William “Bill” McGowan Jr. » Exhibition City News
Author: Exhibition City News Staff The trade show and travel industry lost a giant when William “Bill” McGowan, Jr. passed away on December 18, 2024. Bill, 89, left an indelible mark on Indianapolis, shaping the city's image as a center for conventions, travel and tourism. He was active in amateur sports while serving as CEO of the Indianapolis Convention and Visitors Association (ICVA, now Visit Indy) from 1984 to 2002. Bill's leadership spearheaded the development of landmark buildings and initiatives that transformed the city. He was instrumental in bringing the Colts to Indianapolis, ensuring the city hosted the inaugural NCAA Men's Final Four in 1980 and securing the 1982 National Sports Festival and the 1987 Pan American Games . His vision was in the creation of the Indiana Dome, the Indiana Convention Center expansion, White River State Park, Circle Center Mall and the rise of Conseco Fieldhouse (now Gambridge Arena). During his nearly two decades with ICVA, Bill significantly promoted…
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