Awards Journal
PROGRAM
WELCOME
David L. Miller – Davler Media City Guide
Delta Air Lines
Chuck Imhof, Vice President, Sales – East
Shannon Szoke, Director of NY Sales – Banking & Private Equity
MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES
Anastacia McCleskey – in Boop! The Musical
Kim Wright BIDS – GOVERNMENT AFFILIATED
Stacey Hosang CULTURAL ARTS/ MUSEUMS
Mary Murphy HOTEL CONCIERGE
Nicole McLean HOTEL GENERAL MANAGER
Gina DiGennaro HOTEL MANAGEMENT
HONOREES
Erica Maurer NIGHTLIFE
Chef Morgan Jarrett RESTAURANT
Teresa Rodriguez RETAIL
Julie Boardman THEATER
Stephanie Lee TICKET & BOOKING SERVICES
SPECIAL AWARDS
Monia Bonaldo TOUR GUIDE
Stacey Toussaint TOUR OPERATOR
Abby Endres TOURISM AD AGENCY/PR
Nancy Mammana TOURISM MARKETING
Claire Chirouze-Ulloa TOURISM SALES
Claudia Soto TRANSPORTATION
Alicia Pierro COMMUNITY SERVICE
Khianna Parks UP AND COMER
Magaly Buitrago LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
May 20, 2025
Welcome to Women in Tourism 2025!
We are thrilled to gather today to celebrate the accomplishments of the innovative, passionate, and dedicated women who lead the way in New York City’s tourism industry.
Our community thrives on collaboration and Davler Media appreciates the support that makes Women In Tourism possible. We thank our esteemed judges, who invested hours in reviewing the over 200 nominations we received. We also thank Presenting Sponsor Delta Air Lines for their commitment to these awards and all the sponsors who helped make this possible.
Women In Tourism also contributes to the future by establishing a scholarship for an NYC high school student from the NAF Academy of Hospitality & Tourism, which supports nearly 1,000 hospitality and tourism students in our city.
In the world of New York City tourism, new challenges constantly arise. We take them on with confidence thanks to the expertise of the professionals in this room today.
Tourism strong,
David L. Miller CEO
Thank You
to all of our Sponsors who helped make Women in Tourism 2025 a TREMENDOUS success!
DELTA CELEBRATES WOMEN IN TOURISM .
Thank you for helping make New York one of the world’s favorite destinations.
Women In Tourism Scholarship
Women In Tourism is proud to support young women (and some men) in their career advancement within the tourism industry.
A scholarship has been established for NAF’s (National Academy Foundation) Academy of Hospitality and Tourism which serves nearly 1,000 hospitality and tourism students in NYC.
Congratulations to our 2025 Scholarship Winner, Emely Vivanco Nava. She is a graduating senior from the NAF Academy of Hospitality & Tourism at the High School for Enterprise, Business, and Technology in Brooklyn, NY.
University Tourism & Hospitality Students
Women In Tourism is proud to be hosting hospitality and tourism undergraduate and grad students from NYU’s Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality and Hospitality Management at St. John’s University as the industry’s guests at the luncheon. The students will have the opportunity to network with 2024 honorees, nominees, and luncheon guests, as well as receive advice and testimonials about working in the industry.
Kim Wright
ORGANIZATION
NYC Tourism + Conventions
CATEGORY
BIDS – GOVERNMENT AFFILIATED
Kim Wright is a seasoned tourism executive with experience in sales, marketing, revenue management, and operations. As SVP of Membership at NYC Tourism + Conventions, she drives member engagement and industry partnerships. Previously, she led revenue strategy at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, generating $80M annually, partnership development for Hornblower and played a key role in reopening the Intrepid Museum. She began her career at Circle Line Statue of Liberty Ferry, overseeing marketing and partnerships for the Statue’s post-9/11 reopening. A recognized leader in the industry, Kim has shaped revenue strategies for some of NYC’s most iconic attractions.
Stacey Hosang
ORGANIZATION
Intrepid Museum
CATEGORY
CULTURAL ARTS/MUSEUMS
Stacey Hosang is an accomplished communications executive with 15+ years of experience leading media strategy, events, and brand storytelling across the cultural, nonprofit, and corporate sectors. As Director of Communications at the Intrepid Museum, she oversees integrated campaigns that elevate institutional visibility, increase audience engagement, and secure national and international media attention. Previously, Stacey spent more than a decade at the Empire State Building, spearheading highprofile initiatives, including the communication efforts for a $165 million Observatory renovation. Her work has earned prestigious recognition, including an Edward R. Murrow Award. A Syracuse University graduate, Stacey is an avid traveler, skier, and dog enthusiast.
