Honoring Women Who Create Great New York Tourism Experiences
David L. Miller – Davler Media/City Guide
Delta Air Lines
Liz Barrera, Regional Sales Manager - NY Agency Sales
Lilli Cooper – The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
SUSAN MCKENNA Bids – Government Affiliated
SUSAN MARENOFFZAUSNER Cultural Arts/ Museums
LOIDA DIAZ Hotel Concierge
SOFIA VANDAELE
Hotel General Manager
ANDREA PUIZINA
Hotel Management
ETTY SCAGLIA Nightlife/Restaurant
KATIE DALTON Technology & Ticketing Services
VICTORIA CAIRL Theater
MEGAN MAROD Co-Honoree Tour Guide
NIKKI PADILLA RIVERA Co-Honoree Tour Guide
SARAH PENNINGTON Tour Operator
HANNA LEE Tourism Ad Agency/PR
NATALIE HERNANDEZ Tourism Marketing
TARA HIPPENSTEEL Tourism Sales
YVONNE INSUSSARRY Travel Advisor
GABRIELLE NAPOLITANO
Community Service
NATALIA BELLAFLORES ZAYAS Up and Comer
CRISTYNE NICHOLAS
Lifetime Achievement
May 2026
Welcome to Women in Tourism 2026!
New York City tourism is proving again that it can deal with challenging circumstances, a credit to the people gathered in this room today. We are thrilled to come together to celebrate the accomplishments of the innovative, passionate, and dedicated women who lead the way in the city’s tourism industry.
A community that works together is one of the key ingredients to keeping NYC a top global destination. Davler Media appreciates the support that makes Women In Tourism possible, allowing us to celebrate a fifth anniversary this year. We thank our esteemed judges, who invested many hours in reviewing over 200 nominations for 130 outstanding women. We also thank Presenting Sponsor Delta Air Lines for their commitment to these awards and all the sponsors who help make it possible.
Women In Tourism also contributes to the future by establishing a scholarship for an NYC high school student from the NAF Academy of Hospitality & Tourism, which supports nearly 1,000 hospitality and tourism students in our city.
In 2026, attention around the world will focus on New York, and the city’s central role in America 250, Sail4th, and World Cup celebrations. We are confident in our ability to rise to the occasion thanks to the capability of the amazing women in the room today.
Tourism strong,
David L. Miller CEO
Dear Friends:
I am delighted to welcome everyone as Davler Media’s CityGuide hosts its fifth annual NYC Women in Tourism Awards luncheon.
New York’s tourism industry is a vital economic driver that serves millions of people from across the globe and provides thousands of good jobs including many union jobs to hardworking residents of the Big Apple. Our Administration is committed to strengthening businesses across the five boroughs, especially as we look forward to welcoming visitors for the 2026 FIFA World Cup We are incredibly grateful for the contributions of the diverse women who power our travel sector, and today I am pleased to join in recognizing leaders who are making a positive difference in a variety of important categories, among them hotels, restaurants, tour guides, travel agencies, marketing, technology and ticketing, museums and other attractions. I commend CityGuide for its efforts to shine a light on female trailblazers and offer scholarships to local high school students interested in pursuing hospitality careers My team and I look forward to the many ways everyone gathered will continue to grow our economy and enrich our cultural landscape as we unite to usher in an ambitious new era for the greatest city in the world.
On behalf of 8.5 million New Yorkers, congratulations to this year’s honorees and scholarship winner. Please accept my best wishes for an inspiring afternoon and further success.
Sincerely,
Zohran Kwame Mamdani Mayor
May 12, 2026
Dear Friends:
I am proud to offer my sincerest congratulations for the 2026 Women in Tourism Awards.
From hotels, to cultural institutions, dining, retail, and travel, women are the backbone of New York’s tourism industry and will be leading the way as tourism in our city continues to climb after the lows of the pandemic. Known for your excellent service and the unforgettable memories you help create, you convince people from all corners of the world to invest in New York.
And you yourselves are investing in the next generation of tourism professionals. Thanks to your generosity, a New York City high school student from NAF’s Academy of Hospitality and Tourism is receiving a scholarship to further their education. This is a wonderful tradition that you have established.
Additionally, congratulations to this year’s honorees, who are dedicated to creating and supporting a flourishing tourism industry: Susan McKenna, Susan Marenoff Zausner, Loida Diaz, Sofia Vandaele, Andrea Puizina, Etty Scaglia, Katie Dalton, Victoria Cairl, Megan Marod, Nikki Padilla Rivera, Sarah Pennington, Hanna Lee, Natalie Hernandez, Tara Hippensteel, Yvonne Insussarry, Gabrielle Napolitano, Natalia Bellaflores Zayas, and Cristyne Nicholas.
