Downtown Fort Worth, Inc. (DFWI) has begun a strategic leadership transition, including the retirement of longtime Festival and Event Producer, Jay Downie, the promotion of Becky Fetty from Director of Marketing and Membership to Director of Festivals and Events and the recent hiring of Courtney Towson as Director of Marketing and Membership.
These changes reflect DFWI’s continued commitment to enhancing downtown experiences, strengthening community partnerships, and driving membership engagement within Fort Worth’s urban core.
Becky Fetty to Succeed Jay Downie
Jay Downie, CFEE, joined DFWI as the festival producer in 1994 and has since collaborated with tens of thousands of volunteers and sponsors to elevate signature events like the MAIN ST. Fort Worth Arts Festival presented by PNC Bank, and the GM Financial Parade of Lights. Under his leadership, his team has coordinated hundreds of parade entries in celebration of the holidays, showcased nearly 4,000 nationally acclaimed visual artists, and welcomed millions of festival attendees to Downtown Fort Worth.
Jay announced his 2026 retirement in 2024, leading to two years of production “shadowing” by Becky Fetty, who formerly served as DFWI’s Marketing and Membership Director. As DFWI’s new Festival Director, Becky will lead the planning, development, and execution of DFWI’s signature festivals and community events, building on her proven track record of delivering outstanding programming that brings residents, businesses, and visitors together.
Fetty has been an integral part of the DFWI team since 2011, contributing to the growth and evolution of downtown events that celebrate the spirit and culture of Fort Worth. Her leadership will continue to expand the organization’s event portfolio and strengthen downtown’s reputation as a dynamic, welcoming destination.
“We are grateful for Jay’s creativity and leadership through the years, and Becky’s passion for creating memorable experiences and her deep understanding of downtown Fort Worth make her the ideal leader for this role,” said President, Andy Taft. “Her promotion recognizes the impact she has already made and the exciting future she will help shape.”
Courtney Towson Joins as Director of Marketing and Membership
DFWI also welcomes Courtney Towson as Director of Marketing and Membership. In this role, Towson will lead initiatives to grow membership, expand communications and grow Fort Worth’s profile as a premier destination for office, hotel, residential, restaurants, retail users and the visitors they attract.
Towson brings more than 18 years of leadership experience in sales, marketing, and event strategy within the hospitality industry. Most recently, she served as Director of Sales and Marketing for major hospitality organizations in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, where she led strategic partnerships, brand positioning, and revenue growth initiatives.
Her deep ties within the Fort Worth community and passion for relationship-building will support DFWI’s mission to connect businesses, stakeholders, and residents while advancing downtown’s continued growth. “We are thrilled to welcome Courtney to the DFWI team,” said DFWI Chairman, Henry Borbolla. “Her expertise in marketing, collaboration, and community engagement will be instrumental as we strengthen our connection with downtown businesses, public and private partners and companies interested in doing business here.”
Looking Ahead
Together, these leadership changes position Downtown Fort Worth, Inc. to continue delivering high-quality events, meaningful partnerships, and innovative programs that support a thriving downtown environment.
DFWI remains dedicated to fostering collaboration, promoting economic vitality, and creating experiences that make downtown Fort Worth a place where businesses succeed and community connections flourish.
About Downtown Fort Worth, Inc.
Downtown Fort Worth, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the vitality and success of downtown Fort Worth through advocacy, partnerships, and strategic initiatives. The organization works collaboratively with businesses, property owners, and community leaders to create a vibrant, welcoming, and economically strong downtown district.
