In wake of a reduction from $100 million to $20 million federal matching funds in the Reconciliation Bill, Brand USA is pushing forward in marketing the United States.
U.S. Travel Association is pushing hard to restore proper funding for the nation’s DMO.
Both organizations have pointed to President Donald Trump’s FY26 budget requesting full funding for
Brand USA.
Fred Dixon, President and CEO, Brand USA said: “While we are disappointed with the reduction from $100 million to $20 million in federal matching funds in Congress’ budget reconciliation bill, Brand USA remains committed to our mission and looks forward to opportunities for funding restoration in the future.
“In the meantime, we remain fully engaged and in deep dialogue with every level of the administration. We take
NCBMP Launches George Turner Scholars Academic Curriculum
By Todd McElwee
Seeking to prepare the next generation of hospitality leaders, the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP) announced the launch of the George Turner Scholars Academic Curriculum on July 9. The 10-week program is designed to prepare college juniors and seniors for premier roles in the events and hospitality industry.
confidence in the President’s request for Brand USA’s full funding in FY26 and look forward to Congress taking up those appropriations later this fall.”
Dixon added the reduction will require a significant recalibration of resources and programming that is still to be determined, but that the staff remains focused on growing legitimate international inbound travel and the vital boost it provides to the U.S. economy, especially with Please turn to page 3
JULY 14, 2025
Associations Respond to Texas Flooding, Camp Disaster
By Jordan Bradley
Flash flooding that devastated Central Texas on July 4 has left 119 people dead and at least 173 still missing as of July 10.
One location garnering extensive attention in the aftermath of the flooding is Camp Mystic, an all-girls summer camp that has been in operation since 1926.
“Camp Mystic is grieving the loss of 27 campers and counselors following the catastrophic flooding on the Guadalupe River. Our hearts are broken alongside our families that are enduring this unimaginable tragedy. We are praying for them constantly,” reads a statement on the camp’s website. “We have been in communication with local and state authorities who are tirelessly deploying extensive resources to search for our missing girls. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support from community, first responders, and officials at every level.”
According to reports from The Weather Channel, five Camp Mystic campers and one counselor were still
DI Sets Attendance Record for Annual Convention
Keynoter Justin Wren Fights for “The Forgotten”
“The intent of this strategic effort aligns with our 42nd Annual conference theme and the board mandate to Empower, Innovate and Act,” said Jason Dunn, CEO of NCBMP. “Our focus is to help students build professional skills while honoring the cultural and social roots of our industry. It’s about education, representation, and empowerment.”
Visit Dallas is partnering with NCBMP on the
The program will officially launch in July, a few months before NCBMP’s 42nd Annual National Conference in Portland, Oregon, November 19–22.
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Blackstone to Acquire Florida’s Sunseeker Resort for $200M
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Deborah Ward, Visit Omaha Executive Director, to Retire
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AHLA and AAHOA Applaud
Passage of Trump Bill
Page 6
By Jonathan Trager
Destinations International (DI) set a record for attendance at this year’s Annual Convention, drawing about 2,020 total attendees from 27 countries and territories, the association announced.
At the Opening at Chicago’s McCormick Place on July 10, DI President & CEO Don Welsh added that 593 attendees were attending the convention for the first time.
Welsh announced that the DI Foundation has pledged
$5,000 for Texas flood relief efforts, with Visit Asheville in North Carolina providing matching funds.
“This industry is about family, community, passion, and love,” said Welsh. “When one community is hurting, we’re all hurting.”
Welsh recalled that in 2016 when he took the helm of the association, it was “hanging on by a thread,” facing major financial difficulties. Not long after that situation stabilized a couple of years later, the COVID-19
Destinations International honored Searchwide Global with the Spirit of Hospitality Award at the association’s Annual Convention on July 9. Pictured here are DI officials with Mike Gamble (front center, grey jacket), President & CEO of Searchwide Global, and his team.