On behalf of the Borough of Manhattan, I wish every here today and all women in tourism across New York another year of success.
Sincerely yours,
Brad Hoylman-Sigal
We recognize all the female leaders who make NYC a favorite tourist destination.
Thank you for helping make New York one of the world’s favorite destinations.
Women In Tourism is proud to support young women (and some men) in their career advancement within the tourism industry. A scholarship has been established for NAF’s Academy of Hospitality and Tourism which serves nearly 1,000 hospitality and tourism students in NYC.
to our 2026 Scholarship Winner, Brianna Bain. She is a graduating senior at High School of Enterprise, Business & Technology.
Women In Tourism is proud to be hosting hospitality and tourism undergraduate and grad students from NYU’s Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality as the industry’s guests at the luncheon. The students will have the opportunity to network with 2026 honorees, nominees, and luncheon guests, as well as receive advice and testimonials about working in the industry.
ORGANIZATION
New York City Tourism + Conventions
Susan McKenna is Vice President of Trade Shows and Events at New York City Tourism + Conventions, where she leads the strategy and execution of more than 40 international and domestic trade shows and industry events each year. With over 15 years of experience, she is known for bringing people together through thoughtful event strategy, strong partnerships, and seamless execution. Susan works closely with colleagues, members, and industry partners to create opportunities that drive engagement, visibility, and revenue. She is particularly passionate about building meaningful connections across the tourism industry and developing innovative event experiences that support collaboration and longterm growth.
ORGANIZATION
Intrepid Museum
Susan Marenoff-Zausner became president of the Intrepid Museum in 2011, the first woman to hold the position. She has transformed Intrepid from a niche attraction into a globally recognized cultural and educational institution, increasing yearly attendance to over one million. Susan was instrumental in bringing the space shuttle Enterprise to the Museum, elevating the institution’s profile globally. Her commitment to education and accessibility has led to Intrepid’s award-winning STEM programs impacting over 100,000 youth annually. The Museum, under her stewardship, has been the recipient of numerous accolades. Personally, she has received several awards, including recognition from prestigious publications such as NY Business Journal, Politics NY and City & State.
ORGANIZATION
Trump International Hotel & Tower
New York
Loida Diaz is a highly accomplished and recognized Hotel Concierge in New York City with a career spanning over 25 years in the luxury hotel industry. She has been a fixture at the Trump International Hotel for over 19 years. Loida served on the New York City Association of Hotel Concierges (NYCAHC) Board of Directors since 2003, holding various leadership positions including Social Director, Membership Director, Public Relations, Vice President and serving three terms as President. During her presidency, she was instrumental in building the association’s funding program through corporate membership, leading to the establishment of the NYCAHC Crisis Fund to help members. She is also passionate about the concierge community, viewing concierges as ambassadors for New York City and their respective hotels.
ORGANIZATION
InterContinental New York Barclay
Sofia L. Vandaele is Regional Director of Operations, Luxury & Lifestyle in New York City, overseeing strategy and brand awareness for InterContinental New York Barclay, Kimpton Eventi, and Kimpton Ashbel. Originally from Belgium, she developed a passion for hospitality through her family’s restaurant, shaping her people-first leadership and commitment to #BarclayService. She studied Hotel Management in Brugge and began her career with Starwood in Brussels, advancing quickly into leadership roles across London, Paris, and New York. Since 2018, she has served as General Manager of The Barclay, leading 400 colleagues while driving performance, culture, and exceptional guest experiences.
ORGANIZATION
Sofitel New York
I am a dynamic global sales and marketing professional, who brings a unique blend of international experience and academic rigor to the hospitality industry. Holding a Master’s in Science of Communication from La Sapienza in Rome, my career spans five countries, enriching my understanding of global hospitality trends and practices from Rome-Italy, Kampala-Uganda, Punta Cana-DR and for the past 11 years in NYC. Fluent in English, Italian, Spanish, and Croatian, I navigate international markets to drive revenue and exceed expectations. My leadership as past President and current VP of Marketing for SITE Northeast underscores my commitment to the industry.
ORGANIZATION
Accent on Dining
Etty Scaglia, Founder and President of Accent On Dining, is a seasoned expert in the restaurant, hospitality, and tourism industries, with extensive hands-on experience in restaurant operations. She established the company with the vision of simplifying the group dining process for tour operators by eliminating the legwork and uncertainty often associated with restaurant bookings. Through direct partnerships with restaurants, she provides specialized training to align their services with the unique needs of the tourism industry, ensuring an enhanced experience for traveling guests. Etty extends this expertise to tourism organizations, corporate clients, and independent travelers (FITs), delivering tailored solutions that elevate dining experiences within the travel sector.
