2025 Annual Report: Association

DESTINATIONS INTERNATIONAL & DESTINATIONS INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION 2025 AWARD HONOREES

Since 2014, the Destinations International Hall of Fame has honored visionary leaders whose innovation, leadership and lasting contributions have shaped and advanced the destination industry. As our highest honor, it recognizes individuals whose impact continues to influence destination organizations and travel promotion around the world.

The Destination Organization Leadership Award recognizes outstanding leaders whose vision, innovation and leadership have made significant contributions to the destination industry and the communities they serve. Honorees are recognized for excellence in organizational leadership, strategy and advancing the destination marketing profession. This year’s awardees:

Fáilte Ireland, Dublin, Ireland

The Destination Organization Award for Global Impact honors destination organizations whose innovation, leadership and community impact have influenced the global destination industry. This award recognizes scalable ideas, forward-thinking strategies and meaningful contributions that advance destinations and communities around the world.

This year’s honorees: Industry Contributor

 Isabel Hill, Former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism and Director of the National Travel and Tourism Office at the U.S. Department of Commerce

Marlyss Auster, President & CEO, Visit Ventura

GLOBAL AMBASSADOR AWARD Lyn Lewis Smith, Business Events Sydney

Domenic Bravo, CDME, CEO, Visit Cheyenne

Modern Era

The Destinations International’s Global Ambassador Award celebrates professionals in destination management who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation on the global stage. Presented annually at IMEX Frankfurt, this prestigious recognition is bestowed upon individuals within Destinations International’s global community who have not only transformed their destinations but have also significantly impacted their organizations and the travel and tourism industry at large.

Jack Wert, FCDME, Former Executive Director, Naples/Marco Island/Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau

Al Hutchinson, President & CEO, Visit Baltimore

Viv Isley, President & CEO Explore Asheville

Paul Arrigo, CDME, Former President & CEO, Visit Baton Rouge

Stephen Perry, Former President & CEO, New Orleans & Company

SearchWide Global

The Spirit of Hospitality Award is the highest recognition presented annually by the Foundation to individuals and organizations that show exceptional dedication and commitment to the travel and tourism industry.

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