Illustration by iracosma for Adobe Stock
The U.S. Travel Association announced today the inaugural class of 22 Emerging Travel Leaders, an immersive leadership-development program for rising stars in the travel industry. The program was created to expand the exposure, knowledge and capabilities of a diverse group of promising individuals as they build their careers.
Following is the 2022 class of Emerging Travel Leaders:
Amanda Baker, Visit North Carolina
Katherine Barnes, IDEMIA
Travis Binkley, Visit Orlando
Christian Cadle, Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board
Susana Carraza, Disneyland
Megan Conway, Travel Portland
Amelia Deluca, Delta Air Lines
Lorne Edwards, Visit Phoenix
Maria Fabregat, Disney Signature Experiences
Jennifer Haber, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
Petra Hackworth, Travel Oregon
Drew Hays, Visit Austin
Christina Heggie, Google
Connie Kinnard, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
Mia Landrin, Carnival Cruise Line
Robin McClain, Destination DC
Jacob Pewitt Yancey, Visit Florida
Dawson Pritchett, Visit Lauderdale
Alix Skelpsa Ridgway, Arizona Office of Tourism
Taylor Stanley, Visit Lake Charles
Keith Stiff, Universal Orlando Resort
Armine Terzyan, Associated Luxury Hotels International
The program advances an objective included in the National Chair’s Platform, led by Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line and national chair of U.S. Travel. The aim is to spur the development of a diverse, equitable and inclusive industry to lead travel into the future.
“One of the key facets of U.S. Travel’s long-term vision is to strengthen our workforce by identifying areas for career advancement and upward mobility,” said Roger Dow, the organization's president and CEO. “By launching a program that intentionally provides access to highly skilled professionals and premier events, we are forging the next generation of leaders who will shape a dynamic and diverse future for travel.”
The Emerging Travel Leaders will participate in a year-long program of immersive experiences at U.S. Travel events, including at spring and fall board meetings, Destination Capitol Hill, and a fall advocacy conference where they will gain an understanding of U.S. Travel’s mission, values and culture. The program also gives U.S. Travel board members an opportunity to engage with developing and diverse talents.
Chairman's Circle members of U.S. Travel’s board of directors are eligible to participate in the Emerging Travel Leaders program. Nominees were selected by the board’s Governance Committee.