ORGANIZATION
Audience Rewards
Katie Dalton is President of Audience Rewards, Broadway’s Official Loyalty Program serving 3 million theatergoers. Over 15 years, she has led the company’s evolution from a startup into a leading marketing and technology platform driving more than $1 billion in ticket sales. During her tenure, Katie has forged partnerships with global brands, created high-impact fan experiences with notable celebrities, and led the organization through a major rebrand and technology transformation. She is a co-founder of The Broadway Women’s Alliance, co-chair of the Broadway League’s Sponsorships Committee, and a mentor and advocate for women in the arts.
ORGANIZATION
Table 7 Strategy
Victoria “Vic” Cairl has worked in the industry for over twenty years and brings her knowledge of advertising, marketing, sales, ticketing, and tourism to the table. She has held positions at Serino Coyne, TMG, Disney Theatrical, The Met Museum, Lincoln Center, and Show-Score. She has successfully run Table 7 independently since 2019.
ORGANIZATION
The Megan Daily
TOUR GUIDE CO-HONOREE
Megan Marod believes live tours should be an important part of every travel experience. A good local guide is your best friend, providing curated answers, sharing local customs and uncovering hidden gems; this turns an ordinary vacation into an extraordinary one. Her boutique tour company offers customized experiences to everyone from elementary school groups to European royalty. She advocates for increased accessibility and ADA awareness on tours. Megan is a beloved and respected NYC influencer and content creator. @ TheMeganDaily boasts 1 million followers across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. She is known for helpful travel guides, local recommendations, tourist tips, and her famous intro: “A New York City Secret I bet you didn’t know.”
Nikki Padilla Rivera
ORGANIZATION
She Shapes History NYC
Starting as a tour guide, Nikki has worked across the tourism industry worldwide; from operations and tour design to marketing and business development. She is co-owner and guide of She Shapes History NYC, celebrating the hidden history of women who built the city. By day, she leads brand and content strategy at WalksDevour while mentoring independent guides and creators through workshops and female-focused communities like Wanderful and wmnsWORK. She believes all tours can be better, and actively works to ensure she’s less frequently the only woman at the table for larger industry conversations.
ORGANIZATION
Classic Harbor Line
TOUR OPERATOR
Capt. Sarah Pennington is the Managing Director of Classic Harbor Line (CHL) - a fleet of 15 classically-inspired yachts and schooners providing sailing & sightseeing experiences in Boston, Newport, RI, New York City and Key West Florida. Her background, education and experience prior to CHL includes sailing instruction, Tall Ships and theater arts. Sarah is a Passenger Vessel Association (PVA) board member and an active member of the PVA Legislative Committee. She holds a USCG 100 Ton Masters - Auxiliary Sail License, a BA from the University of Iowa and an EMBA from Rutgers University. She lives in Leonia, New Jersey with her husband and three kids.
ORGANIZATION
Hanna Lee Communications
Hanna Lee is President and Founder of Hanna Lee Communications (HLC), an award-winning public relations agency specializing in luxury travel, hospitality and lifestyle. She represents missiondriven clients including leading hotels, restaurants and global drinks organizations. Guided by the motto “Think Like Journalists, Act Like Brand Ambassadors,” HLC builds brands across major U.S. and international markets. Hanna co-hosts the award-winning Hospitality Forward podcast and co-founded Worldwide Bartender Week, a global cocktail tourism initiative. She also serves as Chief Creative Officer of the Spirited Award-winning book The Japanese Art of the Cocktail. In her spare time, she enjoys photography, tango dancing and swimming.
ORGANIZATION
Elevate Your Hospitality Solution
Natalie Hernandez is a tourism and hospitality executive with 20+ years of experience driving partnerships, revenue growth, and distribution strategy across the travel and experiences industry. She has held leadership roles with Expedia Group, CitySightseeing New York, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, and Xplorie, where she served as Vice President of Partnerships. In 2026, she launched Elevate Your Hospitality Solution, a consulting firm that helps tour operators, attractions, rental companies, and hospitality businesses grow revenue, expand distribution, and improve operations. Natalie also serves as an Adjunct Professor and Board Member for Mercy University’s Women in Leadership Program.
