Trailblazers of Togetherness: Redefining the Journey in Group Travel
Spanning from New York to Montana, Leisure Group Travel’s feature, “Group Travel All-Stars,” highlights the professionals making a mark in the travel industry. Here you will find a range of individuals, from industry veterans with extensive experience to newcomers with fresh perspectives, all of whom are contributing significantly to the evolution of group travel.
Their innovative approaches, commitment to customer service, and the unique experiences they offer, showcase how they’re setting new standards in a competitive field.
International All-Stars
Reanna Nyiro
Private Travel GCO @ G-Adventures
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
Fundraising for Planeterra to earn my spot at GX Peru, where I had the opportunity to meet so many of the amazing Agents I work with!
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
When booking a Private Tour with G Adventures you can choose from over 700 expertly designed itineraries, and pick a date that works best for you. Travel with your selected group of as few as 8 people for added reassurance and personal connection.
Mona Fox
Reservations Manager @ St. Lawrence Cruise Lines
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
I am extremely proud of my 28 years at St. Lawrence Cruise Lines. We are a small family-owned overnight cruise operator and I have worked with our marine operations staff to develop our cruises over the long term. Our core team has a lot of time and care invested in our business and it is more like a family.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
Our process is based around personal familiarity, trust, and attention to detail.
West All-Stars
Monica Murillo
Sales Manager @ Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
I am very proud that groups and schools have positive experiences at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. The Tramway played a large role in my childhood growing up in Palm Springs and I enjoy creating those memories for others!
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway provides a unique and fun experience for all ages. From fine dining to 50+ miles of hiking trails, every group can find something they enjoy.
Melissa Giller
Chief Marketing Officer @ Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
My proudest accomplishment is securing the “Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away.” exhibit for the Reagan Library, which ran in 2023. My first outreach to the exhibit company was 2017 and it took conversations through 2021 to work out the logistics to bring it to the Library.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
We are a full service operation! We can help group planners book their group’s visit to the Reagan Library.
Mid-Atlantic All-Stars
Heather Colache
Tourism Account Director @ Visit Atlantic City
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
Changing branding to Visit Atlantic City and creating authentic, affordable Atlantic City Group experiences that showcase all of our group friendly partners.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
Our group tour team at Visit Atlantic City is committed to make sure groups have all the information, contacts, and marketing materials they need to have a memorable Atlantic City experience.
LISA ARRELL
Senior Manager, Sales & Marketing @ Faith and Liberty Discovery Center
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
Developing partnerships with planners to work together in order to provide outstanding service to their travelers.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
We offer personalized planning and booking for each visit.
Sandra Vieira
Director of Marketing & Public Relations @ George Mason’s Gunston Hall
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
After my family, my advocacy work for students and adults with special needs.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
As part of our standard group tour, we offer Educator-led mansion tours along with access to our 550+ acres and Museum with its exhibit Revolutionary Rights. In addition, George Mason’s Gunston Hall can provide unique, custom-designed tour experiences to meet the needs of your group.
Margo DeRouchie
National Sales Director @ Pennsylvania’s Americana Region Visitors Bureau
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
I served in the U.S. Navy and later completed my undergraduate degree in marketing while working as a single mother of two. We can accomplish great things, and it’s never too late!
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
We’re at your service to assist with group tour itineraries, step-on guides, RFP’s, and any recommendations based on your group’s needs.
Nina Giacobbe
Manager of Group & Travel Trade Sales @ Museum of the American Revolution
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
Creating a team that can rely on each other when the going gets tough!
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
The Museum of the American Revolution works with several markets, from adult and senior groups to student and youth groups. Our team’s goal is to make the booking process as easy as possible.
Glenn J. Smith
Founder @ Brewery Tours
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
Our exclusive, educational and entertaining craft beer experiences have been nationally recognized, drawing guests from around the country who have rewarded Brewery Tours with a 5-Star Rating.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
Brewery Tours offers unique experiences throughout Pennsylvania and Maryland that feature their knowledgeable and experienced Beer Guides.
Southeast All-Stars
Matthew Pharazyn
Manager, Group Sales @ Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
Aligning the group sales efforts with the local community and travel, tourism industry.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
The College Football Hall of Fame offers a wide variety for group planners, including discount tickets, school curriculums (several categories).
