Sandy Tucker

Client Services Manager

sandy.tucker@topekapartnership.com | 785.215.8190

Sandy Tucker started her journey with Visit Topeka as a part-time Hospitality Specialist at the Topeka Visitor Information Center. Her passion for providing exceptional service and support to visitors quickly earned her a promotion to Executive Assistant to Visit Topeka, and within a year, she was promoted again to Client Services Manager and Manager of the Topeka Visitor Information Center. Sandy is an integral part of the Greater Topeka Partnership and Visit Topeka team, serving as the “Face” of the organization by warmly welcoming guests and providing valuable assistance to groups holding meetings, conventions, family reunions, and sporting events in the city. Her responsibilities also include overseeing the distribution of over 70,000 copies of the Topeka City Guide in both English and Spanish, ensuring visitors have access to all the resources they need to make the most of their time in Topeka.

What's your favorite local business or entrepreneur that you've worked with, and why?

Al Struttman with Moburts Spices is a ROCK STAR! From time to time, groups will ask for local businesses to speak at their meetings. Al is always willing and gives a great presentation! He shares the story of how he developed his business and gives a presentation on spices, where they are sourced from, and how to use them to create delicious dishes. Al even brings samples for each guest. When you enter the Moburts Spice store, you will be welcomed by a delectable aroma of rare spices. The shop is so cozy and welcoming, you won’t want to leave.

What's your go-to recommendation for a fun, affordable activity or event in the local area that also supports the local economy?

When guests ask me what to do in Topeka, I always recommend a tour of our beautiful state Capitol building. Our state capitol is rich in history and beautiful architecture! There is a lovely gift shop in the capitol too! Then I recommend they visit one of our many downtown restaurants! My fav’s are the Pennant or the Celtic Fox! Love their fried mushrooms!

What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced while working to improve the local economy, and how have you overcome them?

The biggest challenge we face is actually the old mindsets of our local citizens. I’m a prime example. Before I came to work for Visit Topeka, I had no idea there were so many things to do and see here. I rarely visited our local attractions, and I never ate at our local restaurants. I only ate at chain restaurants. Now, I love dining at some place new (to me) like the Norseman Brewing Company or the Wheel Barrow in NOTO. The Great Overland Station is one of my favorite attractions and I’m so happy they are holding more and more events there.

In her twenties, Sandy Tucker spent three years living in Edzell, Scotland, where she worked at a newspaper monger and lived in a city "flat." She fell in love with the friendly culture, breathtaking countryside, and delicious baked goods, including her favorite "yum yums," a flaky, twisted long john pastry dipped in glaze. Sandy also had the opportunity to explore castles and gardens, visit pubs, attend medieval dinners, and try haggis. During one vacation, Sandy visited Inverness, home to the famous Loch Ness, but sadly didn't catch a glimpse of the elusive Loch Ness Monster.

DID YOU KNOW

Tulip Time at Old Prairie Town

Sandy adores springtime, which she considers to be the most picturesque season of the year. She finds “Tulip Time” in Topeka particularly delightful, with its vast gardens filled with a diverse range of colorful and distinctive tulips and daffodils. Sandy often takes a moment to appreciate the scenery while sitting on a bench near one of the fountains, basking in the beauty of nature.