TravelAbility Insider

The Intersection of Travel and Disability

Accessibility Awards

Accessibility Champions of Change to Watch for 2025

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Ross Calladine | HOST

Ross Calladine, Accessibility Inclusion Leader, Visit England.  Revolutionizing Hospitality with Accessibility Tools for the Industry.

Ross has revolutionized the hospitality industry by creating a comprehensive online toolkit that is available for all travel-related businesses in England. His innovative resources empower establishments to enhance accessibility, ensuring inclusive experiences for all visitors, regardless of their needs. By fostering collaboration between businesses and accessibility experts, Calladine has set a new standard for hospitality that prioritizes inclusivity and customer satisfaction.

Our Founders - Ocean Holidays

Harry Hastings, Co-CEO at Ocean Holidays. Pioneering Outbound Accessible Tourism to America.

Harry has significantly impacted the tourism sector with the groundbreaking Accessible Florida tour program in the UK. This initiative in it’s first year, attracted over 6000 passengers and generated over $17mn in revenue, showcasing the market’s potential for inbound accessible travel. Hastings’ commitment to promoting inclusiveness in tourism has inspired other companies to adopt similar programs including TUI, one of  Europe’s three  largest travel companies, which partnered with AccessAble to produce a detailed accessibility guide to 200 hotels.

All Wheels Up — Wheelchair Travel Safety - ABILITY Magazine

Michele Erwin, Founder, All Wheels Up. An Early Champion of Wheelchairs on Flights.

Michele is a relentless advocate for seamless travel experiences for individuals with mobility challenges. Her tireless campaigns have successfully influenced major airlines, including Delta, to accommodate wheelchairs on flights, marking a critical step towards inclusivity in air travel. Erwin’s efforts have not only raised awareness about the barriers faced by travelers with disabilities but have also prompted significant policy changes within the aviation industry, paving the way for the prospect for wheelchairs in the main cabin and fewer in the repair shop.

Steve Nelson, Accessibility Diversity Program Manager, Alaska Airlines. Innovating Accessibility at Alaska Airlines

In 2024, Alaska Airlines has made significant strides in enhancing accessibility for passengers with diverse needs by orchestrating autism practice sessions across multiple cities as well as “Fly for All,” an app with Infiniteach that provides know-before-you-fly simulations. Additionally, Alaska Air has successfully implemented self-driving wheelchairs at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), giving passengers a unique experience while addressing a solution to the shortage of airport wheelchair assistants. 

Tami Reist, CEO of North Alabama Mountains and Lakes. Building Inclusive Tourism in North Alabama

Tami has been a strong advocate for inclusive tourism for many years. She has financially supported sensory training for hotels across 16 counties, which included practice overnight stays at the trained hotels. In 2025, her region will host a Familiarization (FAM) tour featuring 10 content creators with various disabilities, including Down Syndrome, mobility, visual and hearing impairments, and PTSD. This initiative will effectively demonstrate the region’s commitment to accessible tourism by creating itineraries tailored for visitors with diverse disabilities, thereby raising awareness about the importance of inclusivity in the hospitality industry.

Destinations International's Chief Diversity Officer on Complex Task Ahead

Sophia Hyder Hock, Chief Inclusion Officer, Destinations International (DI). Leading the DMO Charge for Inclusive Travel.

Sophia Hyder Hock has played a crucial role in advancing accessibility as an essential component of social inclusion, representing the next evolution of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) initiatives. Under her leadership, (DI) has partnered with TravelAbility to develop The Accessibility Playbook, a comprehensive resource designed to empower their destination members with the essential tools and strategies to ensure that travel experiences are inclusive and accessible for all visitors, regardless of their abilities. Through her leadership, DI is not only enhancing the travel experience for individuals with diverse needs but also promoting a more equitable and inclusive tourism landscape for all.  www.destinationsinternational.org

Gordon Hartman, Founder, Morgan’s Wonderland. Creating a World of Fun for All. 

Gordon Hartman is the visionary founder of Morgan’s Wonderland, the world’s first Ultra Accessible™ theme park, which is located in San Antonio, TX, and is specifically designed for individuals with disabilities but built to be enjoyed by everyone.  Featuring 25 Ultra-Accessible™ attractions,  each of which is thoughtfully designed to ensure that individuals of all abilities can participate and enjoy the fun.

