Independent Advisor Director Candidates
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Name: Chandra Brown
Title: Owner/Advisor
Company Name: Cruise Planners – Global Travel Pros LLC
City, State: Williamsburg, VA
E-mail: Chandra.Brown@CruisePlanners.com
Dear Fellow ASTA Members,
My name is Chandra Brown, and I am honored to announce my candidacy for the position of Independent Advisor Director on the ASTA National Board of Directors. As an experienced travel advisor, agency owner, and dedicated ASTA member, I am deeply committed to advocating for independent travel advisors and ensuring our voices are heard at the national level.
My journey in the travel industry began in 2008. Like many, my start was as a part-time independent contractor. The Miami-based host agency I worked with provided invaluable insights into the dynamic landscape of travel, igniting a passion that would soon become my life's work.
In 2012, fueled by entrepreneurial spirit, I founded my own agency and transitioned to working in travel full-time. This leap followed a 23-year career as a senior director with a fortune 50 company – experience that instilled in me the principles of strategic planning, financial acumen, and effective communication, all of which are essential for leadership roles within ASTA.
In 2018, I took another step forward by purchasing a Cruise Planners franchise, a move that expanded my opportunities and deepened my involvement in the travel community. Today, as a top producing agency in our system, I proudly serve on the Cruise Planners Advisory Board, where I collaborate with fellow advisors and industry leaders to improve our business environment and advocate for the needs of franchise owners and independent advisors alike.
I have been an active ASTA member since 2016, initially joining through the Connecticut chapter. When I relocated to Williamsburg, Virginia, in 2019, I recognized a gap in ASTA’s presence in the region. Rather than accept the status quo, I took action—I founded the Hampton Roads Chapter to support and connect travel advisors in Eastern Virginia. Through this initiative, I have worked tirelessly to provide education, networking opportunities, and advocacy resources to advisors in my community.
Serving as an ASTA leader at the local level has given me firsthand experience in understanding the challenges and opportunities independent advisors face. I have worked to bridge the gap between advisors, suppliers, and industry stakeholders, ensuring that our collective needs are addressed and that independent travel professionals receive the recognition and support we deserve.
Why I Am the Right Choice
My candidacy is based on a clear understanding of the issues facing independent travel advisors today, coupled with a proven track record of leadership and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on our industry. I believe my unique blend of experience – as an independent contractor, agency owner, franchise owner, and chapter founder – equips me with the comprehensive perspective needed to effectively represent your interests on the ASTA National Board.
As independent advisors, we wear many hats. We are business owners, marketers, customer service professionals, and travel experts. We navigate supplier relationships, adapt to industry changes, and advocate for our clients—all while striving to build sustainable businesses. I understand these challenges because I have lived them.
If elected as Independent Advisor Director, I will focus on three key priorities:
- Advocacy & Representation: Independent advisors must have a strong, unified voice in the industry. I will work to ensure that ASTA continues to fight for our interests at the legislative and supplier levels. Whether it’s ensuring fair commission structures, protecting our ability to operate independently, or advocating for travel-friendly policies, I will be a relentless champion for our community.
- Education & Professional Growth: Success in travel requires continuous learning and adaptation. I will advocate for expanded educational resources, training programs, and mentorship opportunities tailored specifically to independent advisors. By equipping our members with the knowledge and tools to thrive, we strengthen our entire industry.
- Stronger Industry Partnerships: Independent advisors rely on strong supplier relationships and industry partnerships. I will work to foster collaborations that benefit our community, ensuring that independent travel advisors are valued, supported, and included in key industry discussions and decisions.
If elected, I pledge to be a responsive, accessible, and proactive representative of independent advisors on the ASTA National Board. I will listen to your concerns, amplify your voices, and work tirelessly to advance your interests. I am committed to transparency and will regularly communicate with you to provide updates on board activities and solicit your input on key issues.
I believe that my passion for the travel industry, my proven leadership experience, and my unwavering commitment to service make me the right choice for Independent Advisor Director. I am eager to work alongside you to shape a brighter future for ASTA and for the travel industry as a whole.
My Commitment to You
I am running for the ASTA National Board of Directors because I believe in the power of independent travel advisors. We are the heart of this industry, and we deserve a strong, dedicated advocate who understands our unique challenges and opportunities.
Your Vote Matters
I humbly ask for your vote and your support. Together, we can ensure the voices of independent advisors are heard loud and clear, and that ASTA remains a vibrant and relevant organization that empowers us to thrive in a dynamic and competitive marketplace. Thank you for your time, your consideration, and your dedication to the travel industry.
Name: Noelia Gisbert
Title: President/CEO
Company Name: Proficient Travel Inc
City, State: Miami, Florida
E-mail: noelia@proficienttravelinc.com
It would be an honor to be able to serve as an Independent Advisor Director Seat with ASTA.
I have been in the Travel Industry for over 45+ years. The passion I carry for this Industry has propelled me into various Industry positions allowing me to gain extended knowledge.
My involvement within the industry throughout the years are:
- Worked as a Travel Advisor for several mayor Travel Agencies in Miami
- Owner of Proficient Travel Inc for 17 years
- ASTA mentor program – Mentor position
- TIA Travel Industry Association of Florida – An association dedicated to building productive relationships and knowledge between Travel Advisors and Industry Suppliers. Position as Vice President for the past two years.
- As an ASTA Independent Advisor Director I promise to bring that same passion to the table and work alongside the Board to ensure that all Travel Advisors voice are heard and advocate for Industry needs.
Name: Toni Lanotte-Day
Title: President
Company Name: Toni Tours, Inc.
