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LEADERSHIP AND GOVERNANCE

As the world’s premiere association of travel advisors, ASTA relies on member-elected officers and paid staff to set policy and carry out our missions. Volunteers play a large role in every area, from advocacy to public relations.

Regional Director Candidates

Northeast Regional Director: Ann Lewis

Southeast Regional Director: Shelly Phillips

Northeast Regional Director Candidate



Contact Information

Name: Ann Lewis
Title: Owner/Travel Advisor
Agency Name: Just Travel NYC

E-mail: [email protected]

Candidate Statement

Dear Chapter Presidents,

I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for the position of ASTA Regional Northeast Director. As the current President of the Long Island Chapter, I understand the importance of effective leadership and support for the chapter presidents within our region. I am confident that my experience, dedication, and passion for the travel industry make me the ideal candidate to fulfill this responsibility.

I am excited to share my vision for the role of ASTA Regional Northeast Director, particularly regarding fostering communication and collaboration among chapter presidents and members within our region.

If elected, I plan to prioritize regular meetings with the chapter presidents, aiming to meet with them every quarter. These meetings will provide an opportunity to discuss important updates, share best practices, and address any concerns or challenges they may be facing. By maintaining open lines of communication, we can ensure that the chapter presidents have the support they need to effectively lead their chapters and serve their members.

I believe that strong communication and open dialogue are essential for effective leadership. I will establish regular communication channels with the chapter presidents, ensuring that their voices are heard, and their concerns are addressed. I will actively seek their input and feedback on important decisions and initiatives, and work collaboratively to develop strategies and solutions that benefit all members within our region.

In addition to the chapter president meetings, I believe it is crucial to facilitate broader engagement among all chapter members within the Northeast region. To achieve this, I propose organizing Northeast Region Meetings that bring together members from all chapters. These meetings will serve as a platform for networking,

knowledge-sharing, and collaboration. They will also provide an opportunity for members to learn from industry experts, participate in interactive workshops, and stay updated on the latest trends and developments in the travel industry.

The Northeast Region Meetings will be designed to foster a sense of community and unity among ASTA members within our region. They will serve as a valuable forum for members to connect with their peers, exchange ideas, and build relationships. Additionally, these meetings will enable members to leverage the collective knowledge and experiences of their fellow travel advisors, ultimately enhancing their own professional growth and success.

I firmly believe that by facilitating regular meetings with chapter presidents and organizing Northeast Region Meetings, we can create a strong and vibrant community within the Northeast region. These initiatives will not only strengthen the bonds among ASTA members, but also provide a platform for collaboration, innovation, and advocacy.

As ASTA Regional Northeast Director, it will be my priority to ensure that these meetings are well-organized, informative, and engaging. I will work closely with the chapter presidents, ASTA staff, and industry partners to develop compelling agendas, secure expert speakers, and provide valuable resources for all attendees. I will actively seek feedback and input from members to ensure that the meetings address their specific needs and interests.

Furthermore, I recognize the importance of professional development for both chapter presidents and their members. I will work closely with the ASTA Education and Training department to ensure that our region offers a wide range of educational programs, workshops, and certifications to enhance the knowledge and skills of our members. I will also encourage collaboration and knowledge-sharing among the chapters, facilitating the exchange of best practices and innovative ideas.

In conclusion, I am committed to fostering communication and collaboration among chapter presidents and members within the Northeast region. By organizing regular meetings and creating opportunities for engagement, I believe we can build a strong and united community that thrives on shared knowledge, experiences, and camaraderie. I humbly ask for your support and vote in the upcoming election.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Ann Lewis

 

Southeast Regional Director Candidate


Contact Information

Name: Shelly Phillips
Title: Agency Owner and Senior Advisor
Agency Name: Travel By That Girl

E-mail: [email protected]

Candidate Statement

Click for Shelly's video statement

Hello, I’m Shelly Phillips, and I am honored to announce my candidacy for the Southeast Regional Director. For over a decade, I have been privileged to serve as a dedicated travel agency owner, navigating the ever-evolving landscape of our industry with passion and commitment. I have been a steadfast member of ASTA since day one and my path has been intertwined with a commitment to our industry's advancement. Proudly affiliated with Travel Leaders and esteemed membership in the Luxury Leaders Alliance, my journey has been punctuated by moments of recognition, each emblematic of the dedication I bring to our shared cause.

From being honored with the ASTA Extra Mile Award in 2015 to assuming leadership roles as Vice-President of the Southeast Chapter and President of the Alabama ASTA Chapter, my path has been one of advocacy and dedication. Notably, the Alabama Chapter's recognition with the ASTA Advocacy Award in 2019 and my personal distinction as Chapter President of the Year in 2022 highlight my dedication to fostering excellence within our Chapters. In 2023, I was elected to the Southeast Regional Director position, filling the vacancy left by our friend Eddie Woodham. Throughout my tenure, my driving force has been a profound belief in the power of grassroots initiatives and the pivotal role of Chapters in shaping ASTA's trajectory.

Beyond the realms of ASTA, my engagement extends to the Bessemer Junior Service League, where I've held every office, including the presidency, exemplifying my dedication to community service; I have been on the Board of my Homeowners Association for 19 years and I volunteer in my area’s local schools for everything from Career Day to scholarship committees. With over three decades of diverse business experience, including ownership of restaurants, I bring a wealth of knowledge to the table. As Southeast Regional Director, my foremost priority is to fortify and elevate our Chapters, empowering them to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to ASTA's overarching mission.

Your vote means more than just support for me – it's an investment in your own future and the future of our industry. I am deeply grateful for your consideration and support, and I look forward to the opportunity to serve you as Southeast Regional Director.

With warmth and gratitude,

Shelly Phillips

 

 

American Society of Travel Advisors

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