Recognizing the need for Ultra Accommodating™ hotel rooms or accommodations, Morgan’s will break ground in early 2025 on a 95-room hotel property that they believe will be the most accessible hotel in the world. Gordon Hartman is not only changing lives but also advocating for a more inclusive world where everyone can thrive. https://morgans.org/

Rick Hayduk/Rich Davies, Co-Founders, The Shepherd Hotel Downtown Clemson, Clemson, SC. 

Example of Inclusive Employment that also offers a solution for the workforce shortage in Hospitality. Rick and Rich have championed the concept of inclusive employment at The Shepherd Hotel Downtown Clemson, which is leading the way in promoting inclusive employment practices within the hospitality industry. Under their leadership, the hotel has made a significant commitment to hiring individuals with intellectual disabilities, providing them with meaningful job opportunities across a variety of positions. The collaborates with Clemson University’s LIFE program (an Inclusionary Post Secondary pogram for students with IDs), local organizations and community groups to raise awareness about the capabilities of individuals with intellectual disabilities, challenging stereotypes and promoting a more inclusive society. Their efforts have inspired other hotels and businesses to consider similar practices, thereby expanding the impact of their work beyond the hotel itself. Two new Shepherd Hotels are set to open in late 2025, early 2026 (Columbia, SC and Rock Hill, SC).

Dr. Julian Maha, Founder, KultureCity. Passionate Advocate for Sensory Inclusion.

Ten years ago, Dr. Maha co-founded KultureCity, an organization dedicated to promoting sensory inclusion and improving accessibility for individuals with sensory processing needs. Recognizing the need for effective and affordable solutions, KultureCity pioneered a comprehensive sensory inclusion training program that has been successfully implemented in over 5000 locations across the United States, including all NBA arenas, NFL and MLB locations.By raising awareness about sensory processing disorders and the importance of inclusion, he has helped to create a more welcoming atmosphere for individuals with autism, ADHD, PTSD, and other sensory sensitivities.

Nicole Bergstrom, Senior Director at Hilton Hotels. A Committed voice for Accessibility at Hilton Hotels  

Nicole has played a pivotal role in advancing accessibility advocacy within the hospitality industry. Nicole’s journey in accessibility began with her passionate leadership in digital accessibility, where she worked to ensure that Hilton’s online platforms and services are user-friendly for all guests, including those with disabilities. This led to the establishment of a groundbreaking partnership with BeMyEyes, an organization that connects blind and visually impaired individuals with volunteers through a mobile app. This collaboration aims to create accessible environments across all Hilton properties, ensuring that guests with visual impairments feel welcomed and accommodated during their stays. 

Sophie Morgan, Accessibility Columnist, Conde Nast Traveler (UK). 

Amplifying Disability Advocacy Through Media. Sophie Morgan is a prominent TV presenter and provocative disability advocate who has significantly raised awareness and visibility for individuals with disabilities through her engaging media presence and irreverence.  As a correspondent during NBC’s unprecedented coverage of the Paris Paralympic Games, Sophie’s media recognition and fearlessness has drawn attention to the plight of wheelchair travelers everywhere.  Just check out this post  “ Pets Have More Rights on Flights Than We Have.  www.sophiemorgan.com

Sasha Blair-Goldensohn | Architectural Digest

Sasha Blair-Goldensohn, Accessibility and Disability Inclusion Lead, Google Maps

Trailblazer in Accessibility at Google Maps. Sasha has played a pivotal role in transforming Maps into an indispensable tool for finding accessible places, transit and walking routes, and accessibility details for more than 50 million global businesses.

Accessibility Superstars: Celebrating Champions of Inclusive Travel

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As the Accessibility Superstars Awards enter their second year, TravelAbility recognizes some of the brightest innovators in the travel industry. The TravelAbility Superstars Awards celebrate those who are not just leading in their field but are also pioneering efforts to make travel more inclusive and accessible for everyone.

These awards honor the forward-thinkers who are making it possible for travelers of all abilities to experience the world with greater ease, dignity, and joy. 

This year’s honorees exemplify what it means to be champions of accessibility, demonstrating how dedication and creativity can transform challenges into opportunities. From reimagining travel experiences to advocating for inclusive policies, they inspire us all to envision a future where every journey is seamless, enriching, and welcoming for all abilities.

Please congratulate this year’s TravelAbility Superstars as we honor their achievements and learn from their transformative contributions to the world of travel.

