USTOA Announces 2026 Leadership Team and Board of Directors at Annual Conference in Maryland: Know More

Published on December 4, 2025

The United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) has unveiled its 2026 Executive Committee and Board of Directors during the association’s Annual Conference & Marketplace, held December 1–5, 2025, at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland. The announcement marks a significant step forward as USTOA continues to strengthen leadership across the U.S. travel and tour industry.

At the helm of the 2026 Executive Committee is Jeff Roy, executive vice president and chief revenue officer of Collette, who takes on the role of chairman. Roy brings a wealth of experience in international tour operations, revenue strategy, and organizational growth, positioning him to guide USTOA through a pivotal year of expansion and industry evolution. Supporting him as vice chairman is Pam Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways at Globus Family of Brands, known for her expertise in river cruising and luxury travel offerings.

The committee is further strengthened by Keith Baron, chief operating officer of Perillo Tours, who serves as treasurer, overseeing fiscal responsibility and financial planning for the association. Jeremy Palmer, president of Tauck, assumes the role of secretary, ensuring that strategic decisions and governance matters are effectively documented and executed. Completing the executive lineup is Dana Santucci, executive vice president of EF Educational Tours, who serves as immediate past chairman, providing continuity and institutional knowledge to the leadership team.

The 2026 USTOA Board of Directors reflects a diverse and experienced cross-section of industry leaders representing a wide range of travel sectors. Board members include Emma Cottis, director of business solutions at Goway Travel, and Bob Drumm, chairman and CEO of Alexander + Roberts, both recognized for their strategic leadership in tour development and operational excellence.

Joining them are Jerre Fuqua, president of Holiday Vacations, and Laudie Hanou, senior vice president at SITA World Tours, who bring extensive knowledge in leisure travel, destination management, and global market expansion. Melissa Krueger, CEO of Classic Vacations, adds her expertise in luxury travel and curated experiences, while Jason Naito, senior director of revenue management and strategy at ALG Vacations, offers a data-driven perspective on revenue growth and market strategy.

Additional board members include Rosanne Zusman, chief commercial officer at CIE Tours, whose leadership in cultural and experiential travel has been widely recognized, and Matt Berna, senior vice president of sales USA at Intrepid Travel, who brings insights into sustainable tourism and adventure travel trends. Madhvi Buch, SVP of strategic business solutions at The Travel Corporation USA, contributes her experience in multi-brand portfolio management and operational innovation, and Ray Hourani, managing director of Travel Operations at AAA Exclusive Vacations, rounds out the board with a strong background in premium travel services and client-focused operations.

The 2026 Executive Committee and Board of Directors are expected to steer USTOA through continued growth, advocating for tour operators nationwide, and providing strategic insights that will help shape the future of travel. With an emphasis on innovation, market expansion, and sustainable tourism practices, the leadership team is poised to support members as they navigate evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and global travel trends.

USTOA’s Annual Conference & Marketplace provided a platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration among hundreds of industry professionals. The event highlighted the resilience and adaptability of U.S. tour operators, with sessions focusing on post-pandemic recovery, sustainable travel initiatives, digital transformation, and strategies to attract the next generation of travelers.

As the travel industry continues to recover and evolve, the newly appointed leadership team at USTOA is committed to promoting collaboration, advancing best practices, and ensuring that member organizations are equipped to deliver exceptional travel experiences worldwide. This announcement underscores the association’s ongoing dedication to fostering industry growth and maintaining the United States’ position as a global leader in tourism and tour operations.

The 2026 leadership team and board will officially commence their tenure at the start of the new year, with plans to implement strategic initiatives designed to strengthen USTOA’s influence, member engagement, and industry advocacy. Their collective expertise spans luxury travel, adventure tourism, cultural experiences, operational strategy, and revenue management, ensuring a comprehensive approach to supporting U.S. tour operators in a dynamic global travel environment.