HONOREES
Mary Murphy
ORGANIZATION
Omni Berkshire Place
CATEGORY
HOTEL CONCIERGE
With a distinguished 26-year career in luxury hospitality, Mary Gaffney-Murphy is the Assistant Chef Concierge at the Omni Berkshire Hotel, where she consistently delivers exceptional service. A passionate advocate for New York City, she delights in sharing its unique energy with guests. Mary has held prominent roles in the industry, including serving as President of the New York City Association of Hotel Concierges (NYCAHC). Her outstanding contributions have earned her prestigious honors such as Concierge of the Year and the Community Service Award. A Co-Founder of the Concierge Choice Awards, she is also dedicated to giving back through her support of organizations like Dreams Come True, Pathhseo Inc., and Women In Need. Outside of her professional life, Mary enjoys the arts, dining, and community service activities.
Nicole McLean
ORGANIZATION
Highgate Hotels
CATEGORY
HOTEL GENERAL MANAGER
Nicole McLean, a hospitality veteran with 20+ years of experience, has been a General Manager at Highgate Hotels for six years. Inspired by early experiences of inequity during family travels, she pursued a Hospitality degree and built her career from the ground up, working in every hotel department. Nicole believes true leadership requires understanding every layer of an organization. Beyond hotels, she serves as a guest speaker at universities and volunteers through her sorority. Passionate about service, she excels at anticipating and exceeding guest expectations while striving to create more equitable travel experiences.
Gina DiGennaro
ORGANIZATION
Aimbridge
CATEGORY HOTEL
MANAGEMENT
Gina DiGennaro is an experienced Area Sales Manager with Aimbridge Hospitality, driving revenue and building client relationships across The Hilton Fashion District, The Hilton Garden Inn on 35th Street, and The Truss Times Square in New York City. She’s a trusted partner to clients, a mentor to colleagues, and thrives on teamwork and fast-paced challenges. With over 25 years of experience working with leading hospitality brands such as Hilton and Marriot brands she brings energy, heart, and insight to every partnership she builds. Gina is known for her client-focused approach, guest-first mindset, and ability to drive revenue in competitive markets. This has successfully helped her lead teams at full-service and boutique hotels across major markets.
Erica Maurer
ORGANIZATION
EMRG Media
CATEGORY NIGHTLIFE
Erica Maurer is a seasoned entrepreneur, event producer, and speaker with a Master’s from Columbia and a degree from Tufts. As Partner at EMRG Media, she leads event production and marketing for top brands like YouTube, Spotify, and Google. Her company created The Event Planner Expo, the leading industry trade show. With over $200M in event revenue generated, she’s recognized among BizBash Top 500 and Eventex’s Most Influential. Erica also serves on the ILEA board and was named Committee Member of the Year in 2024. Her work consistently drives major growth and visibility for venues and clients alike.
Morgan Jarrett
ORGANIZATION
Patina Restaurant Group
CATEGORY
RESTAURANT
Chef Morgan Jarrett, a Texas native, discovered her passion for cooking while working at The Grape Escape in Fort Worth. She honed her skills at NYC’s French Culinary Institute under legends like Jacques Pépin. Her career began at Brooklyn’s Seersucker, where she embraced farm-to-table cooking, later deepening that connection as the opening chef of Yellow Magnolia Café at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Now, she leads the kitchen at State Grill and Bar in the Empire State Building, focusing on sustainability and urban farming through partnerships with Afterlife Mushrooms, Marsh Hen Mills, and ESB’s own beehives.
Teresa Rodriguez
ORGANIZATION
Century 21
CATEGORY
Retail
With a career spanning decades in retail, Teresa Rodriguez Bradley joined Century 21 NYC in 2017, bringing a deep passion for fostering partnerships that drive visitor traffic downtown. She prides herself on establishing strong relationships with hotels, attractions, and fellow tourism partners, ensuring Century 21 remains a key destination in the city’s travel experience. Teresa played a pivotal role in reestablishing Century 21 NYC and strengthening its position post-pandemic. Leveraging her expertise in consumer engagement and strategic collaborations, she has helped revitalize the iconic store as a must-visit destination within New York’s vibrant retail and tourism landscape.