By Todd McElwee
MPI’s World Education Congress (WEC) is coming to Tampa. The association is partnering with Visit Tampa Bay and the Tampa Convention Center (TCC) to stage its signature event in June 2030.
Santiago C. Corrada, President & CEO of Visit Tampa Bay, said: “We’re delighted Tampa Bay is the 2030 home for MPI’s flagship conference. This decision signifies Tampa, along with its world class award-winning facilities and customer service, have made a lasting impression with the meeting industry’s largest professional organization. We look forward to working with MPI to make the 2030 WEC a wildly successful event.”
MPI’s WEC regularly attracts roughly 2,500 attendees. St. Louis hosted in June.
MPI Selects Tampa as 2030 WEC Host
“WEC is where our industry’s brightest minds gather to shape what’s next,” said Colleen Connor, Senior Director of Events of MPI. “Tampa Bay stood out not only for its energy and hospitality, but for its commitment to accessibility. We’re proud to host WEC 2030 in a destination that makes it easier for everyone to connect and participate.”
Derek Enos is President-Elect of MPI’s Tampa Bay Area Chapter.
“We are extremely excited that Tampa Bay was selected as the host for MPI WEC 2030,” Enos said. “This is the ideal opportunity to showcase our amazing destination that continues to grow year after year. Tampa is a premier destination for all things meeting related and we are looking forward to welcoming some of the best meeting professionals across the globe!”
David Ingram, TCC Executive Director, added the building’s award-winning team is ready to provide an
unforgettable event and showcase why the facility has been recognized as the best in the region.
Blackstone to Acquire Florida’s Sunseeker Resort for $200M
By Jordan Bradley
The Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor on the Gulf Coast of Florida has been sold to Blackstone for $200 million, owner Allegiant Travel Company announced on July 7.
The 785-room resort has reportedly underperformed since its grand opening on December 15, 2023 and its sale to Blackstone is at a significant loss from the $720 million it cost to build the 22-acre property, the Wall Street Journal reported.
The property offers multiple food and beverage outlets, two pools, a spa, fitness center, a rooftop adult pool and bar, a championship golf course, and more than 60,000 square feet of indoor meeting space.
“The acquisition of this brand new, highly-amenitized resort demonstrates our strong conviction in hospitality and travel and the continued growth in group-oriented destinations,” said Scott Trebilco, Senior Managing Director at Blackstone. “Allegiant has built a fantastic property and we look forward to bringing our extensive experience with large scale resorts to Sunseeker.”
Plans for the Sunseeker Resort were first announced by Allegiant in 2017, and the initial groundbreaking was held in 2019. However, there were several delays – including the Covid-19 pandemic which delayed construction by 15 months, setbacks from Hurricane Ian in 2022 that caused $35 million in damages, according to the
Journal, and other damages related to Hurricanes Helene and Milton last year.
The Sunseeker Resort is Allegiant’s first venture into the hotel industry. Earlier this year during a February earnings call, Allegiant representatives said that the company would sell “at least” a majority stake in the property.
According to the Business Observer Florida , the property consistently dragged occupancy, “not topping 40% in any of the quarters” Allegiant reported. The publication also noted that nightly room rates were “relatively low.”
However, during an October 30, 2024, earnings call with investors, Micah Richins, President of Sunseeker Resorts, noted that the property
had seen an increase in group rooms booked for 2025 when compared to last year.
Allegiant officials are hopeful that the sale will help right the property’s trajectory.
“Blackstone’s extensive hospitality holdings and their execution capabilities make them the ideal counterparty for this transaction and also to help realize the full potential of Sunseeker Resort,” said Gregory C. Anderson, CEO at Allegiant. “Furthermore, it supports Allegiant’s strategy centered around the airline and we plan to use the proceeds from the sale to repay debt and strengthen our balance sheet.”
The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025.
Nine New Destinations Receive DMAP Accreditation, 63 Professionals Receive CDMEs
By Jonathan Trager
Destinations International (DI) announced on July 9 that nine destination organizations received new Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) accreditation.