ORGANIZATION
Formerly City Cruises
Tara Hippensteel is a seasoned tourism and hospitality professional who served 5 years as National Tourism Director for City Cruises, where she led a team focused on strategic partnerships and visitation through group travel trade channels. She brings over 17 years of experience with Hard Rock Cafe, where she managed restaurant sales, marketing initiatives, and primarily supported Tour & Travel programs. Known for building strong industry relationships, supporting student travel and creating impactful visitor experiences, Tara specializes in destination marketing, revenue growth, and collaborative tourism development, making her a trusted leader in the travel and hospitality space. Tara, recently engaged, is also proud mom to her cavapoo, Fozzie and an Auntie to 9 nieces & nephews.
ORGANIZATION
Altour/GTC
Yvonne was born in California and grew up in Argentina. Like many agents, her background was not in Travel (more like Ranching and then Banking), but once she dove in 30 years ago, there was no turning back, she had found her niche. Always an Independent Consultant, past agencies include Ultramar, Direct Travel, Advanced Travel and Altour (now GTC). Besides providing travel services to clients with help from her loyal team, her specialty is solving travel emergencies like Sept 11th. Clients include Corporate, Education, Fashion, Production. Her favorite motto, “get it right the first time but be prepared for changes”.
ORGANIZATION
Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce & Brooklyn Made Stores
Gabrielle “Gabby” Napolitano is the Director of Partnerships and Communications for the Brooklyn Made Stores at the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, where she connects visitors with Brooklyn’s creative economy through curated retail and cultural programming. She also supports the Chamber’s tourism platform, VisitBrooklyn.nyc, helping promote Brooklyn as a global destination for culture, design, and independent businesses. With more than 25 years of experience in marketing, retail, and event production, she builds partnerships that elevate local entrepreneurs and cultural institutions, including connecting Brooklyn businesses with audiences at Celebrate Brooklyn! Her latest project launched a Brooklyn–Tokyo cultural partnership with Taisho University. A fifth-generation Brooklyn native, she champions tourism that supports local businesses.
ORGANIZATION
Expedia
SPECIAL AWARDS
UP & COMER
Natalia Isabelle is a proud Puerto Rican, born and raised on the island. She often says she didn’t find the tourism industry, it found her. From her first trip abroad, she knew she wanted a career working with people from different backgrounds, learning from each other along the way. She has lived in cities like Washington, D.C., Boston, and Miami, but after four years in New York City, she knows it was always the place she needed to be. Her career spans Dish Network, EF Education First, GetYourGuide, and now Expedia Group as an Account Manager for Activities, where she partners with attractions to open doors so travelers from every background can see, feel, and fall in love with the unique magic of NYC!
Women In Tourism Awards recognizes individuals who create great visitor experiences and encourage collaborations in the tourism industry.
The Awards create a platform for companies and institutions to publicly honor accomplished women and help advance their careers.
Women In Tourism Awards presents hope that in the future there will be more females represented at the highest levels in tourism organizations.
This celebration sends a positive message within the industry, presents opportunities to network and build together.
As an industry we should honor our stars and take pride in the women who will help lead us towards future successes.
The Women In Tourism Awards honors women across diverse categories celebrating them at a luncheon. We look forward to seeing everyone on next year!
CEO, Nicholas & Lence Communications
Cristyne Nicholas, CEO co-founded Nicholas & Lence Communications with George Lence in 2007, a strategic public relations and government affairs firm known for helping individuals, businesses, not for profits and iconic NYC neighborhoods elevate their profiles. Prior to NLC, Nicholas was best known for rebuilding NYC’s $27 billion dollar tourism industry following the tragic events of September 11th, by launching the City’s first consumer TV advertising campaign, patriotic tourism initiatives and recruiting major events such as The World Economic Forum, The Grammy Awards, RNC 2004, Country Music Awards, and Super Bowl XLVIII. A former Mayoral press secretary and communications director, Cristyne was named 40 under 40 by Crain’s New York Business and Top 100 Women by City & State New York. In 2012, she was appointed Chair of the NYS Tourism Advisory Council and serves as the Chairman of the Broadway Association. She is the co-host of Radio Night Live on AM 970 The Answer. Although Cristyne has many titles, she is most proud to be called Mom by her three amazing teens.
Jennifer Ackerson is a NY certified women-owned small-business owner. For more than 25 years, Jennifer has demonstrated tireless dedication and passion for improving the relationships between travel industry buyers and sellers. Most notably, Jennifer has become a strong presence in the travel industry through the creation of a firstof-its-kind tourism education program, developing and leading both NYC Tourism + Conventions ‘Tourism Ready’ and the IITA ‘Inbound Insider Steps to Success’ national tourism training programs. She has touched thousands of tourism businesses and her experience in the industry enables her to offer creative solutions and help businesses successfully realize their tourism goals. “Tourism is the best job in the world! You get to have fun, travel the globe learning and exploring everyday, and giving back by serving people along the way.
