GBTA | Chapter Presidents Council

As we gather with loved ones to reflect on the blessings of the past year, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible community of GBTA Chapter Presidents, members, and supporters. Your dedication, leadership, and passion for advancing the travel industry inspire us every day. Together, we’ve accomplished so much, from fostering collaboration across chapters to championing meaningful change within our profession. Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate connection, community, and the values that bring us together—just like our GBTA family. Whether you’re traveling or staying close to home, we hope your holiday is filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished moments. From all of us at the CPC, thank you for all that you do. Wishing you and your loved ones a Happy Thanksgiving! #Thanksgiving #Gratitude #GBTACommunity #TogetherWeThrive (Photo credit -?Debby Hudson)

Our latest highlight in the Presidential Series is Shawnda Witterstaetter, GTP, the Global Travel Category Manager at Dentsply Sirona and President of GBTA Kansas City. Shawnda’s focus is clear: helping others, fostering connections, and driving collaboration within the travel industry. She believes in the power of unity and is committed to pushing the industry forward by working together to create positive change. In her role at Dentsply Sirona, Shawnda brings a thoughtful, relationship-driven approach to global travel management. As the President of GBTA Kansas City, she leads with purpose, empowering others to connect, learn, and grow within the business travel community. We’re inspired by Shawnda’s dedication to making a difference and strengthening the ties that bind our industry together. #Leadership #GBTA #PresidentialDrive #Collaboration #BusinessTravel

This week’s Friday Spotlight highlights Michele Wilson, GTP, a dedicated leader and passionate advocate for the business travel industry. As Senior Regional Account Executive at Hunter World Travel, Michele excels in managing corporate travel accounts and building strong client relationships. She also serves as the President of GBTA l Silicon Valley, where she works to bring value to the chapter and foster connections within the travel community. Michele lives by the mantra “Live each day like it is your last,” which reflects her proactive approach to both life and work. She is driven by the belief that every moment presents an opportunity to make an impact, and this philosophy influences her leadership style and commitment to the business travel industry. Whether it’s advocating for industry innovation, encouraging collaboration, or supporting fellow members, Michele is always focused on making a difference. As the president of GBTA Silicon Valley, Michele has worked tirelessly to create a space where local travel professionals can grow, share ideas, and tackle the challenges of the evolving travel landscape. Her focus on community and continuous learning has inspired many in her chapter and beyond. When not leading in the business travel space, Michele enjoys spending quality time with her family and embracing life’s simple pleasures. Her dedication to both her professional and personal life serves as a reminder to make the most of each day and lead with purpose. #GBTACPC #Leadership #BusinessTravel #GBTASiliconValley

At the GBTA Chapter Presidents' Council (CPC), we know that when we come together, incredible things happen. Serving as the connection point for 37 chapters and thousands of travel professionals, CPC is here to provide the tools, resources, and support that strengthen our community and drive meaningful impact across the entire business travel industry. Whether it’s helping our members grow professionally, advocating for the policies that shape our industry, or sparking fresh ideas, we’re proud to stand alongside our chapters and their members. Together, we’re not just creating opportunities—we’re building a brighter future for business travel and elevating voices across all communities. #GBTACPC #Collaboration #BusinessTravel #Leadership

On Friday, December 6th at 11AM EST join GBTA to Meet the Committees where you will learn about the GBTA Committees including upcoming projects and how you can become involved. Visit https://lnkd.in/eKEpZFUd to register.

Fueled with purpose, we’re excited to highlight Isabella Rusike, President of Bella Global Group and President of the GBTA | Georgia Chapter. Isabella is a trailblazer in the business travel industry, bringing her entrepreneurial spirit and deep commitment to excellence to everything she does. As the founder of Bella Global Group, Isabella leads with innovation and a global perspective, helping organizations navigate the complexities of international business travel with ease. Her leadership as GBTA Georgia’s Chapter President has been instrumental in fostering collaboration and professional development among members, making the chapter a cornerstone for the local travel community. Outside of work, Isabella is passionate about mentoring the next generation of leaders and finding creative solutions to drive meaningful change in the industry. We are so grateful to have Isabella as a part of the CPC family, inspiring us all with her drive, vision, and dedication. Thank you for your leadership, Isabella! #GBTACPC #Leadership #BusinessTravel #GBTAGeorgia

This Thursdays, spotlight is on Carmen Smith, GLP, Travel and Expense Manager for Immunocore and President of the Greater DC Metro GBTA Chapter, who also serves as the Vice President of the CPC. Carmen brings a wealth of experience and dedication to our industry. As a committed leader, she balances her role at Immunocore with her responsibilities as chapter president, fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence within the Greater DC Metro area. Her contributions as CPC Vice President have strengthened our community, offering invaluable insights and support to chapter leaders across the nation. We also want to thank Carmen for sharing her beautiful daughter, Adrianna, with us. It’s always a joy to see her and be reminded of the personal connections that make our GBTA community so special. Thank you, Carmen, for your leadership, dedication, and the passion you bring to every initiative! Stay tuned each week as we continue to highlight the incredible leaders of GBTA’s Chapters! #GBTAPresidents #BusinessTravel #Leadership #Community?

We’re thrilled to introduce Kari Bigot, GTP?, President of the GBTA North Central Chapter and Vice President of Corporate Business Development at The Travel Team, Inc on our latest Presidential Drive post. Kari’s journey in the corporate travel industry is marked by her passion for innovation and commitment to building strong, lasting connections. As chapter president, Kari fosters a collaborative environment, empowering her members to engage, grow, and make a difference in their roles. With her strategic vision and dedication, Kari continuously raises the bar, ensuring her chapter not only navigates the evolving travel landscape but thrives within it. Her leadership and drive exemplify what it means to lead with values and a powerful sense of purpose. Thank you, Kari, for all you do to inspire and elevate our business travel community! #GBTA #PresidentialDrive #Leadership #PurposeDriven

If you’re curious about the potential impact of these elections on our industry, join Shane Downey on December 10 for an exclusive webinar, “U.S. Elections Analysis: What’s In-Store for Business Travel.” Gain insights into how election outcomes may impact business travel and what trends to watch for in the coming months. Link to register in Shane’s post below?? #GBTA #BusinessTravel

Presidential Drive - led by values, fueled with purpose. Meet Renee Huff. Renee is the Senior Global Program Director at BCD Travel, where she has been a dedicated team member for 24 years! Throughout her impressive career, Renee has demonstrated unwavering commitment to excellence in global program management and client relationships. Her vast experience has made her an invaluable asset to the travel industry, fostering innovation and efficiency in every project she leads. In addition to her work at BCD, Renee is the president of the GBTA | Ohio Valley - OVBTA chapter, where she continues to make a significant impact. Her leadership is grounded in collaboration, empowerment, and a deep passion for advancing the business travel community. Renee's remarkable journey is a true reflection of her values and dedication to the industry. We are proud to celebrate her contributions and leadership as she continues to inspire others to excel and thrive. #GBTA #PresidentialDrive #Leadership #PurposeDriven