Ron Kuzon, The Schoolhouse Hotel

Ron Kuzon is the new owner of The Schoolhouse Hotel in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, where he plans to transform the historic site into an accessible destination campus. With a background in securities law and a passion for disability rights, Ron combines legal expertise and business experience in the disability industry. He and his partners purchased the hotel in 2024 from Charlie and Nanci Hammerman of the Disability Opportunity Fund. Ron’s vision includes accessible accommodations, shopping, dining, and performing arts. His plans for renovations aim to make White Sulphur Springs a global destination for accessible travel. Committed to inclusivity, Ron focuses on seamless experiences for guests with sensory, cognitive, and mobility challenges. He also aims to revitalize the town by boosting local businesses, creating jobs, and enriching the community with new cultural offerings.

Ron Pettit, Royal Caribbean Group

Ron Pettit is a global leader in disability inclusion, known for his innovative approach to accessibility and creating inclusive environments. As head of Disability Inclusion at Royal Caribbean, he developed the world’s only global cruise program for the autism market, reaching 75 million people worldwide. His work has earned him recognition as a leading advocate for disability rights in the corporate world. Ron has a track record of driving large-scale initiatives, influencing senior leadership, and fostering organizational engagement in disability inclusion. He is also a dedicated mentor and passionate spokesperson, inspiring change within Royal Caribbean and beyond. Through his efforts, Ron shows that accessibility is key to building a more inclusive world.

Cassie Ivey, Charlottesville Albemarle Convention & Visitors Bureau

Cassie Ivey is the Director of Visitor and Community Engagement for the Charlottesville Albemarle Convention & Visitors Bureau (CACVB), where she works in strengthening the connection between the local community and visitors. With a great passion for showcasing the 

region’s rich history and culture, Cassie leads efforts to enhance visitor experiences while supporting locals and sustainable tourism practices.She collaborates with local businesses, organizations, and residents to create impactful initiatives that promote both tourism and community development. Through her work, Cassie helps ensure that Charlottesville and Albemarle County remain top destinations, fostering an inclusive and thriving tourism environment for both visitors and locals.

Kevin Wright, Travel Oregon

Kevin Wright is the Vice President of Brand Stewardship at Travel Oregon, where he leads strategic initiatives to enhance the state’s visibility as a premier travel destination.  Kevin is responsible for developing and executing the market awareness strategy, overseeing branding, advertising, promotion, and sales outcomes to support Travel Oregon’s mission. He also manages talent, budgets, and collaborates with industry organizations to advise local communities and businesses. Kevin also serves on the advisory board for Travelability, focused on making travel more accessible. Kevin continues to elevate Oregon’s presence in the travel industry while creating partnerships that benefit the state’s tourism economy.

The Envelope Please…Winners of the 2024 InnovateAble Pitchfest Are…

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This year’s presenters impressed judges with tech that is reshaping the world, even beyond the travel industry. Read the summary here, and be sure to congratulate the winners.

First Place: 360 Direct Video. See their award-winning pitch here.

Second Place (tie): Hero Door Opener and Be My Eyes. Check out the Here Door Opener pitch here, and the Be My Eyes pitch here.

Third Place: Aira. Find Aira’s pitch here.

A special thanks to our judges:

Allie Rowe, Marriott

Allison Rowe is a hospitality leader deeply committed to operational excellence and disability inclusion, ensuring every guest experience is seamless and welcoming. As Director of Rooms & Guest Experience at Global Operations, she has introduced accessible technologies, comprehensive training programs, and inclusive practices that meet the diverse needs of today’s travelers. A mentor and advocate, Allison fosters a culture of inclusivity within her teams, embedding accessibility as a core value across all aspects of hospitality—from room design to service delivery—while shaping a more equitable and inclusive future for the industry.

Ron Petit, Royal Caribbean

As the Head of Disability Inclusion at Royal Caribbean, Ron Petit he developed the world’s only global cruise program tailored to the autism community, impacting an estimated 75 million individuals. With a career focused on advancing accessibility and fostering cultural change, Ron has influenced senior leadership, mentored teams, and collaborated with stakeholders to embed inclusion across organizational practices. A passionate advocate, he combines strategic vision and hands-on expertise to inspire lasting progress, proving that accessibility is fundamental to creating a more equitable world.