President and Partner, Empire Force Events
A NYC Event Production, Hospitality & Tourism professional, leader, insider & champion. Owner of NYC’s longest independent & locally owned destination management company, only job worked at from college, then bought the company. Momentous honors: BizBash’s “Top 500 People in Events, Must-Know Events Pros, Most Influential Event Professionals & Influencers;” NYC Tourism + Conventions Board of Director; Lifetime Achievement Award, International Live Events Association (ILEA); 4 Halls of Fame/Legends, Meeting Professionals International NY, BizBash, ILEA NY, Event Solutions; Inaugural Woman of the Year – ILEA NY; Smart Women in Meeting – Visionary Award Winner. During pandemic – Live Events Coalition NY Co-Founder. Grew-up in Brooklyn on welfare, now lifelong respected industry caregiver & icon!
CEO, New York City 4 All and Kiariladyboss
Kiara, the dynamic force behind New York City 4 All and Kiariladyboss, leads a vibrant community of over 520,000 travelers. An award-winning creator, licensed NYC tour guide, and CEO, she has welcomed more than 11,000 visitors to the Big Apple since moving from Italy in 2012. With a background spanning three countries, Kiara blends storytelling, travel, and social impact—advocating for women, low-income and the homeless through volunteer work. Having explored 50+ countries, she curates immersive NYC walking tours, experiences and global group trips, inspiring others to live boldly, travel colorfully, and embrace authenticity beyond the beaten path.
Senior Director of Broadway Inbound, The Shubert Organization
Fueled by a passion for travel and the performing arts, Allison French has been bridging the global travel industry and live entertainment industry in New York City for more than 15 years. Allison is the Senior Director of Broadway Inbound, the division of The Shubert Organization responsible for the wholesale ticketing of live entertainment in New York City. She also directs the Broadway Collection marketing program, a global marketing and PR program that promotes a core group of shows to visitors in key tourism markets. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Student and Youth Travel Association (SYTA) - the premier professional trade association that promotes student and youth travel worldwide.
Assistant Chef Concierge, Omni Berkshire Hotel
With a distinguished 26-year career in luxury hospitality, Mary Gaffney-Murphy is the Assistant Chef Concierge at the Omni Berkshire Hotel, where she consistently delivers exceptional service. A passionate advocate for New York City, she delights in sharing its unique energy with guests. Mary has held prominent roles in the industry, including serving as President of the New York City Association of Hotel Concierges (NYCAHC). Her outstanding contributions have earned her prestigious honors such as Concierge of the Year and Community Service Award and the 2025 Women In Tourism award. A Co-Founder of the Concierge Choice Awards, she is also dedicated to giving back through her support of organizations like Dreams Come True, Pathhseo Inc., and Women In Need. Outside of her professional life, Mary enjoys the arts, dining, and community service activities.
Senior Manager of Marketing Services, MTA
Donna Haynes is a creative marketing leader recognized for building impactful tourism programs and partnerships. As Senior Manager, Marketing Services at the MTA, she supports Metro-North’s leisure travel initiatives across New York. She is best known for developing the Deals & Getaways program, which offered hundreds of discount travel packages and promotional offers. A 2021 NYC Women in Tourism honoree and NYC Destination Specialist (2023–25), Donna also serves on the New York State Tourism Interagency Task Force, helping shape statewide tourism strategies.
Manager, Global Accounts, HelmsBriscoe
Consuela D. Hooblal is a Manager, Global Accounts at HelmsBriscoe, with more than 20 years of experience and deep knowledge of the hospitality and global tourism sector. Her expertise encompasses managing the Greater New York area hotel market for USA TODAY, and overseeing largescale meetings, international, government, corporate, and cultural group business, honed during key tenures at The Roosevelt Hotel and as a Regional Sales Manager for USA TODAY and refined with HelmsBriscoe, the global leader in hotel site selection. A highly recognized industry leader, she is a recipient of 15 HSMAI’s Best of the Best awards, the President’s Award in 2018, and the USA TODAY Employee of the Year award. Consuela demonstrates her dedication to the industry as a Past President and current Board Member for The Greater New York Chapter of HSMAI (Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International).
and CEO of GTSE, Global Tourism Sports & Entertainment
Luisa is a trailblazer with over two decades of experience in global business development and marketing within the tourism and sports industries. As the official Sports and Tourism Ambassador for the U.S. Travel Association and IPW, Luisa fervently champions U.S. sports on a worldwide stage. Her innovative strategies have earned her prestigious accolades like the Microsoft Legacy Project’s Award, recognizing Luisa as one of the most influential, groundbreaking Hispanic Changemakers of our time. Her transformative journey from immigrant to successful entrepreneur not only impacts the US economy but also ignites hope and motivation to aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders globally.
