MGM Resorts International CEO Bill Hornbuckle has been appointed as the new national chair of the U.S. Travel Association's board of directors, succeeding Chris Nassetta of Hilton. Hornbuckle, who previously served on the U.S. Department of Commerce's Travel and Tourism Advisory Board, brings extensive industry knowledge to his new role.

Hornbuckle's appointment comes at a pivotal time as the U.S. Travel Association prepares for significant upcoming events such as the 2025 Ryder Cup, America's 250th celebration, and the 2028 Summer Olympics. In his statement, Hornbuckle expressed gratitude for the opportunity and underscored the importance of bolstering the travel sector amidst these landmark occasions.

"I'm honored to take on this role at such a critical juncture," said Hornbuckle. "America remains a global leader in travel and hospitality, and it is imperative that we foster an environment conducive to industry growth and economic prosperity."

Geoff Freeman, CEO of U.S. Travel, praised Hornbuckle's leadership skills and highlighted his deep understanding of key industry issues. Freeman also commended outgoing chair Chris Nassetta for his contributions in refining the association's strategic focus.

As national chair, Hornbuckle will lead an executive board comprising 30 industry leaders, including prominent figures from entities such as Caesars Entertainment, Disney, and Delta Air Lines. Together, they will collaborate closely to advance U.S. Travel's mission of promoting travel both domestically and internationally.

U.S. Travel Unveils New Governing Slate

Yesterday, U.S. Travel announced the governing slate for the upcoming term, including William (Bill) J. Hornbuckle, CEO & President of MGM Resorts International, as the National Chair. This cohort of elected officers, executive board, and committee members represent powerhouse travel leaders who will guide the association's strategy and ensure the success of U.S. Travel's evolution into becoming an indispensable organization.

Executive Board

National Chair
Bill Hornbuckle - CEO & President, MGM Resorts International

Immediate Past Chair
Chris Nassetta - President & CEO, Hilton

Vice Chairs
Caroline Beteta - President & CEO, Visit California
Casandra Matej - President & CEO, Visit Orlando

Treasurer
Michael A. Massari - Chief Sales Officer, Caesars Entertainment Inc.

Secretary
Julie Coker - President & CEO, New York City Tourism + Conventions

President
Geoff Freeman - President & CEO, U.S. Travel Association

Board Members
Doreen Burse - SVP, Worldwide Sales, United Airlines
Paul Cash - EVP, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
Annika Chase - SVP, Commercial Strategy, Disneyland Resort, The Walt Disney Company
Santiago C. Corrada - President & CEO, Visit Tampa Bay
Melissa Froehlich-Flood - SVP, Global Corporate Communications and Public Policy, Marriott International, Inc.
Nate Gatten - EVP, American Eagle Corporate Real Estate and Government Affairs, American Airlines
Stephanie Glanzer - Chief Sales Officer & SVP, MGM Resorts International
Jim D. Hagen - Secretary of Tourism, Travel South Dakota
Christian Hempell - Chief Commercial Officer, Herschend Enterprises
Helen T. Hill - President & CEO, Explore Charleston
Laura Hodges Bethge - President, Celebrity Cruises (Royal Caribbean Group)
Deana Ivey - President & CEO, Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp
Brett Keller - CEO, Priceline (Booking Holdings)
Walt Leger III - President & CEO, New Orleans & Company
Katherine Lugar - EVP, Corporate Affairs, Hilton
Tim Mapes - SVP & Chief Communications Officer, Delta Air Lines, Inc.
Tom Noonan - President & CEO, Visit Austin
Ron Price - President & CEO, Visit Phoenix
Peter Sears - Group President - Americas, Hyatt Hotels Corporation
Diane Shober - Executive Director, Wyoming Office of Tourism
Scott Strobl - EVP & General Manager, Universal Studios Hollywood (Universal Destinations & Experiences)
Melvin Tennant - President & CEO, Meet Minneapolis
Rob Torres - SVP, Media Solutions, Expedia Group
Wit Tuttell - Executive Director, Visit North Carolina
Phillip A. Washington - Chief Executive Officer, Denver International Airport

The newly appointed executive board will work collectively to drive strategic initiatives that enhance the U.S. travel industry and promote growth within the sector.