Accreditation recognizes the commitment of these organizations to industry excellence and meeting the industry standard for performance and accountability of destination marketing organizations around the world. The announcement was made at Destinations International’s 2025 Annual Convention in Chicago.
“We are delighted to have these
destinations among our esteemed DMAP community,” said Don Welsh, President & CEO of DI. “Destination organizations have never been more vital to the economic vitality of their local communities, and this industry accreditation is a recognized benchmark of quality and performance. The DMAP Board is to be commended for their dedication to our industry and stewardship of this crucial program.”
The DMAP accreditation program requires a destination organization to successfully comply with a multitude of mandatory and voluntary standards such as governance, finance, human resources, sales, communications,
destination development, and research.
The newly accredited organizations include the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (Choctaw Country); Discover Gilbert; Explore Brookhaven; Explore Butte County; Explore Tualatin Valley; the Greater Medellin CVB; Martin County Office of Tourism; River Parishes Tourist Commission; and Visit Seattle, which earned accreditation with distinction for going beyond meeting the required standards.
DI also announced that 63 industry leaders earned the CDME designation in 2025.
“We congratulate the new recipi-
ents of the CDME credential, which represents the pinnacle of individual accomplishment in the tourism sector,” said Welsh. “These distinguished leaders have enhanced their professional expertise and prepared themselves to navigate the evolving challenges and competitive dynamics of our industry.”
The CDME program is the only industry certification program specifically designed for destination management professionals and is the tourism industry’s highest individual educational achievement.
For more information, visit destinationsinternational.org
HOTS Hippo-Hooray ... Internet sensation Moo Deng, a young pygmy hippo at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi, Thailand, celebrated her first birthday this month, drawing thousands of visitors. AP reports that by July 10, more than 12,000 people had visited the hippo and participated in her birthday celebrations. Fans of the adorable mammal flew from all over, including Texas and New York, and Malaysia. “Moo Deng is my happy pill, and she’s my energy pill, my curing pill. She’s my vitamin!” Thea Chavez from Houston, Texas told AP. The zoo held festivities throughout
USAE
Publisher & Executive Editor 1982 – 2021 Anne Daly Heller
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Publisher James Heller james@usaenews.com
Creative Director Diane Nichols dkn@usaenews.com
Managing Editor Jonathan Trager jon@usaenews.com
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Senior Vice President George Roman george@georgeromanmedia.com
HOTS HOTS
the week, and provided free entry to children under 12. According to the zoo’s director, Narongwit Chodchoy, the establishment saw a significant spike in visitors shortly after Moo Deng (which literally means “bouncy pork” in Thai and refers to a type of meatball).
“Moo Deng is a representative of all wild animals, and she helps everyone understand the roles of zoos,” said Narongwit in an interview with AP.
“She speaks for all nearly extinct animals, and turns people’s attention to their conservation.” HOTS wishes Moo Deng the hippest of birthday parties!
HOTS Message in a Bottle ... A message in a bottle traveled from Newfoundland’s Bell Island landed on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean 13 years after its launch, UPI reports.
Kate Gay of Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula was strolling the sandy seaside when she spotted a clear wine bottle with a sheet of paper rolled up inside. Gay collected the bottle and shared it with fellow members of Creative Ireland Neart na Macharaí, during a meeting later that evening. The group broke open the bottle to find that the note
inside was dated September 12, 2012 and describes a day trip to Bell Island taken by writers Brad and Anita. The letter included a phone number, which the group tried calling, but no one answered. On July 7, the Maharees Heritage and Conservation group posted it to Facebook, and Anita and Brad were found within hours. The post has since collected a number of stories of messages-in-bottles being found across the Atlantic. HOTS thinks this sounds delightful and is crafting their own message now!
Ritz-Carlton Chicago Turns 50 Plans
By Jordan Bradley
The iconic Chicago hotel with a perfect view of Lake Michigan, the Ritz-Carlton Chicago, turns 50 this year and has announced the Golden Anniversary campaign to mark the occasion.