Cindy VandenBosch President, Turnstile Tours & Studio
Cindy is passionate about elevating underrepresented stories and building community through inclusive, civic-minded experiences. She is the founder and president of Turnstile Tours & Studio, a Brooklynbased tour company and visitor experience consulting practice that she runs with her husband and a creative team. Since launching as a B Corp in 2012, Turnstile has served tens of thousands of visitors and consulted with more than 25 organizations, including Brooklyn Botanic Garden and Open House New York. Cindy is an accessibility specialist and has worked for over two decades to advance disability inclusion in the tourism and culture sectors. She received the 2022 Women in Tourism Award. She is learning ASL and enjoys the outdoors with her family.
Haley Ward Vice President, Sales, Hudson Yards Experiences
Haley Ward is Vice President of Sales for Hudson Yards Experiences at Related Companies. Since joining in 2018, she has led sales strategy, partnerships, and business development for the destination’s flagship attractions—Edge, Vessel, and City Climb. With over a decade of global sales expertise, Haley has advanced some of New York City’s most iconic institutions, including WICKED the Musical and The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
to our 2026 Emcee, Lilli Cooper from The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Claudia Abril – Quick Black Car Service
Lesly Alvarado – Triumph Hotels
Wendy Arimah Berot – Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning
Vaida Balciute – Emirates
Claudia Barragan – Five A Incentive Planners
Ruzwana Bashir – Peek Travel, Inc.
Cameron Bersh – Dig Inn
Courtenay Betts – EF Education First
Manuela Biondi – Per le Strade di NY
Natalie Bogan – Highgate Hotels
Erin Borger Powers – Peek Travel, Inc.
Kristen Bothwell – Rubenstein Communications
Rayna Bourke – NY Philharmonic
Savannah Boyd – The Iroquois New York
Michelle Cabot – Great Jones Distilling Co
Elsa Camacho – Hyatt Regency JFK at Resorts World
Suelyn Camchong – 9/11 Memorial & Museum
Monica Campian – Highgate Hotels
Rhonda Carges – Travel Alliance Partnership
Carianne Carleo-Evangelist – New York City Tourism + Conventions
Susanne Carter – The Lowell Hotel
Angela Cawley – John’s Pizza Times Square
Lisa Cecchini – Situation
Karen D. Taylor – While We Are Still Here
Heather Davis – Aimbridge
Melissa Delbuono – Travel Funders Network (TFN)
Peg Devany – Direct Travel
Meghan Doheny – Great Performances
Jennifer Fugina – Intrepid Museum
Marissa Gonzales – WICKED the Musical - Broadway
Vanessa Guadiana – Edge
Kezia Hartono – Hotel Edison / Triumph Hotels
Marsha-Ann Hay – Club Quarters Hotel World Trade Center
Mary Hilly – Highgate Hotels
Heather Hitchens – American Theatre Wing
Alana Hoye Barnaba – Ahoy New York Tours and Tasting LLC
Sara Joseph Noyes – BerlinRosen
Julie Kahn – Hard Rock Hotel New York
Julia Kellman – Residence Inn by Marriott World Trade Center
Hatsumi Komiya-Lee – The Plaza Hotel
Michelle Laboy-Cohen – Highgate Hotels
Susan Lee – Broadway Educational Alliance
Sylvia Leone – Stonebridge
Alexandra Levy – The Dinex Group
Rory Lipede – Telltale Tours
Olga Luz Tirado – O Communications
Sara Lyons – Tour Guide
Shanelle Mangold – Mēdüzā Mediterrania
Chantel Martinez – Hard Rock Cafe
Makiko Matsuda Healy – New York City Tourism + Conventions
Kristen McGovern – New York City Tourism + Conventions
Kati Meier – Medieval Times
Natasha Melesse – M Social Hotel Times SquareHighgate
Francesca Merlino – Hudson Yards Experiences
Erin Miller – On Location Tours
Susan Mirabito – Travel Network
Stephanie Montenegro – Club Wyndham 45
Suzana Morrialle – Faena New York
Laura Mulholland – Live Nation Special Events
Julie Mulligan – Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer
