DI Announces Keynote Speakers for Annual Convention
Also Introducing New Learner Format
By Jonathan Trager
Destinations International (DI) announced on June 4 the 2026 inductees into its Hall of Fame and the recipients of the Destination Organization Leadership Award, Spirit of Hospitality Award, and Destination Organization Award for Global Impact, recognizing leaders whose work has helped shape the global travel and tourism industry.
All honorees will be recognized during a ceremony on June 21 at the association’s Annual Convention in Portland, Oregon.
“On behalf of the Destinations International Awards Committee, we are delighted to congratulate this year’s recipients on this well-deserved recognition,” said Committee Co-Chairs Tammy Canavan, FCDME, President & CEO of Visit Seattle, and Cleo Battle, CDME, President & CEO of Louisville Tourism. “These distinguished leaders and organizations exemplify excellence, innovation and service. Their accomplishments continue to inspire our industry and demonstrate the positive impact destination organizations can have on their communities and visitors alike.”
The DI Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose careers in the industry have had a lasting impact on destination marketing, tourism development, and community engagement. The 2026 Hall of Fame inductees are Jack Berry, former president & CEO, Visit Richmond VA; Virginia Haley, CDME, former president, Visit Sarasota County; Tracy Kimberlin, CDME, former president & CEO, Visit Springfield; and Ernest Wooden Jr., former president & CEO, Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board.
The Destination Organization Leadership Award honors an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and contributed significantly to the advancement of destination organizations and the broader travel sector. The recipients of the 2026 Destination Organization Leadership Award are Susan Freeman, Executive Director, Meet Prince Edward Island (PEI); Maura Gast, FCDME, Executive Director, Visit Irving Texas; Dave Herrell, CTA, President & CEO, Visit Quad Cities; and Melvin Tennant, CAE, President & CEO, Meet Minneapolis.
The DI Foundation’s highest honor, the Spirit of Hospitality Award, is presented annually to individuals who demonstrate extraordinary commitment to the foundation, the association, and the broader travel and tourism industry. This year’s recipient is Amir Eylon, President & CEO of Longwoods International.
The Destination Organization Award for Global Impact recognizes destination organizations that have made a significant impact on the global destination industry through exceptional leadership, innovation and service to their communities. The 2026 recipient is the Greater Medellín CVB in Colombia.
“It is a true privilege to honor these extraordinary leaders and organizations whose dedication and achievements have strengthened their destinations and advanced our industry around the world,” said Don Welsh, president & CEO of Destinations International. “Their vision, innovation and commitment to service have helped shape the future of destination leadership. We are proud to recognize their lasting contributions and grateful to the Destinations International Awards Committee for its thoughtful work in selecting this year’s honorees.”
“Their vision, dedication and leadership have helped shape the future of destination organizations and inspired generations of professionals.”
Destinations International said the awards recognize not only professional achievement but also efforts to foster collaboration, mentorship and innovation across the industry.
The organization noted that destination organizations play an increasingly important role in supporting local economies, attracting meetings and events, promoting sustainable tourism and enhancing quality of life for residents.
“It is a true privilege to honor these extraordinary leaders and organizations whose dedication and achievements have strengthened their destinations and advanced our industry around the world,” said Don Welsh, President & CEO of DI. “Their vision, innovation, and commitment to service have helped shape the future of destination leadership. We are proud to recognize their lasting contributions and grateful to the Destinations International Awards Committee for its thoughtful work in selecting this year’s honorees.”
Find more information about the annual convention and register here.