“We are thrilled to celebrate 50 years of excellence and look forward to welcoming our guests to a year filled with golden moments,” said General Manager Peter Simonelli.
The year of “golden” celebrations includes curated experiences, culinary
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major global events like America250 and FIFA World Cup coming in 2026.
He thanked the industry for its “unwavering support of Brand USA throughout this entire process.”
Since Brand USA’s inception in 2010, U.S. Travel has been the public-private entity’s biggest champion. It’s consistently lobbied for funding with Brand USA also arguably the most prominent organization at IPW.
“U.S. Travel will continue to work toward restoring full Brand USA funding though FY26 appropriations,” the association said in a statement to USAE “It’s essential that we make clear the value of international travelers that
to Celebrate All Year
programming and events, like the “50 Years in Style” limited-time package, which honors Chicago’s vibrant spirit. The package includes champagne, dessert, a keepsake gift, valet parking, a food and beverage credit, and late checkout.
Throughout the year, the RitzCarlton Chicago will host a series of events, including menus and events at the property’s Torali restaurant, summertime celebrations in the hotel’s rooftop bar, and special spa packages.
“Our commitment to providing
Brand USA drives and the economic impact that comes with them—powering nearly one in 10 American jobs and spending an average of $4,000 per trip.”
Brand USA’s most recent financial report (October 1, 2023 – September 30, 2024) shows north of $347 million in total net assets. Liabilities came in at roughly $45 million. Salaries (general and administrative and program services) came in at $12.9 million. Cash and cash equivalents, end of year, was $61.7 million, up from $30.6 million in 2023. The FY2025 business plan includes a budget of $252 million with $224 million dedicated to marketing, $14 million in operations and $13 million in corporate affairs.
Speaking to USAE at his organization’s Annual Convention in Chicago,
exceptional service and luxurious experiences remains unwavering, and we are excited to share this milestone with our loyal guests and the community,” Simonelli said.
The 434-guest room Ritz-Carlton Chicago held its grand opening in 1975 and joined Marriott International’s Ritz-Carlton portfolio in 2015, following a $100 million renovation. The revitalization of the property brought upgrades to the iconic hotel’s public spaces, including expanding the fitness center complete with Navy Pier views.
Don Welsh, President & CEO, Destinations International said: “Brand USA for the past 15 years, if you look at it from any metric, the return on investment of both public and private money is there. Clearly, these are different times. I think it’s disappointing that in President Trump’s bill it was 100% funded at $100 million and, unfortunately, that didn’t get through the scrutiny of Congress.”
He added: “I think after talking with Fred Dixon, Geoff Freeman, and others there clearly is an appetite to do some supplemental funding, hopefully in 2025 or 2026. It may not immediately reach $100 million, but I think the Trump administration is beginning to have greater clarity, with all the other things on their plate, the value that Brand USA can bring.”
Indiana Fever star guard Caitlin Clark is featured on a mural, sponsored by Nike, at the JW Marriott in Indianapolis. The city is hosting the WNBA All-Star Game on July 19. Photo by Visit Indy.
Deborah Ward, Visit Omaha Executive Director, to Retire
By Jonathan Trager
Deborah Ward, Executive Director of Visit Omaha since 2020, has announced her retirement on July 31.
Ward joined the Nebraska organization in 2007 after a career as a broadcast journalist. She spent 26 years at Omaha’s CBS affiliate.
city grow,” said Ward. “In addition, and more importantly, I’ve been blessed to work alongside a lot of talented, intelligent and creative people who have helped me every step of the way.”
“Deborah has been an advocate and creative force for Omaha over the past 40 years.”
“I’m beyond grateful to have had two very fulfilling careers in my lifetime, one as a journalist asking questions, holding people accountable, and informing residents about Omaha, and the other allowed me to use that knowledge to promote and help the
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missing as of July 10.
