Indigenous Tourism Association CEO Appointed to US Travel and Tourism Advisory Board

by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 11:55 AM ET, Tue January 28, 2025

AIANTA, Sherry L. Rupert, native american tourism, us tourism, people

The American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association’s (AIANTA) CEO, Sherry L. Rupert (Paiute/Washoe) will serve on the US Travel and Tourism Advisory Board (TTAB) for a two-year term in the Department of Commerce.

The appointment is her second term and is considered a positive step for Indigenous representation in the nation’s tourism industry. Members of the TTAB are advisors on tourism to the Secretary of Commerce, offering counsel on current and emerging issues in the industry.

Rupert has over two decades of executive-level experience promoting Indigenous tourism. She is the leading voice for the $15.7-billion Indigenous hospitality sector in the US.

“I’m honored to join the board of directors for the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board and to represent all Native Nations and communities in our national tourism story,” said Sherry L. Rupert. “The TTAB plays a key role in providing expert recommendations and industry insight to enhance the American travel experience and I look forward to ensuring Indigenous voices have a seat at the table.”

She served previously as President of AIANTA’s Board of Directors, during which she worked with Congress to pass the Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor Experience (NATIVE) Act in 2016 and has previously served as the executive director of the State of Nevada Indian Commission.

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