Paul Kent, disABLED Life Alliance

Paul Kent is the founder of disAbled Life Alliance (dALA), a nonprofit established in 2022 to create sustainable change for individuals with disabilities by addressing disparities in healthcare, employment, and access to vital resources. Leveraging his business acumen and a patient capital approach, Paul leads dALA in structuring and executing high-impact programs and technologies that improve quality of life while amplifying the social impact of private funders. Under his leadership, dALA has become a key driver of innovation and collaboration in the disability sector, advancing accessibility and inclusivity through measurable, long-term solutions.

Jeff Ossenkop GM San Francisco, W Hotel

Jeff Ossenkop is a seasoned hospitality leader with over 22 years of experience in boutique, luxury, and full-service hotel management. As General Manager of the W Hotel San Francisco, he excels in overseeing complex transitions, enhancing revenue, and fostering exceptional guest and team experiences in the heart of SoMa. Previously, Jeff led the historic restoration of The Tremont House and launched Canopy by Hilton San Francisco SoMa, earning accolades like Marriott’s Hotel Opening of the Year award and recognition on Galveston’s 40 Under 40 list for his contributions to the industry and community.

Ron Kuzon, Owner,The Schoolhouse Hotel

The School Hotel in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia is the world’s first fully ADA-compliant hotel, ensuring comfortable stays for neurodivergent individuals including those with mobility issues, blindness, and deafness. This fully accessible boutique hotel transformed the former historic White Sulphur Springs schoolhouse into a hub for the community and visitors alike. It features 30 uniquely appointed guest rooms, an upscale southern cuisine restaurant, rooftop bar and flexible ballroom space perfect for weddings, conferences and so much more. The Schoolhouse Hotel showcases the best in West Virginia lodging in a completely inclusive atmosphere, leading the way in inclusion in hospitality.

Accessibility Champion: Brett Laiken

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Chief Marketing Officer, Visit Florida

Note: This interview is part of an ongoing series featuring interviews with 24 Champions of Accessibility for 2024 selected and celebrated by TravelAbility.

Q: When did you begin focusing on accessibility in your destination and what was the impetus for wanting to make your destination more accessible?

We don’t have a tipping point where we decided we needed to start focusing on accessibility – it’s just continued to grow organically. 

We’ve been inspired by real travelers and we use real families for our marketing. That said, we did launch a series, Limitless Florida, three years ago. Limitless Florida is a video series that shares the story of Floridians with different abilities and shows how Florida offers them and their families the experiences they’re looking for.

Q: What are your main responsibilities and tasks in your organization?


I am the CMO for VISIT FLORIDA and I oversee all marketing activity for the organization. This includes ensuring collaboration across various disciplines to align on messaging and focus.

Q: Aside from budget, what are the most difficult obstacles or barriers that you face regarding the advancement of accessibility in your destination? What initiatives have you undertaken to improve accessibility in your destination, and which are you most proud of?

With a state the size of Florida, there are vast differences between regions.As such, there are also differences in offerings. We lean into each individual destination’s ability to support those with different abilities. 

We launched a partnership with Wheel the World with VISIT FLORIDA covering 50% of the destination audit. We did this to remove any potential budgetary obstacles and to improve the statewide promotion of accessibility. Additionally, we have hosted numerous webinars to educate partners on how to be the most accessible destination, business, attraction, etc. 

Q: Who do you follow? Name an organization/company/individual you look to for ideas or inspiration. 

Since our partnership has been built with Wheel the World, I follow them to see how they are trailblazing a path for others to follow. They share content from content creators who are real people they work with, such as Curb Free Cory, who showcase their travel journey throughout Florida. I also follow Florida visitors to see what they are enjoying in our state. Our team then looks for ways to share these same experiences with those who have different abilities.

Q: What are your plans around accessibility in 2024/2025?

We will continue to promote accessible adventure in our marketing while also continuing to partner with our DMOs to provide educational opportunities along the way. A new effort for this coming year is a greater emphasis on educating travel agents on accessibility in Florida, so that they can be our ambassadors.

InnovateAble Pitch of the Month

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Each month we feature the 3-minute pitch from an innovation, technology or amenity presented at the 2024 InnovateAble Showcase held on July 26th. 

Be My Eyes won Judges’ Selection with this pitch. Be My Eyes is a visionary platform connecting blind and visually impaired individuals in customer call centers and visitor centers with Chat GTP 4  AI visual interpreters. Check out their winning pitch, here.