The camp also asked that the public respect the privacy of camper families affected by the flood.
Camp Mystic is a member of the Camping Association for Mutual Progress (CAMP), according to the camp’s website. The webpage for the association provided flood resources for those impacted.
“To all of our impacted camps, you are in our thoughts every moment of the day,” a statement on the website reads. “C.A.M.P is here and ready to help in any way we can. A fund is currently being set up to allow C.A.M.P to directly help you all financially. We will continue to update this page with any resources available.”
Representatives from the association did not return USAE request for comment.
The American Camp Association (ACA) said that the flood is “among the most severe flooding disasters in recent camp history, and its scale has deeply shaken the camp community,” in a written statement to USAE
“Camps across the country work tirelessly to provide safe, enriching experiences, and our focus remains on supporting those affected during this incredibly difficult time,” said
continued from page 1 Scholarship initiative.
“We’re excited to partner with NCBMP to attract and educate future planners and industry leaders,”
Since taking the helm of Visit Omaha, Ward launched award-winning advertising and marketing campaigns that resulted in a 25% increase in visitation. She was the catalyst behind the OMAR the Troll statue under the Bob Kerrey Bridge, was instrumental in securing longterm funding for Visit Omaha by facilitating approval of a 10-year agreement between the city and county, and led
Henry DeHart, Interim President and CEO of the ACA. “This tragedy is a sobering reminder of the unpredictable forces of nature, and how the strength of the camp community will rally in compassion and unity when it matters most.”
While Camp Mystic was not a member of the Christian Camp and Conference Association (CCCA), the organization’s President & CEO Gregg Hunter noted that many camps in the same region of Texas Hill Country are members of the CCCA.
“There are no words that fully capture the depth of sorrow we feel. What happened at Camp Mystic is a tragedy that weighs heavily on every camp leader, counselor, and parent. We grieve with the families and staff, and we stand with the entire Mystic community as they walk through this unimaginable loss,” Hunter said.
The disaster is a stark reminder that camps are “stewards of young lives” as much as they are places that create “fun summer memories,” Hunter said.
The association said that it always recommends its member camps continually review their safety plans, “that includes rehearsing for medical emergencies, severe weather, and other critical incidents,” and cultivating relationships with local emergency service providers.
“What parents may not realize is
said Kevin Owens, Regional Director of Sales, Visit Dallas. “This program highlights the opportunities available in the events industry while honoring the legacy of those who helped shape it. These students are a key part of our future success.”
The asynchronous, cohort-based
the City of Omaha Hotel Stimulus Program that delivered millions of dollars in relief to Omaha hotels during the pandemic.
The city under Ward has celebrated record-breaking tourism numbers for the last three years in a row, according to Visit Omaha.
“Deborah has been an advocate and creative force for Omaha over the past 40 years,” said Mayor John W. Ewing, Jr. “She elevated how we market our city, built lasting partnerships and created real economic impact. Thanks to her leadership, more visitors than ever are discovering what makes Omaha special.”
Jasmyn Goodwin, Vice President of Marketing & Communications, will serve as Interim Executive Director of Visit Omaha.
that many camps are monitoring weather systems daily, coordinating with first responders, and briefing staff to ensure every team member knows how to act quickly and clearly in an emergency,” Hunter said. “This kind of preparation is not extra. It is part of how camps serve and protect the young people in their care.”
Hunter said that the association encourages member camps to “remember that our work is about people” and that safety should always be the first priority.
“In a crisis, technical response matters, and compassion follows. Communicate clearly. Be present with your staff, your campers, and their families,” Hunter said. “Also, I want to emphasize that this disaster in Kerr County, Texas, was truly historic and I think local camp leaders were working with the best information they were provided.”
Hunter said that camps should “take a hard look” at their emergency plans and “ask the uncomfortable questions” about staff and property preparedness for an extreme event. He also suggested that camps bring in an outside expert to assess potential risks “and help you create robust plans.”
