Press Releases

NEW YORK (April 25, 2023) - Terry Dale, president and CEO of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA), announced the recent appointment of Elizabeth Crabill, CEO of CIE Tours, as chairman of the executive committee. Crabill has been a member of the executive committee since 2018.

Crabill steps into the position following the departure of former Chairman Scott Wiseman from ALG Vacations Corporation.

“It is an honor and privilege to serve as chairman of USTOA’s executive committee,” said Crabill. “I look forward to collaborating with Terry and the USTOA team as well as my colleagues on the executive committee to further the association’s initiatives to propel advocacy and responsible travel forward.”

Crabill has served as the CEO of CIE Tours, the largest Ireland specialist tour operator in the United States, since 2016. The tour operator has earned a reputation for excellence rooted in its signature Irish hospitality for more than 90 years of operation.

“We are excited to continue working with Elizabeth in her new position as chairman,” said Dale. “Her expertise and passion for the tourism industry is evident from her dedication to the association. As USTOA continues to look 50 years forward, Elizabeth will be a guiding light on our journey.”

Crabill appointed two new members to the Executive Committee to fill open roles. Pam Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways will serve as secretary. Dana Santucci, executive vice president of EF Educational Tours will now serve as the immediate past chair replacing Charlie Ball who retired from Holland America Group in April. Madhvi Buch, global head of business solutions at The Travel Corporation USA, will take on the role of vice chairman and Jeff Roy, executive vice president of revenue management, pricing, and worldwide operations at Collette, will take on the role as treasurer.

Additionally, the USTOA 2023 Board of Directors includes: (*indicates newly appointed)

• Emma Cottis, general manager - business systems, Goway Travel
• Kirk Demeter, president and owner, Down Under Answers
• Bob Drumm, chairman and CEO, Alexander + Roberts
• Jerre Fuqua, president, Holiday Vacations*
• Laudie Hanou, vice president, SITA World Tours
• John Hanratty, senior vice president of sales industry relations, Avanti Destinations
• Ray Hourani, director of travel air operations, Club Adventures by AAA Exclusive Vacations
• Melissa Krueger, chief executive officer, Classic Vacations*
• Dan Mahar, chief executive officer, Tauck
• Nish Patel, president, Mayflower Cruises and Tours

For more information on USTOA, visit www.ustoa.com.

About USTOA: 

Representing $16 billion in revenue, the member companies of U.S. Tour Operators Association provide tours, packages and custom arrangements that allow six million travelers annually unparalleled access, insider knowledge, peace-of-mind, value, and freedom to enjoy destinations and experiences across the entire globe. Each member company has met the travel industry’s highest standards, including participation in the USTOA’s Travelers Assistance Program, which protects consumer payments up to $1 million if the company goes out of business.  As a voice for the tour operator industry for 50 years, USTOA also provides education and assistance for consumers and travel agents.

Contact:

Gina Dolecki/Alice Phillips                                                   

Redpoint

212-229-0119

dolecki@redpointmarketingpr.com /phillips@redpointmarketingpr.com