Woot! Congrats to these hard-working friends of the industry for their well-deserved recognition in Destinations International Hall of Fame 2026. Recipients will be honored during a recognition ceremony at Destinations International Annual Convention in Portland, Oregon on July 21, 2026.

The Hall of Fame was launched in 2014 during Destinations International’s 100th Anniversary to recognize individuals who have changed the future of destination leadership for the better. These individuals have made significant contributions to the advancement of the industry and helped shape travel marketing and destination stewardship. It is the highest honor Destinations International bestows on industry leaders, pioneers, advocates and champions.

This year’s honorees:

Jack Berry, Former President & CEO, Visit Richmond VA
Virginia Haley, CDME, Former President, Visit Sarasota County
Tracy Kimberlin, CDME, Former President & CEO, Visit Springfield
Ernest Wooden Jr., Former President & CEO, Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board

Destinations International 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 honoree:

Amir Eylon, President & CEO, Partner, Longwoods International

Destination Organization Leadership Award was created in 2017 and is among the association’s most prestigious honors, recognizing outstanding individuals who, through exceptional leadership, service and achievements, have made a significant impact on the destination organization industry and the communities they serve.

This year’s honorees:

Susan Freeman, Executive Director, Meet Prince Edward Island
Maura Gast, Executive Director, Visit Irving Texas
Dave Herrell, President & CEO, Visit Quad Cities
Melvin Tennant, President & CEO, Meet Minneapolis

Press release here.