For Hunter, the tragedy shines a light on the importance of camps in general as they “give kids the chance to unplug, to connect with nature, and to ask meaningful questions,”
course offers students hands-on training in event management while emphasizing equity, representation, and the cultural contributions of Black professionals and other underrepresented leaders in hospitality.
The program is based around industry-focused curriculum and will
and on the role that camp leadership plays in the stewardship of those young lives.
“This horrific disaster is also an opportunity to look at the incredible strength of camp leadership – adults who risked, and lost, their lives to save kids. Camp counselors – young adults – who also gave their lives to save their campers,” Hunter said. “This sacrificial service is at the heart of the Christian camp leader.”
In a July 4 post about the incident on social media, the Kerrville CVB said: “Today our community has been deeply impacted by the devastating flooding. Our thoughts are with all those affected - families, first responders and our neighbors.”
“Like so many of you, we’ve been heartbroken by the devastating floods that swept through Kerrville and the Texas Hill Country over the July 4th weekend,” said Paul Van Deventer, President & CEO of MPI “Our thoughts are with the families and communities forever changed — and especially with our friends and colleagues in the MPI Hill Country Chapter.”
Van Deventer also pointed to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund, American Red Cross – Central & South Texas, TEXSAR – Texas Search & Rescue, Mercy Chefs, and Kerrville Pets Alive organizations for those outside of the community interested in providing support.
explore the cultural and historical contributions of Black industry pioneers. Topics will include event planning, marketing, risk management, the exploration of soul food traditions and the Civil Rights Movement’s influence on hospitality, and profiles of industry
Deborah Ward
AHLA and AAHOA Applaud Passage of Trump Bill
By Jordan Bradley
The American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) and the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) have each released statements applauding the passage of H.R.1, also known as the One Big, Beautiful Bill for America, into law on July 4.
Although H.R.1 has been the topic of debate for several weeks, the two hotel associations lauded the bill’s potential to benefit small businesses, including independent hotel owners.
The bill provides targeted tax relief, which could provide lower tax burdens
By Todd McElwee
IAEE has opened registration for Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition 2025.
Houston’s George R. Brown Convention Center will host from December 8–10, with the association saying this year’s theme ONE EPIC EVENT highlights what makes the event the premier annual gathering for
and greater financial flexibility to small hotel businesses “when long-term planning,” creating incentives for reinvestment into their businesses, AAHOA said.
“The fact that this bill was signed into law on Independence Day is a timely reminder of the values that drive our members with opportunity, resilience, and the freedom to build something of your own,” said Laura Lee Blake, President and CEO of AAHOA.
“Strengthening America’s backbone—our nearly 20,000 members own over 60% of the hotels in the U.S.
and provide more than one million jobs,” Blake said. “This bill gives them the clarity to reinvest, the confidence to grow, and the ability to keep fueling the communities they proudly serve.”
According to AHLA’s President and CEO Rosanna Maietta, the bill is “a game-changer” for small businesses in many industries.
“For the past several months, AHLA and hoteliers from around the country have met with hundreds of members of Congress and administration officials to press the case for these provisions,” Maietta said. “We’re grateful to the lawmakers who heard
Expo! Expo! 2025 Registration Open
exhibitions and events professionals worldwide.
“Expo! Expo! truly empowers industry professionals to redefine success in epic ways,” said IAEE President & CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM. “This year’s program demonstrates how innovative approaches to education, networking and business development can transform not just individual careers, but entire events and orga-
nizations by putting exceptional show design into action.”
Expo! Expo! will feature an exhibition floor with 250 exhibitors across 70-plus categories of products, services and innovations, a full slate of education, networking and local experiences.
IAEE said Expo! Expo! 2025 will hone professional development by bringing education directly to the ex-
our voices and recognized the vital role our industry plays in growing and strengthening America’s economy.”
According to Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, the passage of the bill is “a landmark victory for America’s small businesses.” The Administration pointed to the bill’s preservation of the 199A small business deduction of 20% as an avenue of economic growth for the small business sector.
