you will gain invaluable board experience, expand your professional network, and hone your leadership skills—all while making a tangible, lasting impact on our local community.
Melissa Bernal: Co-Chair
Born and raised in the Coachella Valley to parents who built their careers in the hospitality industry, Melissa developed a deep appreciation for service, community, and connection. Originally a nursing student, she discovered a true passion for people and community impact, leading her to pursue a career in hospitality. As a Destination Experience Coordinator at Visit Greater Palm Springs, Melissa is dedicated to showcasing the region’s beauty, diversity, and inclusivity while ensuring that tourism benefits everyone in the community.
In 2025, she was honored as a 30 Under 30 candidate for Destinations International’s prestigious program, recognizing her leadership and commitment to advancing the destination marketing industry. Melissa recently received a Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management from CSU East Bay. She remains devoted to mentoring emerging professionals and supporting the next generation in the Coachella Valley who are pursuing careers in the hospitality industry, contributing to the continued growth and success of Greater Palm Springs.
Emily Alvarez-Zurita: Co-Chair
Born and raised in Greater Palm Springs, Emily is committed to advancing the growth and innovation of the region’s hospitality and tourism industry.
She earned a B.A. in Business Management from CSUSB Palm Desert Campus, graduating Magna Cum Laude with department honors. During her studies, she served as a Student Assistant for Basic Needs & Student Support, an Academic Coach for ASUA, and an Orientation Leader. She also contributed to the Palm Springs International Film Festival as a local jury member and film screener.
Emily received a Master’s Degree in Hospitality and Tourism at the University of Southern California (USC) in May 2026 and serves as a Convention Sales Coordinator for Visit Greater Palm Springs. Emily aspires to explore areas of the industry that create a lasting impact on travelers and her community, particularly in hospitality finance and entertainment management.
Estevan Aguirre: Vice Chair
Estevan Aguirre is a graduate of CSU San Bernardino with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, IT & Technology and served as an Economic Development Intern at Visit Greater Palm Springs during the summer of 2025. He currently works for Daley Strategies, a full-service government and public affairs firm that manages high-profile issues, develops stakeholder engagement, and executes strategies to help corporations, nonprofits, and government agencies advance projects and achieve measurable policy impacts as an Administrative Assistant.
Estevan is proud and honored to have been selected as one of the first board members of the new Young Professionals Advisory Board for Visit Greater Palm Springs. As a lifelong resident of the Coachella Valley, it is inspiring for him to witness the valley’s continued growth and the opportunities emerging for its future. The VGPS team truly believes in empowering the next generation to develop and shine, something he experienced firsthand during his internship with them this past summer. Estevan looks forward to helping shape and grow this board, with the goal of creating more opportunities to support the development of students and young professionals alike.
Edith Alcala: Head of Events
Edith Alcala is a junior at California State University, San Bernardino, Palm Desert Campus, pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Administration with concentrations in Hospitality Management, Marketing, and Sports & Entertainment Marketing.
On campus, she serves as the Social Media Manager for the Hospitality Financial Technology Professionals (HFTP) Club, the Event Planner for the Honors Club, and an executive member of the Catholic Newman Club. She is also an active member of the Research Club.
Edith’s key achievements include completing an event planning internship with Visit Greater Palm Springs, where she gained hands-on experience coordinating and managing large-scale events. As a student assistant for the Hospitality Management Program, she contributed to organizing the annual gala, enhancing her event planning and leadership skills. In addition, she serves as an Orientation Leader, where she helps new students feel welcomed and connected to the campus community.
Passionate about the hospitality industry, especially event planning and marketing, Edith is eager to continue developing her skills and pursuing opportunities that allow her to create memorable experiences and meaningful connections.
Arturo Cortes-Castillo: Head of Finance
Arturo Cortes-Castillo is a senior at CSUSB pursuing a B.A. in Business Administration with a concentration in finance and a minor in accounting. He has a background of four years in the Coachella Valley’s hospitality industry, starting at Grand Hyatt Indian Wells and recently transitioning into a full-time corporate finance and accounting role at Marriott’s Shadow Ridge Resort after the conclusion of his summer internship.
After connecting with VGPS over the summer as a student guest at Destinations International in Chicago, he resonated with the organization's commitment to empowering young professionals in the region. As a new member of the Young Professionals Advisory Board, Arturo is committed to helping shape the future of the Coachella Valley.
