The United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) has announced that Terry Dale will remain at the helm as President and CEO through 2028. Dale, who has guided the association since 2011, signed a new two-year contract extension, according to Dana Santucci, Executive Vice President at EF Education First and Chairman of USTOA’s Board of Directors, as noted in a media statement.
“On behalf of the executive committee, board of directors, and all members, I want to recognize Terry’s unparalleled leadership of USTOA,” said Santucci. “His innovative vision and unwavering commitment have transformed the association’s influence within the global travel and tourism industry. Through Terry’s efforts, USTOA’s voice is stronger, our members are better supported, and the path forward is clear and brighter than ever.”
Driving Growth and Advocacy
“It’s an honor, both personally and professionally, to continue to lead USTOA,” said Dale, in a media statement. “I’m grateful for the trust of our members, executive committee, and board, and I’m inspired every day by the dedication of our team. Together, we’ll keep turning challenges into opportunities that make USTOA stronger and that move the global travel industry forward.”
Under Dale’s stewardship, USTOA has broadened its influence across multiple fronts. He has spearheaded advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C., elevated the association’s marketing reach and championed responsible travel initiatives, notably through the award-winning Sustainability is Responsibility (SIR) Summit.
The USTOA Congressional Caucus, now in its 13th year, has become another signature achievement, providing a platform for members to engage directly with policymakers on pressing industry issues.
USTOA’s Annual Conference & Marketplace remains a standout event for the trade, with the 2025 edition already sold out. Dale has also ensured members benefit from data-driven insights through the biannual PwC USTOA Member Economic Survey, a resource for forecasting and industry planning.
Most recently, Dale played a pivotal role in launching the Beyond Borders Tourism Coalition in early 2025, uniting 10 associations from the U.S. and Canada to tackle border and trade challenges impacting travel. On the international stage, Dale has represented USTOA as a global ambassador, speaking at high-profile events in destinations including China, Tanzania, Colombia, Jordan, Israel and Chile.
For more information, visit ustoa.com.