Both associations have pledged to continue to advocate for policies that promote economic growth and will benefit American hoteliers.
hibition floor through five specialized learning zones that demonstrates how attendees can integrate dynamic learning experiences into their own events. Marketing, sales and sponsorships, event design and operations, innovations and AI are all on the agenda.
IAEE is offering BE SMART early registration rates through October 17. Find more information at myexpoexpo.com
Family of 33 Survives Texas Flood on Hotel Roof
By Jordan Bradley
A large family on an annual vacation in Hunt, Texas survived the area’s flash flooding on July 4 on top of their hotel.
The 33 members of the Fry family were staying at the River Inn Resort along the Guadalupe River when it rose 25 feet in less than an hour in the middle of the night.
“This area has been very near and dear
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to our families for a long time,” said David Fry, a member of the family who spoke with local news outlet KPRC on July 7.
When the storm began in the early morning hours of July 4 and the river begin to rise, the resort’s general manager Scott Towery and his wife Connie – who have lived on property for five years – began knocking on doors, they told local news outlet KSAT.
Fry also began knocking on doors of
attempted suicide to his eventual rediscovery of purpose through service to those less fortunate.
the property’s 60 guest rooms, pulling Fry family members out of slumber to climb onto the roof after the roadway became too flooded to leave the resort.
According to reports, up to 50 people, including Fry and his 32 family members, escaped the flooding onto the roof of the Mill House, a two-story building on the River Inn property.
Towery said that guests used bed sheets like rescue ropes to help people
get on top of the roof. By dawn, the water had receded enough for guests to leave the property.
Phone calls to the River Inn Resort and Conference Center went unanswered and messages from USAE were not returned.
Towery told KSAT that an engineer will inspect the property before a decision is made about whether to close it or repair the damage and reopen. pandemic hit.
Over the last three years, however, the association has experienced significant growth, Welsh said. Today, it’s embracing “radical collaboration,” a term used by newly installed DI Chair Leslie Bruce, with other industry organizations and destination associations in other countries.
Welsh also noted that when it comes to organizational success, it’s important to have the right people, and the staff of DI has been completely rebuilt.
Keynote speaker Justin Wren then spoke about his journey from bullied child to highly accomplished wrestler and UFC fighter through his battle through OxyContin addiction and
“Purpose through service didn’t just make my life a little better, a little brighter,” Wren said. “Purpose through service changed me. And I know it will for you.”
His took him to the Pygmy people in the African rainforest, “The Forgotten.” They lived in abject squalor and lacking access to even basic needs such as clean water. Wren sought to help to drill water wells for the people, an effort that involved a lot of failure, but eventually they hit the underground aquafer and the wells multiplied, today numbering 98.
“I’m not asking people to uproot their lives and move to the rainforests to help the Pygmy people; frankly, they don’t want us all there anyways,” said Wren. “But what I will say, or remind us of today, is that we
Justin Wren gave the keynote talk during the Destinations International Annual Convention on July 10.
Earning arguably the most recognized credential in associations, 129 professionals recently received their Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential from the CAE Commission of ASAE.
The Spring 2025 class joins more than 4,500 worldwide designees and will be honored along with the December 2024 class during the ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition in Los Angeles, August 9–12.
The Spring 2025 class of CAEs
successfully completed the CAE examination in May.
“Congratulations to the newest class of CAEs! This milestone is a testament to your dedication, expertise, and commitment to advancing the profession,” said TJ Coté, MBA, CAE, Chair of the CAE Commission and President and CEO of NextGen Association Management. “By earning the CAE credential, you join a community of leaders who are driving meaningful impact in associations and the industries they support.”
