Destinations International Extends Contract of President & CEO Don Welsh Through 2027

Extension Reflects Period of Rapid Change and Opportunity for Destination Organizations

POTOMAC FALLS, Va., U.S.  (Feb. 2, 2026) – Destinations International (DI) today announced the contract extension of President & CEO Don Welsh through December 31, 2027. Welsh and the Executive Committee of the DI Board of Directors mutually agreed to extend the previous agreement, which had been set to conclude at the end of 2026.

“Don’s leadership continues to be a tremendous asset to Destinations International and the global destination organization community,” said Leslie Bruce, CDME, chair of the DI Board of Directors and president & CEO of Banff & Lake Louise Tourism. “Under his guidance, DI has strengthened its relevance, expanded its impact and positioned itself for long-term success during a period of significant change and opportunity for our industry.”

The DI Foundation Executive Committee also welcomed the announcement, underscoring the importance of sustained leadership as the organization continues to invest in research, education and workforce development initiatives that support the global destination community.

“Don has been a steadfast champion of the DI Foundation’s mission and a powerful advocate for the role of research, education and impact in shaping the future of our industry,” said Martha J. Sheridan, chair of the foundation and president & CEO of Meet Boston. “His continued leadership provides stability, vision and confidence for our investments in the people and programs that will define the next generation of destination leadership.”

Over the next two years, Welsh will continue to focus on strategic priorities for the organization, including supporting DI’s new Chief Revenue Officer, Sharon Houghton, as she leads the association’s revenue strategy, and working closely with Chief Operating Officer Gretchen Hall, CDME and Chief Impact Officer Sophia Hyder Hock to expand DI’s impact and membership engagement, including through an expanded emphasis on advocacy. He also will assist DI Foundation Managing Director Chelsea Welter to continue to raise the profile of the foundation and identify new revenue opportunities.

Welsh commented on the extension: “I am grateful to the boards of both DI and the DI Foundation for their continued confidence and support, and deeply appreciative of our members for their continued belief in the mission of DI and our partners for the content, resources and support they provide. We have an outstanding team, and I could not be more energized to continue to lead DI’s important work through 2027.”