Julie Boardman
ORGANIZATION
Museum of Broadway
CATEGORY THEATER
Julie Boardman is the Executive Producer and Co-Founder of the award-winning Museum of Broadway, which opened in Times Square in 2022. She is the Founder of Untitled Theatricals and a two-time Tony Award winner, having co-produced over 20 shows on Broadway, National Tours, and the West End, including the current Broadway revival of Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club, Buena Vista Social Club, Sunset Blvd, Smash and Damn Yankees. Julie has produced multiple major fundraising events and, through her company Boardman Productions, worked with some of the world’s leading brands including Nike, Maybelline, Evian, Vogue, Victoria’s Secret, Microsoft, Diet Coke, VitaminWater, Samsung, HBO’s Game of Thrones, Disney’s The Lion King and many more on their activations and fan experiences.
Stephanie Lee
ORGANIZATION
Group Sales Box Office at Broadway.com
CATEGORY
TICKET & BOOKING SERVICES
Stephanie Lee, President and CEO of Group Sales Box Office (GSBO), a subsidiary of the John Gore Organization, provides the leadership of and vision for GSBO, the leading Broadway group ticketing agency since 1960. Stephanie attributes the continued growth of GSBO, to the strength of decades-long relationships and the contributions of her extraordinary team. Her passion for bringing more audiences to Broadway is equaled by her determination to increase tourism to NYC. Stephanie served as the first female supplier-member on the Executive Board of the American Bus Association and most recently, as the chair of its annual conference, Marketplace 2025. Stephanie’s greatest pride, her children and outside of the office you can find her running lines with her daughter and cheering rink-side, for her son.
Monia Bonaldo
ORGANIZATION
GuidaTuristicaNYC
CATEGORY
TOUR GUIDE
Monia is a proud Italian from Milan and founder of GuidaTuristicaNYC. She obtained her license over 10-years ago and has been passionately working as a certified tour guide since. Throughout the years, Monia has worked with the Italian Consulate, celebrities, mastered the 5-boroughs, and even began branching out to Philadelphia, Boston, Washington, Niagara Falls and the Midwest. She has been a member of GANYC since 2018 and was a nominee for Women in Tourism 2-years in a row. Her specialty is customizing tours for those seeking an unforgettably unique experience, focusing on the city’s hidden secrets.
Stacey Toussaint
ORGANIZATION
Inside Out Tours
CATEGORY
TOUR OPERATOR
Stacey Toussaint Murdock, Esq., a Brooklyn native of Haitian descent and Columbia Law graduate, founded Inside Out Tours in 2010. An award-winning NYC-based tour operator, it blends iconic sightseeing with a social mission of amplifying marginalized voices. Stacey’s diverse background includes roles as an assistant television producer, adjunct professor, commercial litigation lawyer, and small business consultant. Inside Out Tours also offers internships to high-risk youth and is pioneering accessible tourism initiatives for people with disabilities. Recognized with the 2024 New York State Tourism Excellence Award, TripAdvisor Hall of Fame, and 2024 Travelers’ Choice Award, its work has been featured in The New York Times, BBC, CBS, Netflix, and the NY Times bestseller “How the Word is Passed.”
Abby Endres
ORGANIZATION
LIFT Marketing
CATEGORY
TOURISM AD AGENCY/PR
As Founder, CEO, and Owner of LIFT Marketing, Abby leads a full-service, boutique advertising agency specializing in entertainment, tourism, and lifestyle marketing. LIFT collaborates with an elite roster of clients to deliver tangible results, including increased revenue, admissions and visitation, through bespoke advertising campaigns and activations. Leveraging a comprehensive suite of agency services—Strategy, Rev Propulsion™, Media Planning and Buying, Digital & Web Programs, Branding, Creative Services, and Promotions—Abby drives innovation, growth and impact for a variety of brands and clients. Her expertise and leadership position LIFT as a trusted partner for high-profile brands seeking results in competitive industries. LIFT is a certified member of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) and New York State certified Women Owned Business (WBE).