Mackenzie Nelson-Adams – SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Alessia Nencioni – Barefoot New York
Maureen O’Brien – Hyatt Regency JFK at Resorts World New York City
Geena Occhipinti – Trump International Hotel & Tower New York
Kelli Phillips – Triumph Hotels
Emma Pickard – The Plaza Hotel
Savannah Puran – Equinox Hotel
Claritza Quezada – Dream Downtown Hotel
Maria Ramos – Club Wyndham 45
Suzanne Reisman – Off the Beaten Subway Track
Walking Tours
Amy Rivetti – Triumph Hotels
Jennifer Sandella – The RAT NYC
Gabriele Sappok – Imagine PR
Kate Scopetti – MARS Tours & Travel
Karen Shiers – Parea Travel
Jahan Shojaei Merola – 11 Howard
Moriah Shtull – The Museum of Modern Art
Stacy Shuster – Wollman Rink
Catherine St. Paul – 11 Howard
Christina Stanton – Freelance
Ricki Stephens – Patina Restaurant Group
Sabina Szymanska – HeliNY
Li Tang – Ace Hotel Brooklyn
Dr. Camelia Tepelus – Morris Park Business Improvement District
Zaria Thuesday – New York City Tourism + Conventions
Rachel Tomasky – American Resort Management; Hyatt Place Long Island East End
Suzan Toprak – IHG Hotels & Resorts
Nicolette Vargas – tm:rw
Gisel Vidals – Ventrata
Veena Vohra – Fourwinds Tours and Travels
Marla Wax – Chase Travel Entertainment
Karen Wenger – The Plaza, a Fairmont Managed Hotel
Heather West – Disney Theatrical Group
Amanda Wierbowski – SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Renee Wilson – New York City Tourism + Conventions
Christine Witryk – Color Factory
Sheelagh Wylie – GoCity
Anastasiia Yureneva – Wyndham Midtown 45
Mariella Zuta – Marriott Marquis
BIDS/GOVERNMENT AFFILIATED
Kim Wright
CULTURAL ARTS/MUSEUMS
Stacey Hosang
HOTEL CONCIERGE
Mary Murphy
HOTEL GENERAL MANAGER
Nicole McLean
HOTEL MANAGEMENT
Gina DiGennaro
NIGHTLIFE
Erica Maurer
RESTAURANT
Chef Morgan Jarrett
RETAIL
Teresa Rodriguez
THEATER
Julie Boardman
TICKET & BOOKING SERVICES
Stephanie Lee
TOUR GUIDE
Monia Bonaldo
TOUR OPERATOR
Stacey Toussaint
TOURISM AD AGENCY/PR
Abby Endres
TOURISM MARKETING
Nancy Mammana
TOURISM SALES
Claire Chirouze-Ulloa
TRANSPORTATION
Claudia Soto
SPECIAL AWARDS COMMUNITY SERVICE
Alicia Pierro
UP AND COMER
Khianna Parks
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
Magaly Buitrago
2024
ATTRACTIONS
Anna Karnowski
BIDS/GOVERNMENT AFFILIATED
Jessica Drucker
CULTURAL ARTS—MUSEUMS
Patti Golden
HOTEL CONCIERGE
Lek Kidkarndee
HOTEL GENERAL MANAGER
Monika Henry
HOTEL MANAGEMENT
Marjorie Vaz
MULTI-TENANT
Stephanie Fink
NIGHTLIFE
Brenda Breathnach
RESTAURANT OPERATIONS
Melba Wilson
RETAIL
Maria Monaco
THEATER
Janet Sanchez
TICKET DISTRIBUTION SERVICES
Angela Wiggins
TOUR GUIDE
Kiara Di Paola
TOUR OPERATOR
Sandy Borowsky
TOURISM AD AGENCY/PR
Elizabeth Findlay
TOURISM MARKETING
Luisa Mendoza
TRANSPORTATION
Kamala Browne
SPECIAL AWARDS COMMUNITY SERVICE
Tracy Hyter-Suffern
UP AND COMER
Shelley Worrell
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
Jennifer Ackerson
ATTRACTIONS
Haley Ward
BIDS/GOVERNMENT AFFILIATED
Reagan Stulbaum
CULTURAL ARTS
Laval Bryant-Quigley
HOTEL CONCIERGE
Kathleen Nugent-Harris
HOTEL MANAGEMENT
Megan Ferguson
MEETING/EVENT PLANNER
Jaclyn Bernstein
MULTI-TENANT DESTINATIONS
Ellie Chamberland
NIGHTLIFE
Alli Torres
RESTAURANT OPERATIONS
Andrea Roman
RETAIL
Kristen Esposito
THEATER
Charlotte St. Martin
TOUR GUIDE
Susan Birnbaum
TOUR OPERATOR
Georgette Blau
TOURISM GENERAL
Debra Harris
TOURISM MARKETING
Laura Kleger
TRANSPORTATION
Blanca Espinosa
SPECIAL AWARDS UP AND COMER
Hayley Coriaty
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Lakshmee Lachhman-Persad
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
Christine Metivier
2022
ATTRACTIONS
Nastassia Welter
BIDS/GOVERNMENT AFFILIATED
Kelly Ann Curtin
CULTURAL ARTS/MUSEUMS
Carly McCloskey
HOTEL CONCIERGE
Josephine Danielson
HOTEL MANAGEMENT
Becky Hubbard
MEETING/EVENT PLANNER
Corrine Statia Thomas
