Destinations International Announces 2026 Pathways to Success Scholarship Recipients
Eight students awarded funding and professional development opportunities to support careers in hospitality and tourism
POTOMAC FALLS, Va., U.S. (Apr. 8, 2026) — Destinations International (DI), the world’s largest and most trusted resource for destination organizations, today announced the 2026 recipients of its Pathways to Success Scholarship & Professional Development Program, an initiative supported by the Destinations International Foundation designed to increase access, opportunity and career pathways for students pursuing degrees in hospitality and tourism management.
Building on the success of the initial HBCU Scholarship program, Pathways to Success broadens its reach to support students at all accredited colleges and universities across the United States and Canada. Each selected student receives up to $8,000 USD in tuition support, along with access to year-long mentorship, professional development and industry engagement opportunities, including mentorship and participation at DI’s Annual Convention. The program provides students with critical visibility into the destination sector, often underrepresented in academic settings, while fostering local connections that can lead to internships, mentorship and long-term career opportunities within their own communities.
“Investing in the next generation of destination leaders is essential to the long-term strength and sustainability of our industry,” said Don Welsh, president & CEO of Destinations International. “Through the Pathways to Success program, we are not only reducing financial barriers but creating meaningful connections and learning experiences that prepare these exceptional students for careers in tourism and hospitality. By providing direct exposure to the destination sector, we are helping students better understand the breadth of opportunities within their own communities and building pathways to meaningful, place-based careers.”
“The Destinations International Foundation is proud to support programs that expand access and create meaningful career pathways for emerging professionals,” said Foundation Chair Martha J. Sheridan, president & CEO of Meet Boston. “By investing in these students, we are helping to build a stronger, more future-ready workforce for our industry.”
2026 Pathways to Success Scholars
• Christell Miranda Lopez, University of the District of Columbia
• Elise Tyson, Morgan State University
• Gabrielle Nembhard, Delaware State University
• Kristelle Soto, University of Central Florida
• Pasindu Perera, South Dakota State University
• Samya Drakeford, Delaware State University
• Semiyah Smith, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
• Wut Yee Kyi Pyar, University of Waterloo
Applicants for the Pathways to Success program are selected based on academic achievement, demonstrated financial need and strong commitment to leadership and service. Beyond financial support, the program emphasizes community-building and career readiness, providing students with greater visibility into the destination sector and connecting them with industry leaders in their regions. This approach ensures scholars graduate with both the skills and professional networks needed to pursue meaningful careers and contribute to the growth of their local visitor economies.
More information about the program is available at https://destinationsinternational.org/pathways-success.
Tim Smith is a strategic communications leader with over 20 years of experience across government, industry, agency, and association sectors. He has held senior roles at Delaware North, APCO Worldwide, and Edelman, and served abroad as a U.S. diplomat promoting trade and investment. As Vice President of Communications, he leads strategy to elevate brand, support the association’s mission, and engage global stakeholders. Tim is active in civic and professional organizations and has served on multiple boards. He lives outside Buffalo, New York, with his wife and has three grown children.