Virtuoso commemorates Women’s History Month by highlighting the influential women who have shaped the travel advisor profession. The initiative, titled “Generations of Impact: Matriarchs Who Shaped a Profession,” is an ongoing series that pays tribute to the female trailblazers who have left an indelible mark on the Virtuoso network and the broader luxury travel industry.
“There was no blueprint to follow; it was through grit, perseverance and passion that these incredible women built some of the most respected and successful businesses in luxury travel,” said Virtuoso Chairman and CEO Matthew D. Upchurch in a press statement. “Not only did they blaze a trail for other women to follow, but they also set an example for all in how to lead with equal parts empathy and strength. I learned firsthand early in my own career that you could count on them for guidance as well as to tell you straight-up how it really was, and I am grateful for how they’ve helped shape the Virtuoso network. I wanted to produce these videos to preserve their history and inspire future generations of travel advisors, as well as to show my gratitude for all that they have given to this industry and me, personally.”
Virtuoso Women Pioneers
Through in-depth interviews, this project spotlights seven pioneering women, each of whom launched their careers during the leisure travel industry’s early stages, when it was predominantly male-dominated. These visionary entrepreneurs recognized the potential of luxury travel at a time when women-owned businesses were scarce. Their foresight and determination set new standards for future generations to aspire to and emulate.
The influence of these matriarchs extends far beyond their individual successes, influencing various aspects of luxury travel today. Their impact is particularly evident in the development of Virtuoso and their role in nurturing new generations of travel experts within the industry.
This diverse group of women whose collective contributions continue to resonate throughout the travel sector includes (click on the links for video interviews):
Ange Wallace of Wallace Pierson Travel in Amelia Island, Florida, brings her unique perspective from the Sunshine State. Cher Roscoe, representing Travelcall in Melbourne, Australia, offers insights from the Land Down Under. Mary Ann Ramsey of Betty Maclean Travel, Inc. in Naples, Florida, shares her experiences from the Gulf Coast.
Nancy Strong, founder of Strong Travel Services in Dallas, Texas, provides a view from the Lone Star State. Phoebe Weinberg of Greatways Travel, Inc. in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan, offers her expertise from the Midwest. Ruth Turpin, who established Cruises Etc. Travel LLC in Fort Worth, Texas, contributes her knowledge of the cruise industry. Valerie Ann Wilson, the force behind Valerie Wilson Travel, Inc. in New York, New York, rounds out the group with her Big Apple savvy.
These women’s stories are not just tales of individual success but of resilience, innovation and leadership that have helped shape the luxury travel landscape. Their journeys from ambitious beginners to industry leaders will inspire current and future generations of travel professionals.
For more information, visit virtuoso.com.