Nancy Mammana
ORGANIZATION
NYC Tourism + Conventions
CATEGORY
TOURISM MARKETING
Nancy Mammana is proudly the Chief Marketing Officer of New York City Tourism + Conventions, where she leads marketing & media strategies, events, partnerships, creative & content and global tourism development. Since joining in 2018, she spearheaded NYC Tourism’s first rebrand in 26 years and overhauled its digital presence, including a brand new website, nyctourism.com. Her current role is truly full circle, having previously held leadership roles at Patina Restaurant Group, the National Basketball Association, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Cunard Line, and The Marketing Arm, working across travel, hospitality, sports, and entertainment. With extensive agency experience, she has represented top brands like PepsiCo, Starwood Hotels and American Express. A passionate traveler and cook, Nancy also enjoys International Latin ballroom dancing in her spare time.
Claire Chirouze-Ulloa
ORGANIZATION
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
CATEGORY
TOURISM SALES
Claire is an accomplished tourism professional with almost two decades of experience in the travel industry. As the Director of Global Trade Sales at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, she is instrumental in promoting this renowned attraction to domestic and international markets. Her dynamic career includes key business development roles at the Empire State Building Observatory, HotelsPro and Manhattan by Sail. Claire built her well-earned reputation on hard work, commitment to excellence, and an unparalleled ability to thrive in multicultural environments. As a true global citizen, she loves traveling the world while sharing her passion and love for NYC. She looks forward to continuing to drive tourism growth and shape the industry’s future.
Claudia Soto
ORGANIZATION
Big Bus Tours
CATEGORY
TRANSPORTATION
Born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Claudia Soto is an inspiring leader with a deep passion for travel and tourism. She pursued a degree in Travel & Tourism at Johnson & Wales University in North Miami and participated in an internship with Conway Tours, Inc., which later became Big Bus Tours. Over the past 15 years, she has been instrumental in Big Bus Tours’ growth. Eleven years ago, she helped launch Big Bus Tours New York, shaping operations, forging key partnerships, and driving business growth. As the Assistant General Manager, her commitment to the industry has positioned her among the top professionals in the field.
SPECIAL AWARDS
Alicia Pierro
ORGANIZATION
Big Apple Greeters
CATEGORY
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Alicia Pierro leads Big Apple Greeter, NYC’s “welcome visitor” program. “Greeters” meet thousands of visitors each year, taking them to corners of the city that do not usually benefit from tourism. Pierro leads a team of more than 200 volunteer Greeters and office staff. In addition to providing visitors with a unique NYC experience, Big Apple Greeter offers New Yorkers a chance to make friends, humanize a city that can be overwhelming for newcomers, and support economic development citywide. Under Pierro’s leadership, Big Apple Greeter has received more than 30 awards recognizing the organization’s work to enhance New York’s image.
Khianna Parks
ORGANIZATION
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
CATEGORY UP AND COMER
Khianna Parks, a proud New Yorker with Jamaican roots, has built a career rooted in hospitality and travel. She began as a concierge at hotels before joining SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, where she grew from the Box Office team to her current role as Local Partnerships and Concierge Sales Manager. Passionate about creating memorable experiences, she loves seeing guests’ awe when they step into Transcendence. Khianna’s journey reflects resilience, from navigating industry setbacks during the pandemic to being the 2025 Women in Tourism Up and Comer. She remains dedicated to showcasing the best of New York City.
Magaly Buitrago
ORGANIZATION
Five A Incentive Planners Inc
Magaly Buitrago, a native of Colombia and a lifetime NYC resident, is a seasoned professional in the event planning and incentive travel industry. As Partner and Managing Director at 5A Incentive Planners, she leads the company in designing and executing tailored incentive programs and events. Under her leadership, 5A received NYC M/WBE certification and 5A Incentive Planners has built a strong reputation for delivering exceptional experiences that cater to the unique needs of each client. Known for her unwavering commitment to clients and her innate ability to cultivate lasting relationships, Magaly is highly regarded by those fortunate enough to work with her over the past 35 years. She is not only a trusted mentor but also devoted to her friends and family.