ASAE said the CAE Program elevates professional standards, enhances performance, and designates those who have acquired and demonstrated the knowledge essential to the practice of association management. The initiative is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
CAE eligibility requirements include five years of experience at the staff level or one year as a chief staff executive or C-suite-level executive at a qualifying organization; current employment by a qualifying organization or having
been employed by one within the last five years; holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, or in lieu of a degree, eight additional years of professional work experience; a commitment to upholding the ASAE Standards of Conduct and no felony convictions related to association management; and completion of 100 hours of broad-based qualifying professional development within the last five years preceding the application submission.
Find the complete Spring 2025 Class at asaecenter.org
Destinations International Releases 2025 DestinationNEXT Futures Study
By Jonathan Trager
New research reveals an increased integration into destination strategies of technological innovation and funding advocacy, according to the 2025 DestinationNEXT Futures Study announced on July 10.
The study, which is conducted every two years and funded by the DI Foundation, “provides critical insights into the rapidly evolving landscape of destination management and offers actionable strategies for global destination organizations,” according to DI.
“This year’s study underscores the transformative period destination organizations are navigating, shaped by rapid technological advancements, geopolitical uncertainties, evolving traveler preferences and growing community expectations,” said Don Welsh, President & CEO of DI. “These findings serve
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icons
as Ezell A. Brown, Leah Chase, and Bennie L. Mims.
as essential guidance helping leaders to strategically adapt and thrive.”
Conducted by MMGY NextFactor, this year’s study identifies four core results and key findings viewed as critical to destination success:
• Funding Vulnerability and Advocacy: “42% of destination organizations foresee funding risks within three years,” emphasizing the need for proactive advocacy and innovative funding strategies such as Tourism Destination Marketing Districts.
• Expanded Organizational Roles: The research indicates that “84% of destination organizations are actively involved in destination development,” showcasing a shift towards broader community engagement, comprehensive strategic planning, and product development.
• Generative AI’s Impact on Destination Marketing: The report highlights
“This is more than a program, it’s a declaration that we belong in every corner of the events industry and are preparing our students to compete,” said Kevin Richardson, NCBMP
how “Generative AI is transforming destination marketing,” exemplified by Singapore Tourism Board’s “Made in Singapore” campaign, which leverages AI for personalized storytelling.
• Redefinition of Success Metrics: Increasingly, organizations are adopting multidimensional performance indicators focused on resident sentiment, community well-being, environmental sustainability, and inclusivity, exemplified by Canada’s Tourism Wealth & Wellbeing Index.
The 2025 study also outlines eight strategic themes it says are essential for navigating the future, including securing investment through proactive advocacy, navigating economic and geopolitical uncertainties, scaling organizational capacity and community engagement, and shaping inclusive, prosperous, and accessible destinations.
“We are proud to support research
Board Chairman. “The program is spearheaded by a host of dedicated NCBMP members, including Board Member Travis Peterson and Director of Student Education Carmen Gaines,
that helps destination organizations understand and prepare for the future,” said Amir Eylon, Chair of the DI Foundation and President & CEO of Longwoods International. “By investing in studies like DestinationNEXT, the foundation continues to empower destinations by providing essential tools and insights to enhance their global competitiveness and community value.”
The DestinationNEXT Futures Study involved the work of a global advisory council of senior leaders from destination organizations and industry associations, five dedicated industry panels that conducted one-on-one interviews and small group discussions to gather qualitative insights, and a global survey of more than 530 respondents from 36 countries and territories.
The 2025 DestinationNEXT Futures Study is available at destinationsinternational.org
whose leadership ensures that the George Turner Scholars initiative equips students to enter the workforce with confidence and purpose.”
Find more at ncbmp.com
Destinations International recognized the 2025 class of 30 Under 30 honorees during the association’s Annual Convention on July 9. Pictured here are DI officials and the honorees.
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El Bandido Yankee Tequila is partnering with The Chicago Hotel Collection. A launch event is set for July 17 at the Library Bar inside the Ambassador Gold Coast Hotel. Shown here is Hockey Hall of Famer and El Bandido Yankee Tequila co-founder, Chris Chelios at the Ambassador Hotel. Photo by Kyle Sulkar.