NIGHTLIFE
Caroline Hirsch
RESTAURANT OPERATIONS
Joanne DeSantis
RESTAURANT OWNERSHIP
Ellen Hart Sturm
RETAIL
Julie Payne
THEATER
Allison French
TOUR GUIDE
Emma Guest-Consales
TOUR OPERATOR
Cindy VandenBosch
TOURISM
Kathie Stapleton
TRANSPORTATION
Donna Haynes
SPECIAL AWARDS UP AND COMER
Jasmine Gerald
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
Mary Farrell
As a proud sponsor of the 2026 Women in Tourism Awards,
State, Inc . congratulates all of the nominees and winners.
The Council is committed to developing and growing the tourism industry to help it remain viable and vibrant in New York City and across the state.
The voice of business and employers in New York State for over 100 years.
Congratulations TO ALL THE REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENTS OF WOMEN IN THE
Providing hospitality professionals for hotels, museums, and cultural institutions across New York.
hmgplus.com - team@hmgplus.com
Congratulations to the 2026 Women in Tourism nominees.
HMG+ is proud to celebrate the leaders, visionaries, and changemakers shaping the future of tourism in New York and beyond.
Your work strengthens experiences, inspires communities, and moves this industry forward with energy, creativity, and excellence.
As a hospitality staffing partner built on service, professionalism, and people, we know that every guest interaction—from arrival to experience— begins with the right people. We are honored to support an event that recognizes the women redefining what leadership in tourism looks like.
Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.
F L O RA L D E S I G N
C ONG RATULATE S AL L
O F T H E 2 0 2 6 W O M E N
I N T O UR I S M A W AR D
NO M I N EE S A N D
HONO REE S . W E AR E
P R O U D T O W O R K
AL ONG S I D E S UC H
EXE M P LAR Y
M E M BER S O F T H E
HO SP I TAL I T Y A N D
T O UR I S M I ND U S TR Y .
NEW YORK CITY TOURISM + CONVENTIONS
We are thrilled to celebrate the extraordinary women being recognized this year—especially our own Susan McKenna and our former President and CEO Cristyne Nicholas. Their vision, passion and dedication help make NYC the vibrant, world-class destination we are proud to call home.
We’re proud to celebrate Lifetime Achievement Award Honoree
Cristyne has spent her career elevating New York’s defining stories and giving voice to the people behind them. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor!
With love, JOHN and your friends at
doesn’t just happen behind a desk.
Congratulations to all of the incredibly talented Women in Tourism being honored today.
The Intrepid Museum team salutes President Susan Marenoff-Zausner on her well-deserved honor! Susan’s vision, passion and dedication to excellence has made the Museum a can’t miss global landmark and enriched New York City’s cultural landscape.
SUSAN MARENOFF-ZAUSNER President, Intrepid Museum
BE CURIOUS. BE INSPIRED. BE INTREPID.
www.nicholaslence.com
Caroline Hirsch and The New York Comedy Festival
Women In Tourism Contributes to Helping Future Generations of Women Succeed
Women In Tourism is proud to support young women (and some men) in their career advancement within the tourism industry. A scholarship was established for NAF’s Academy of Hospitality and Tourism which serves nearly 1,000 hospitality and tourism students in NYC. Additionally, college and graduate level tourism students from NYU will attend the luncheon as our guests to network with leaders and accomplished women being honored.
for being selected as an honoree in the Hotel Concierge category for the Women and Tourism Awards.
We are proud to celebrate this great accomplishment. k
to longtime Guides Association of NYC member Megan Marod for being honored by Women in Tourism in the
Guide
for 2026! To meet more inspiring professional licensed tour guides like Megan, visit www.ganyc.org
