IGLTA Foundation Adds Partnership Engagement Director

Media Contact: LoAnn Halden

VP-Communications

+1 954.630.1637 x 714

loann.halden@iglta.org

International human rights and business specialist Thomas “TJ” Chernick will lead the Foundation’s partnership programs

FOR LAUDERDALE, FL (13 July 2022)—The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association Foundation is proud to announce the addition of Thomas “TJ” Chernick (he/him) to the staff as Partnership Engagement Director. Chernick previously served as Executive Director of the New York Chapter of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (nglccNY). In his new IGLTA Foundation role, Chernick will apply his distinct expertise in partnership development with a focus on business and economic development.

“We are thrilled to add TJ’s talents to the IGLTA Foundation’s philanthropic mission to empower LGBTQ+ welcoming travel businesses,” said IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella. “Partnership, mentorship, and other supportive professional relationships are central to the Foundation’s work, and TJ will be a dynamic asset in cultivating and strengthening our collaborations in emerging and unique destinations around the world.”

Chernick in his new directorial position will build on more than 15 years of experience in international education, global human rights, and partnership development and stewardship. Before leading the nglccNY, he coordinated programs with the International Human Rights Law Institute at DePaul University, and served as a Program Officer for the International Fulbright Scholarship program. Chernick will bring to the IGLTA Foundation his robust professional experience, along with his enthusiasm for travel, education, foreign languages, and cultural exchange.

“I am beyond excited to join the IGLTA Foundation team and global community,” said Chernick. “I’m looking forward to bringing my experience and passion for international human rights, international education, and LGBTQ+ business advocacy to IGLTA. It is truly an honor to help advance the mission of the IGLTA Foundation by building lasting and sustainable partnerships.”

About IGLTA & the IGLTA Foundation

The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association is the global leader in advancing LGBTQ+ travel and a proud Affiliate Member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization. IGLTA’s mission is to provide information and resources for LGBTQ+ travelers and expand LGBTQ+ tourism globally by demonstrating its significant social and economic impact. The association’s professional network includes 10,000+ LGBTQ+ welcoming accommodations, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events and travel media, and its members can be found in 80 countries. The philanthropic IGLTA Foundation empowers LGBTQ+ welcoming travel businesses globally through leadership, research, and education. For more information: iglta.org, igltaconvention.org or iglta.org/foundation and follow us on Facebook @IGLTA, @IGLTABusiness or @IGLTAFoundation, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram @iglta.