JUDGES
Jennifer Ackerson
President, Alon Tourism Solutions
Jennifer Ackerson is a NY certified women-owned small-business owner. For more than 25 years, Jennifer has demonstrated tireless dedication and passion for improving the relationships between travel industry buyers and sellers. Most notably, Jennifer has become a strong presence in the travel industry through the creation of a firstof-its-kind tourism education program, developing and leading both NYC Tourism + Conventions ‘Tourism Ready’ and the IITA ‘Inbound Insider Steps to Success’ national tourism training programs. She has touched thousands of tourism businesses and her experience in the industry enables her to offer creative solutions and help businesses successfully realize their tourism goals. “Tourism is the best job in the world! You get to have fun, travel the globe learning and exploring everyday, and giving back by serving people along the way.
Jaclyn Bernstein
President and Partner,
Empire
Force Events
A NYC Event Production, Hospitality & Tourism professional, leader, insider & champion. Owner of NYC’s longest independent & locally owned destination management company, only job worked at from college, then bought the company. Momentous honors: BizBash’s “Top 500 People in Events, Must-Know Events Pros, Most Influential Event Professionals & Influencers;” NYC Tourism + Conventions Board of Director; Lifetime Achievement Award, International Live Events Association (ILEA); 4 Halls of Fame/Legends, Meeting Professionals International NY, BizBash, ILEA NY, Event Solutions; Inaugural Woman of the Year – ILEA NY; Smart Women in Meeting – Visionary Award Winner. During pandemic – Live Events Coalition NY Co-Founder. Grew-up in Brooklyn on welfare, now lifelong respected industry caregiver & icon!
Anna Karnowski
Experienced Tourism & Hospitality Professional
Anna is a dynamic tourism leader with two decades of dedication to NYC attractions. In her previous role as the Regional Director of New York at Go City, she managed attraction partnerships citywide, merging her passion for tourism with top sights. Anna played integral roles in launching Top of the Rock and SPYSCAPE, and has held senior positions at One World Observatory and New York Water Taxi. Beyond her professional endeavors, she advocates tirelessly for NYC tourism. With an endless desire to explore, Anna is always eager to share her love for the city with anyone who will listen within her social networks. “Some of us were born here and some of us grew here. Regardless of your origin story, thank you to all the unnamed women supporting our industry.”
Carly McCloskey
Director of Marketing and Communications, St. Ann’s Warehouse
Carly McCloskey has 18 years of sales and marketing experience promoting major arts organizations in New York City and is currently operating as director of marketing and communications for St. Ann’s Warehouse in Brooklyn. During her 10-year tenure at MoMA, she has worked on projects ranging from a blockbuster Matisse exhibition to the major museum expansion that opened in 2019. Prior to MoMA, she has worked in sales and marketing for The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Broadway.com, and the Paul Taylor Dance Company. In her spare time, she volunteers with Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and Korean K-9 Rescue and can usually be found at one of New York City’s many concert venues.
Luisa Mendoza
Founder and CEO of GTSE, Global Tourism Sports & Entertainment and MyTicketPro
JUDGES
Luisa is a trailblazer with over two decades of experience in global business development and marketing within the tourism and sports industries. As the official Sports and Tourism Ambassador for the U.S. Travel Association and IPW, Luisa fervently champions U.S. sports on a worldwide stage. Her innovative strategies have earned her prestigious accolades like the Microsoft Legacy Project’s Award, recognizing Luisa as one of the most influential, groundbreaking Hispanic Changemakers of our time. Her transformative journey from immigrant to successful entrepreneur not only impacts the US economy but also ignites hope and motivation to aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders globally.
Cristyne Nicholas
CEO, Nicholas & Lence Communications
Cristyne Nicholas, CEO co-founded Nicholas & Lence Communications with George Lence in 2007, a strategic public relations and government affairs firm known for helping individuals, businesses, not for profits and iconic NYC neighborhoods elevate their profiles. Prior to NLC, Nicholas was best known for rebuilding NYC’s $27 billion dollar tourism industry following the tragic events of September 11th, by launching the City’s first consumer TV advertising campaign, patriotic tourism initiatives and recruiting major events such as The World Economic Forum, The Grammy Awards, RNC 2004, Country Music Awards, and Super Bowl XLVIII. A former Mayoral press secretary and communications director, Cristyne was named 40 under 40 by Crain’s New York Business and Top 100 Women by City & State New York. In 2012, she was appointed Chair of the NYS Tourism Advisory Council and serves as the Chairman of the Broadway Association. She is the co-host of Radio Night Live on AM 970 The Answer. Although Cristyne has many titles, she is most proud to be called Mom by her three amazing teens.