City, State: Daytona Beach, FL
Phone: 516-369-5738
E-mail: toni@tonitours.net
I am honored to run for the ASTA Independent Contractor Director seat on the National Board to represent your interests. The makeup of ASTA has changed a lot over the years with Independent Contractor Advisors now making up a large percentage of ASTA membership. ASTA needs to speak with One Voice since it encompasses so many types of travel agencies. I will be your voice in the collective to make sure the needs of Independent Contractors are included in any ASTA decisions and policies for the overall good of our industry.
I have been an active ASTA member for over 20-years and have served in many roles. My titles have included member, Chapter Director/President for Long Island ASTA Small Business Network, Northeast Regional Director and National Director on the ASTA Board from 2015 to 2019. During my tenure on the board, I was instrumental in adding the Independent Contractor Category to ASTA membership and bringing NACTA under ASTA when we rebranded to American Society of Travel Advisors. Representing the Independent Contractor agency model has always been my passion and I will continue that drive on the ASTA Board if elected.
I am a strong supporter of ASTAPAC having served on the Government Affairs Committee from 2015 to 2022 and was honored to receive the Barbara O’Hara Advocacy Award in 2019. I have also attended several Legislative Days in Washington DC and network regularly with my local Congressional Representatives and partake in grass roots lobbying efforts when necessary.
I have been an independent contractor travel advisor since 1984. I started with a small mom and pop agency and migrated to Nexion as a host agency in 2005 and have been a Circle of Excellence Awardee for 3-years. I have been part of all the changes in our industry since 1984 and have grown more self-confident with each challenge faced. We have shown resiliency through those challenges to evolve and be stronger than ever. I see a bright future ahead and am happy to be a part of it.
I was a life-long New Yorker until 2023, when I relocated to my new hometown of Daytona Beach and reside in Lattitude Margaritaville. I am an active member of the North Florida ASTA Chapter and have recently started a sub-chapter hosting travel advisor meetings in Margaritaville enabling Daytona area advisors to network with each other and travel suppliers to grow their business and increase ASTA membership.
My previous work life experience was serving New York City as a FDNY EMS Paramedic for 26-years and rising to the rank of Deputy Chief before retiring in 2006. My experience in logistics, finance and problem solving, learned during my tenure there, provided me with skills that will be useful as a member of the ASTA Board.
I am asking for your vote to represent you! I would love to hear from you and what your concerns are. Thanking you in advance for your consideration.
Name: Tracy Schatz
Title: Owner
Company Name: Elite Travel Journeys, Inc..
City, State: Schuylkill Haven, PA
Phone: 484-332-0234
E-mail: tracy@elitetraveljourneys.com
Dear Fellow Travel Professionals,
After more than two decades in the travel industry, I am honored to announce my candidacy for the Independent Advisor seat on the ASTA Board of Directors. As someone who has dedicated their life to both service and the advancement of our profession, I believe I bring a unique perspective and skill set to this vital leadership role.
My journey in travel began after proudly serving our country in the United States Air Force, where I learned invaluable lessons about leadership, discipline, and the importance of mission-focused planning. These military principles have guided me throughout my 21-year career in travel, helping me build a successful independent agency and mentor countless new professionals entering our industry.
As the current President of ASTA's Central Pennsylvania Chapter, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of our organization. Under my leadership, our chapter has experienced remarkable growth in membership and engagement, particularly among independent advisors who represent the fastest-growing segment of our industry. We've implemented innovative programs that address the real-world challenges facing travel professionals, from leveraging technology to navigating the complexities of modern supplier relationships. Within 3 years of our creation, we were honored to receive both the “Up and Coming Chapter of the Year” and the prestigious “Chapter of the Year” award from ASTA.
The landscape of travel advising has evolved dramatically since I first started my home-based agency. I've experienced the challenges and opportunities that come with this evolution – from adapting to new technologies to building strong client relationships in a virtual environment. This hands-on experience gives me a deep understanding of the unique needs of independent advisors, who often work without the support structure of traditional brick-and-mortar agencies.
My commitment to mentoring new agents stems from my belief that our industry's future depends on nurturing fresh talent while preserving the wisdom and best practices that have made travel advisors indispensable to consumers. Through one-on-one mentoring and structured training programs, I've helped dozens of new advisors establish successful businesses, teaching them not just the technical aspects of our profession but also the art of building lasting client relationships.
If elected to the ASTA Board of Directors, I pledge to focus on several key initiatives:
- Strengthening Educational Resources: Developing comprehensive training programs that address the evolving needs of both new and experienced agents, with a particular focus on technology integration and business development.
- Enhancing Industry Advocacy: Leveraging my leadership experience to amplify ASTA's voice in discussions with suppliers, legislators, and other stakeholders to protect and advance the interests of travel advisors.
- Building Community: Creating more opportunities for knowledge sharing and collaboration among independent advisors through enhanced networking platforms and mentorship programs.
- Advancing Technology Adoption: Working to ensure ASTA members have access to cutting-edge tools and training that can help them compete effectively in today's digital marketplace.
My military background has instilled in me the values of integrity, service before self, and excellence in all endeavors. These principles, combined with my extensive experience in the travel industry, make me uniquely qualified to serve on ASTA's Board of Directors. In the Air Force, I learned that effective leadership requires not just vision but also the ability to listen, adapt, and execute. These skills have served me well as a chapter president and will be invaluable in representing the diverse interests of our membership at the national level.
My vision for ASTA is one of inclusive growth and innovation, where independent advisors of all experience levels have access to the resources, support, and advocacy they need to thrive. I believe that by strengthening our community and advancing our professional standards, we can ensure that travel advisors remain essential to consumers in an increasingly digital world.
Sincerely,
Tracy Schatz
President, ASTA Central Pennsylvania Chapter Independent Travel Advisor
