Cori-Ann Cearley’s journey from a smalltown upbringing to a successful hotel owner in Munising, Michigan, is a testament to her unwavering dedication, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to her community. Born and raised in Munising, Cearley was immersed in the hospitality industry from a young age. Her parents, who owned numerous businesses including the Northern Motel (later renamed Pictured Rocks Inn and Suites), provided her with invaluable insights into business management and instilled in her the values of hard work and dedication.

Attending Northern Michigan University for a hospitality degree, Cearley realized that her true education came from her upbringing and hands-on experience in the family business. It was this early exposure that laid the foundation for her future career path.

After University in 2000, Cearley ventured to Chicago in pursuit of expanding her small town girl upbringing to broader horizons. She worked various jobs before finding her niche in the hospitality sector. Her determination and work ethic saw her rise through the ranks, eventually becoming the hotel manager at Best Western O’Hare / Elk Grove Hotel, a large property with over 300 rooms. However, the call of home beckoned, and in 2006, Cearley returned to Munising to be closer to her family.

Back in her hometown, Cearley focused on managing her parents’ hotels while simultaneously overseeing other properties and later taking on the role of Executive Director of the Munising Visitors Bureau.

In 2021, Cearley took a significant leap by fully purchasing Pictured Rocks Inn and Suites from her parents, having worked towards this ownership with incremental payments since 2011. She has been instrumental in transforming it into the thriving business it is today. “Buying the hotel was a natural progression for me,” Cearley explains. “It was a culmination of years of experience and a deep-rooted passion for hospitality.” With her innovative vision and hands-on approach, Cearley has successfully elevated Pictured Rocks Inn and Suites, making it a premier destination for travelers visiting Munising.

While Cearley wears multiple hats as a hotel owner and Executive Director of the Munising Visitors Bureau, she sees these roles as complementary rather than conflicting. “Owning the hotel is a separate thing from running the Visitors Bureau,” she clarified. “When I’m wearing my Visitors Bureau hat, I’m not promoting my hotel specifically. I’m promoting all of the area’s hotels, attractions, and natural beauty.”

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Cori for over a decade and not only do I consider her a valuable colleague and partner, but a good friend. Her work with the Munising Visitors Bureau, other committees and boards in Munising and the area, has benefited the community in many ways. She cares not only about the future economic stability and success of the community but the people of Munising as well. I’ve watched her advocate over the years for causes that are important to the people that live here. Partnering with her and the Munising Visitors Bureau has been invaluable.

Notably, the Munising Visitors Bureau (MVB) operates as a nonprofit organization funded through a 5% occupancy tax, supporting promotions, events, and community projects in Munising. With a mission to enhance the area’s long-term development and marketing, the MVB collaborates with local entities and sponsors initiatives like trail development and community events. Through partnerships with organizations such as the Snowmobile and ORV Association of Alger County (SORVA) and the Munising Bay Trail Network (MBTN), the MVB facilitates projects like trail maintenance and races. Additionally, it supports infrastructure and community events, ensuring the vibrancy and livability of Munising.

Last year the MVB was able to make a significant contribution to the local elementary school playground. Collaborative efforts with the Alger County Chamber of Commerce/Greater Munising Bay Partnership and Munising Downtown Development Authority further strengthen community offerings. The MVB’s contributions play a vital role in fostering economic growth and community well-being, reflecting its commitment to the area’s future development and prosperity.

John Madigan, the general manager at Pictured Rocks Cruises, commends Cori-Ann Cearley and the Munising Visitors Bureau as invaluable allies in showcasing the region’s natural splendor, stating, “Cori and the Visitors Bureau are wonderful partners with Pictured Rocks Cruises Inc. in promoting our area.” Their collaboration not only boosts the profile of Pictured Rocks Cruises but also enriches the overall tourism experience, spotlighting the area’s attractions. Through concerted efforts and strategic alliances, they attract visitors, spotlight local offerings, and advocate for sustainable tourism practices, ultimately benefiting the community and its stakeholders.

Cearley’s impact extends beyond her business endeavors; her involvement in the tourism sector naturally led her to sit on several boards, including the Hospital Association, Downtown Development Authority (DDA), The Great Waters of Michigan’s Eastern UP, and the Upper Peninsula Travel and Recreation Association (UPTRA). She actively participates in community initiatives and volunteers her time to make Munising a better place for all. Whether it’s advocating for local businesses, promoting tourism, or supporting community events, Cearley is always at the forefront, driving positive change and growth.

Balancing her roles as a business owner and community leader is no small feat, but Cearley approaches it with grace and flexibility. “There are busy times and slower times,” said Cearley. “I’ve learned to go with the flow and not let it stress me out.” Her ability to adapt to the demands of her dual roles while maintaining a strong presence in the community speaks volumes about her leadership skills and commitment to excellence.

Cearley shared insights into her work and vision for the future. When asked about the most rewarding aspect of her work, she emphasized the joy of witnessing her hometown thrive. “The most rewarding aspect of my work is seeing my beautiful little town come back to life,” she said.

Regarding the future of tourism in Munising, Cearley expressed optimism about continued growth. However, she also emphasized the importance of making incremental infrastructure improvements to accommodate the rising number of visitors over time. “I envision tourism in the Munising area to continue to increase in small increments every year for the next several years,” Cearley explained. “In order for service to be effective, it must meet the demand. This ensures that both locals and visitors have a better experience.”

Outside of her professional endeavors, Cearley remains deeply engaged in community service. She has volunteered for organizations such as Alger Parks and Rec for many years and more recently volunteers for her children’s school Booster Club, actively contributing to the well-being of Munising residents. Cearley emphasized the importance of giving back to the community, a value instilled in her by her parents.

In her personal life, Cearley finds solace in reading, citing it as her number one hobby. She cherishes moments spent in the sun with a good book, although such leisure time is rare. Her family, particularly her two children, also hold a special place in her heart. “My kids are my number one hobby and interest,” Cearley says. “Whatever their hobby is, it becomes my newest hobby at any given time.”

Cearley acknowledges the support of her family and the lessons learned along the way. “I’ve been fortunate to have a strong family support system throughout my life and invaluable experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today,” said Cearley. “I’m married to a man who is not threatened by someone who is a professional and has a strong career path and career goals.”

She highlighted her husband, Ramsey’s, pivotal behind-the-scenes support, allowing her to attend events like the Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism while he takes care of their children. She expressed gratitude for Ramsey’s unwavering backing and shared her children’s involvement in the family business, with her eight-yearold daughter Mercy expressing aspirations to take over the hotel in the future and her teenage son Ramsey set to join the hotel staff this summer. Emphasizing the family’s commitment to their business, Cearley noted her husband’s contributions to its maintenance, affirming its continuity as a family enterprise for generations to come.

In offering advice to aspiring entrepreneurs in the hospitality industry, Cearley highlighted the current opportunities for growth. “Now is a great time to be getting involved in hospitality,” she said. “There’s a lot of opportunity for young people to enter the field, gain experience, and pursue their own ventures.”

As for her legacy, Cearley hopes to leave behind a vibrant community where families can thrive. “I hope that all the work that I’ve done provides a lane for my own children to pursue hospitality if they wish,” she said. “I want them to be able to raise a family in a small town, have a career, and support their family.”

Cearley’s journey exemplifies the intersection of entrepreneurship, community leadership, and a deep-rooted love for her hometown. As she looks towards the future, she remains steadfast in her mission to elevate Munising’s hospitality industry while making a lasting impact on the lives of its residents. With her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence, there’s no doubt that Cori-Ann Cearley will continue to shine brightly as a beacon of inspiration and success in her beloved hometown.