Micah Spicer
Director of Sales & Marketing @ Ancient Lore Village
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
My proudest accomplishment is joining the Ancient Lore Village team and helping pioneer our brand and company. Watching the explosive growth since we opened in April 2021 has truly made every moment and challenge worth it!
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
Ancient Lore Village offers elevated immersive experiences in one of the most unique destinations in the United States.
Mike Gwinn
Senior Sales Manager @ Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
My proudest moment is having the opportunity to be in a position to help so many of our Pigeon Forge Tourism partners succeed and be an encouragement to them.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
We can assist with planning and connecting them with the right resources for a great group experience while in Pigeon Forge.
Sheila Friedrich
Admissions and Group Tours Manager @ Bellingrath Gardens & Home
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
Working my way from gardener to management for Bellingrath Gardens & Home.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
Help them get the most from their experience with the best price for both parties.
Midwest All-Stars
Renee M. Eichelberger
Senior Director Leisure Travel Sales @ Explore St. Louis
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
I had the privilege of working with the American Bus Association (ABA) conference in 2015, the National Tour Association/United Motorcoach Association (NTA/UMA) conference in 2017, and the Travel South International Showcase in 2019.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
We are dedicated to assisting planners in creating unforgettable trips. We are here to provide comprehensive support throughout the planning process, ensuring a successful experience.
Sonya L. Nash
Executive Director @Visit Shipshewana/LaGrange County, IN CVB
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
Shipshewana welcomes thousands of bus groups each year. We are proud that we have a team of partners who are friendly and open to greeting groups anytime of the year.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
The Visit Shipshewana CVB group tour team specializes in cultural and heritage tour planning services in the Heart of Amish Country and the entire Northern Indiana region.
Susan Yarolem
Senior Sales Manager @ Celebration River Cruises
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
With all the years, there have definitely been many, but overall, I have to say the relationships I have built. Being steady in the industry for so long and with the same company, you build many friendships over the years.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
The Celebration Belle, is a beautiful 750-passenger vessel, offering cruises for any itinerary need. We really do!
Stacy Pirtle
Director of Sales & Visitor Services @ Harrison County CVB
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
Working my way up from Adminstrative Asst to my current position.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
Itinerary planning, RFPs, goody bags, step-onguides etc.
Brandy Ream
Executive Director @ Visit French Lick West Baden
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
Keeping leisure and group travel as a focus postpandemic that has resulted in record visits and innkeepers tax collection for 2022 and 2023.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
Group Services Available from our expert team include: Customized & sample itineraries; Site visits & venue contacts; Promotional materials & images; Regional Information; Full-service visitor center; Step-on guide coordination; Personalized greeting & welcome bags.
Wendy Dobrzynski
Executive Director @ Circle Wisconsin
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
The one accomplishment that fills me with immense pride is the resounding success of the Circle Wisconsin Midwest Marketplace. Year after year, this marketplace has grown exponentially, garnering widespread acclaim from both tour planners and suppliers alike.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
Circle Wisconsin is your go-to resource for crafting the ultimate itineraries through our beautiful state.
Todd Read
Trade and Consumer Sales Manager @ SoIN Tourism
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
Being awarded the Spirit of TAP Award winner for 2023 by the tour operators of Travel Alliance Partners. I sit amongst some amazing previous award recipients.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
SoIN Tourism can provide itinerary planning, step-on guides, and excellent visitor services for your group tours to Southern Indiana. Your group will find a wide variety of things to do in this up-and-coming tourist destination.
Karen Murphy
Group Sales Manager @ Broadway In Chicago
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
I had an award named after me when I was in high school, the theatre company used the award until they stopped doing business. The company was called JAMO and the award, the KAMO was given to the person who went out of their way to help the production succeed.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
We provide wonderful theatrical experiences for all types of groups ranging from young children to seniors and everyone in-between!
Robert Rogers
Publicity Director @ Whitewater Valley Railroad
GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
We have watched our ridership numbers grow each year as we continue to expand the number and types of excursions we offer.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR PLANNERS
We provide multiple rail excursions, including one way options, that are perfect for large groups ranging from one half hour up to all day.