Ann Peterson
General Manager, The New Yorker Hotel
Prior to joining the New Yorker, Ann spent 25 years with IHG holding leadership positions with prestigious brands such as InterContinental and Crowne Plaza culminating with the position of Regional Vice President of Operations for the East Coast. She also held the position of General Manager at the Omni Shoreham Hotel located in Washington DC, where she directed the hotel’s operating, sales, and marketing efforts. Additionally, she has also served on the Board of Directors for several industry organizations, including the New York Hotel Association, the 34th Street BID, Hospitality High School Washington DC, Destination DC, the Westchester YWCA, was a past President of the White Plains Rotary Club.
Andrea Roman
Director of Sales, The Fireman Hospitality Group
Andrea Roman brings vast experience of creating, selling, marketing and managing all aspects of events and partnerships in the world of restaurants. She started her career 30 years ago working for some of the mavericks in the restaurant world. She began at the once famous Sign of the Dove, then moved onto The Fireman Hospitality Group in 1995. She went on to The Palm Restaurant Group, Planet Hollywood International and returned to The Fireman Hospitality Group in 2012. Her philosophy is a restaurant is not only about the guest experience but also the role and responsibility it has to the community, She is proud and grateful her experiences let her to be a part of the Tourism Community.
Polina Roze
Concierge, JW Marriott
Essex House
Polina is a hotel Concierge with over 30 years of hospitality experience. A graduate of the NYU Journalism School, she started her career at the NY Marriott Marquis in the heart of Times Square. Realizing her dream was to become an expert in culture, theater, the arts, nightlife, dining and fashion, she feels blessed to follow her calling as an ambassador to our wonderful city. While welcoming visitors she also contributes as a tourism resource for magazines, travel platforms and the media. Representing the JW Marriott Essex House on Central Park South, she proudly wears her Les Clef’s d’Or USA keys and embraces her NYCAHC membership. Polina is captivated by our magical city sharing her love and enthusiasm with her guests.
Nastassia Welter
VP of Sales, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Nastassia Welter is a passionate, disruptive, and innovative thought leader with 20 years of experience in the tourism, hospitality, and entertainment industry, who has worked globally with the top brands/ CEO’s & international organizations such as Disney, Citysightseeing, Leisure Pass and IHG Hotels, leading travel trade partners and clients, in China, Australia, Europe, Canada, USA and Latin America. Nastassia’s humble beginnings are a constant reminder that no matter your background or race, anything is possible if you have the courage to follow your dreams and always be kind.
THANK YOU to our 2025 Emcee
Starring in BOOP! The Musical ANASTACIA McCLESKEY
2025 NOMINEES
LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER:
Abbey Rader – The Highline Hotel
Abigail Rickards – Empire State Reality Trust
Alessia Nencioni – Barefoot New York
Alexis Melendez – NY Cruise Lines/Circle Line
Sightseeing Cruises
Amanda Reed – Thompson Central Park New York
Amanda Wierbowski – SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Anastasiia Yureneva – Club Wyndham Midtown 45
Ann Sansaricq – Triumph Hotels
Anna Meshcheriakova – Times Square Photo Studio
Carianne Carleo-Evangelist – NYC Tourism + Conventions
Catalina Muneton – Aimbridge Hospitality
Chantel Martinez – Merlin Entertainments
Christina Poon – W New York Union Square
Christine Lazzara – Just Ask Christine
Cynthia Shephard – Black Tap Craft Burgers and Beer
Dawa Dhargytseng – The Pierre Hotel
Dawna Naylor – InterContinental New York Times Square
Dayna Nicles – The Phillips Club
Dayna Zeitlin – Sofitel New York
Diane Vadnal – The Press Room
Dina Rabiner – Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce
Dr. Camelia Tepelus – Morris Park BID
Ece Ozaman – Jazz at Lincoln Center
Elaine Spezio – Andaz 5th Avenue
