Editor's Note: The original article announcing our new advisory board was published in January 2023. We updated this article to include the addition of our newest board member, Omar Banihani of the Jordan Tourism Board.
We are proud to introduce TravelAge West’s new advisory board, with additions comprising 10 travel advisors and six suppliers based across the U.S. (including one returning board member).
Board members, who were hand-picked by the editorial staff, will serve a three-year term and will meet as a group two to three times per year. Over the course of their term, they will serve as ambassadors to the brand, aiding the TravelAge West team in content development and brand strategy.
“We’re excited to welcome this new group of industry colleagues to our Advisory Board,” said Kenneth Shapiro, Vice President/Publisher, Editor-in-Chief of TravelAge West. “The advisory board will help direct the content of TravelAge West, keep the editors up to date on the latest trends they’re seeing, provide commentary and quotes on stories when needed and champion the brand within the industry. Their expertise is invaluable, and I’m excited to begin working with them in the coming months.”
The new members represent nearly every facet of the industry, from destination, cruise, river cruise, tour and public relations partners to host agency representatives, owners and managers and independent contractors.
“It's an incredible honor to be part of the advisory board for such a respected news publication in the travel industry,” said board member Theresa Chu-Bermudez, owner and travel designer at Get Out! Custom Travels. “I'm looking forward to the opportunities to discuss trends in travel along with the future of the industry with my colleagues. I'm beyond excited to be part of the growth and evolution of the travel industry.”
“TravelAge West has always been a leader in providing innovative advisor support, known for content and programs that help advisors become more successful,” added board member Steve Born, chief marketing officer for the Globus Family of Brands. There’s no question that the collection of industry leaders gathered here by TravelAge West will embrace that cause, and will be inspired by the collective energy of the group. I’m honored to be a part of this board and excited to help uncover new growth.”
“I am honored to join the Advisory Board and collaborate with this esteemed group of industry leaders," said Omar Banihani, marketing director for the Jordan Tourism Board. "As both a dedicated reader and contributor to this publication, I’m thrilled to bring an international destination perspective to the group. I look forward to sharing insights and helping shape the future of travel content.”
The TravelAge West Advisory Board Includes:
Susie Albin-Najera, Los Cabos Tourism Board
Omar Banihani, Jordan Tourism Board
Steve Born, Globus Family of Brands
Michael Brooks, Protravel International
Heather Christopher, Heather Christopher Travel
Theresa Chu-Bermudez, Get Out! Custom Travels
Marisa Costa, Amiko
Laura Davidson, Laura Davidson Public Relations
John Diorio, Virgin Voyages
Jazzmine Douse, AmaWaterways
Danny Genung, Harr Travel
Steven Gould, Travel Advisor Resource Center
Mallory B. Jones, You Deserve It! Vacations
Jenn Lee, Vacation Planners
Doris Reiss, TravelStore
Suzy Schreiner, Azure Blue Vacations
Find the complete list of board members’ names and companies on the masthead of each TravelAge West print issue.
