Vickie Ashford-Thompson
I’m Vickie Ashford-Thompson, director of travel media for the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau. I have served in the position of Associate-at-Large for one term and have hopefully made an impact. Since joining SATW many years ago, I have advocated for a more diverse association. Now, as co-chair of SATW’s Diversity Equity Accessibility & Inclusion committee (DEAI), I can report that we’re making steps towards change and committed to the long road ahead. I am also committed to helping my fellow Associates better understand the intricacies of welcoming visitors from all backgrounds and abilities. As I’ve listened to concerns of Associates, I have been sure to share those concerns with fellow Board members. Since I have now worked nearly a full term on the Board, I am more aware and tuned in to the operations of the organization and have determined that I can continue to offer my knowledge and input with other Board members as we continue to strengthen the membership.
Andi Martin
Dear colleagues and fellow SATW members,
My name is Andi Martin, and I am the Public Relations Manager for the Alabama Tourism Department. I am proud to support SATW by way of stepping forward as a candidate for Associate At Large position on the Society Board.
The purpose of my campaign is to publicly raise a hand within the organization to offer a myself as a ready partner and collaborator, willing and eager to contribute to SATW’s mission. Though I have only been a member of the organization for a short time, I have found exceptional value in both the learning opportunities and the camaraderie with other travel professionals to elevate our industry and respective destinations.
I have found a home with the DEAI committee and feel inspired by these lessons and insights to go forth and better our world. Is my personal belief that travel is transformative, and through sharing stories, we have opportunity to foster a deeper understanding of each other and all citizens of the world.
Before my time with the Alabama Tourism Department, I spent two years with the Alabama Historical Commission as Marketing and Public Relations Manager, with the Alabama Bicentennial Commission, five seasons with the Alabama Shakespeare Festival as Assistant Director of Marketing and various marketing capacities with an American Express Travel affiliate in Atlanta, GA. My career has centered around storytelling and collaboration.
If selected as Associate at Large, I will work to foster dialog among Associate members and to encourage more to come to the table so that we can continue to grow as an organization.
We have such exceptional membership, and I am delighted to be affiliated. It is my sincere pleasure to support SATW’s work, and I look forward to being any asset that I can. Thank you for the opportunity to serve and to become a more mindful travel professional.
Sincerely,
Andi Martin