Erica Quow – Hotel Edison/Triumph Hotels
Francesca Merlino – Hudson Yards Experience
Gabrielle Napolitano - Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce & Brooklyn Made Stores
Heather Davis – Aimbridge Hospitality
Isabelle Mary – MAD Tours and Events
Jane Shin – Triumph Hotels
Jane Schell – The Muny
Jeanette Collado - GEHR Hospitality - Fairfield by Marriott Times Square and Four Points Midtown Times Square
Jordan Lacey - Light The Candle, 501(c)(3)
Joy Mishani - The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad
July Martinez – Carmine’s
Kai-Ti Kao – Hudson Yards Experience
Katherine Hill – Vivace Tours
Katie Dugan – SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Kaylyn Libolt – Charm Aviation
Lakshmee Singh – Diwali Motorcade
Laura Dulligan - Rockefeller Center
Leslie Papa – Vivacity Media Group
MacKenzie Zarzycki - Saratoga County - NY Discover Saratoga Tourism
Madalena Phillips – Hornblower Group
Maddie Greenberg – The Press Room
Manuela Biondi - Per Le Strade di New York LLC
Maria Papazoglou - Lexington Hotel Autograph Collection New York
Maria Merrill – Artisans of Leisure
Mariana Marcone – Rockefeller Center
Marie Assante – Assante PR
Marillyn Franco – SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Marisa Horowitz-Jaffe – Museums with Marisa
Marissa Gonzales – WICKED the Musical - Broadway
Mary Hilly – Highgate Hotels
Maureen Reidy – The Paley Center for Media
Megan Marod – The Megan Daily
Meghan Hart – Classic Harbor Line
Melissa Delbuono - Lexington Hotel Autograph Collection New York
Micaela Donovan – Murder Mystery at Carmines
Michelle Cabot – Great Jones Distilling Co.
Michelle Pino – Northeast Unlimited Tours
Miranda Hoffner – Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
Mirian Ortega - The Lexington Hotel, Autograph Collection
Monica Lopez – Brand USA
Nancy Vargas - DH2 Chauffeured Transportation
Natalia Bulatkina – The Penn Club of NY
Natalia Bellaflores Zayas - Expedia
Natasha Cornstein - Blushington
Nina Mende - GANYC
Noelle Mooney – Stout NYC Hospitality Group
Pasquina De Carlo - Teamamerica
Pat Mazzucca – Independent Contractor
Patricia Franco Santiago – New York Marriott Downtown
Rabia Ashfaque – SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Rachel Tomasky – Hyatt Place Long Island/East End
Regena Falling – St. Regis Hotel
Rochelle Wilson – Highgate Hotels
Rory Lipede – Telltale Tours
Roxanne Cade – Broadway Direct
Sara Lyons - Walks of NY
Sarah Pennington – Classic Harbor Line
Shahannah Verdad – Royalton New York
Shanelle Mangold - Mēdüzā Mediterrania
Sheelagh Wylie – Empire State Building Observatory
Sierra Brown – Long Island City Partnership
Simonetta Angiolin - Volatour
Stacy Moscatelli – Original X Productions
Stacy Shuster - Wollman Rink NYC/Wollman Park Partners
Stephanie Montenegro – Wyndham Midtown 45
Suelyn Camchong - The National September 11 Memorial & Museum
Susanne Carter – The Lowell Hotel
Suzette McLeod - Courtyard By Marriott Times Square South
Sylvia Leone - Renaissance New York Midtown
Tara Hippensteel – City Cruises by Hornblower
Tatiana Thompson – David Burke Hospitality
Tennile Boyd – Highgate Hotels
Tracy Richardson – Hotel Hayden
Trish Giordano – Earl Enterprises/Planet Hollywood
Victoria Freeman – The Bowery Group
Victoria Cairl – Table 7
Virginia Miller – Alon Tourism Solutions
Whitney Holden Gore – Vivacity Media Group
Zaria Thuesday – NYC Tourism + Conventions
As a proud sponsor of the 2025 Women in Tourism Awards, The Business Council of New York State congratulates all of the nominees and winners. The Council is committed to developing and growing the tourism industry to help it remain viable and vibrant in New York City and across the state.
The voice of business and employers in New York State.
Congratulations to all the 2025 Women in Tourism honorees for their outstanding leadership and accomplishments
S T A R B R I G H T
F L O R A L D E S I G N
C O N G R A T U L A T E S A L L
O F T H E 2 0 2 5 W O M E N
I N T O U R I S M A W A R D
N O M I N E E S A N D
H O N O R E E S . W E A R E
P R O U D T O W O R K
A L O N G S I D E S U C H
E X E M P L A R Y
M E M B E R S O F T H E
H O S P I T A L I T Y A N D
T O U R I S M I N D U S T R Y .
