News to Know

GBTA Foundation
GBTA Foundation Recognizes Changemakers, Raises Support for the Next Generation of Business Travel Talent

The global business travel industry's most influential leaders and organizations were recognized for their commitment to creating a more sustainable, inclusive and resilient future during the GBTA Foundation's inaugural Gala held last night at Chicago's iconic Field Museum.

Held on the eve of GBTA Convention 2026, the event brought together more than 250 industry leaders and guests to celebrate those advancing the Foundation's mission to create positive impact for People and the Planet. The event also raised $83,250 to support the GBTA Foundation's NextGen Program and Fund.

A highlight was the announcement of the winners of the 2026 GBTA Foundation Impact Awards:

• The Catalyst Award: Sarah Martin, Senior Communications Director at Amex GBT
• The Innovator’s Award: Shirley Stroud, Life Sciences Senior Compliance Manager, BCD Travel
• The Changemaker Award: Anna Rose Feinberg, Founder & CEO, Alo Index
• The Partner for Progress Award: Meta and United Airlines

The evening's highest honor, the Luminary Award for Industry Impact, was presented to Dave Hilfman, retired Senior Vice President of Worldwide Sales at United Airlines and a long-time GBTA supporter and advisor.

The evening also recognized the winners of the GBTA Sustainability Acceleration Awards, selected from 285 travel programs who participated in the GBTA Sustainability Acceleration Challenge in 2025:

• Global Acceleration Award Winner: AVEVA
• North America Acceleration Award Winner: Arcadis

Read more in the full announcement here. Visit the GBTA Foundation website for more information.

Industry Spotlight

GBTA WINiT
Celebrate the Women and Allies Moving Our Industry Forward 

Every day, women and allies across business travel are creating opportunities, inspiring others, driving innovation, and opening doors for future leaders. 

The WINiT Top 50 Awards recognize those contributions through categories honoring women leaders, mentors, innovators, global changemakers, and allies. 

Now is the time to recognize the outstanding industry leaders making an impact. 

The 2026 WINiT Top 50 honorees will be announced on September 30, 2026, and recognized during the WINiT Summit in Dallas, TX, on Tuesday, October 27, 2026.