Congratulations to all the 2025 Women In Tourism honorees for their outstanding leadership and accomplishments.
Congratulations to our very own
STEPHANIE LEE
We’re proud to celebrate you today — AND ALWAYS! who leads Group Sales Box Office with vision, spirit, and a steadfast commitment to Broadway and its audiences.
With love, JOHN and your friends at
NEW YORK CITY TOURISM + CONVENTIONS
CELEBRATES THE 2025 WOMEN IN TOURISM
HONOREES & NOMINEES
We are thrilled to celebrate the extraordinary women bein g recognized this year—especially our very own Nancy Mammana and Kim Wright. Your vision, passion and dedication help make NYC the vibrant, world-class destination we’re proud to call home.
Congratulations to Nicole McLean for being selected as an honoree in the Hotel General Manager category for the Women In Tourism Awards! Highgate is proud to celebrate this welldeserved honor, and looks forward to seeing Nicole continue to grow and lead in her extraordinary career
SHAPING THE FUTURE OF THE HOSPITALITY & TOURISM WORKFORCE
78 academies
14,948 students
16 states
NAF’s Academies of Hospitality & Tourism are developing a talent pipeline to fill the 1.9 million jobs* projected to be added to the leisure & hospitality industry. NAF’s Academy of Hospitality & Tourism curriculum features updated courses like Principles of Hospitality, Events, and Tourism. With a new unit on Artificial Intelligence launching this July, NAF’s design stays on the cutting edge of industry trends, ensuring the student experience to be in line with the current market needs.
NAF is where opportunity begins.
NAF APPROACH
NAF connects the classroom and workplace by integrating careerfocused curricula and real-world projects into the high school experience. Its rigorous program of study and outcomes-driven work-based learning framework builds future-ready skills that prepare students for success. Through close partnerships with post-secondary institutions, local businesses, and corporations, NAF academies open doors to opportunity, helping students build professional networks and pursue their aspirations. NAF’s design ignites a passion for learning while giving businesses a role in shaping America’s future workforce.
CONGRATULATIONS
TO
JULIE BOARDMAN, STEPHANIE LEE,
and all of the 2025 honorees on their immeasurable contributions to tourism in NYC.
From your friends at RPM
CONGRATULATIONS TO JULIE BOARDMAN, STEPHANIE LEE, AND
ALL OF THE OUTSTANDING WOMEN IN TOURISM HONOREES!
A
WOMAN-OWNED BROADWAY ADVERTISING AGENCY
Congratulations to Mary Murphy on this well deserved honor. We appreciate all the passion and work that you put into giving our guests a top tier NYC experience.
Thank You and Congrats!
Congratulations to the 2025 Women In Tourism Honorees
We recognize all the female leaders who make NYC a favorite tourist destination.
Anna Karnowski ATTRACTIONS
Jessica Drucker BIDS/GOVERNMENT AFFILIATED
Patti Golden CULTURAL ARTS MUSEUMS
Lek Kidkarndee HOTEL CONCIERGE
Monika Henry HOTEL GENRAL MANAGER
Marjorie Vaz HOTEL MANAGEMENT
Stephanie Fink MULTI-TENANT
2024 HONOREES
Brenda Breathnach NIGHTLIFE
Melba Wilson RESTAURANT OPERATIONS
Maria Monaco RETAIL
Janet Sanchez THEATER
Angela Wiggins TICKET DISTRIBUTION SERVICES
Kiara Di Paola TOUR GUIDE
Sandy Borowsky TOUR OPERATOR
Elizabeth Findlay TOURISM AD –AGENCY – PR
Luisa Mendoza TOURISM MARKETING
Kamala Browne TRANSPORTATION
Tracy Hyter-Suffern COMMUNITY SERVICE
Shelley Worrell UP AND COMER
Jennifer Ackerson LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
To a great team at Davler Media who made Women In Tourism possible:
Drew Davis
Dave Friedman
UHeather Gambaro
Sheri Lapidus
Gri n Miller
Vincent Timpone
Wendy Ti el
Ray Winn
Ethan Wol
You are the best. Thanks for all you do!
David