MEDIA RELEASE

The Travel Institute mourns loss of board member, friend, and industry leader Scott Ahlsmith

FRAMINGHAM, MA, January 2, 2024 – The Travel Institute announces the loss of board of trustees and executive committee member, industry thought leader, and travel advisor advocate Scott Ahlsmith, CTC, who passed away December 25 after a long-term illness.

“We bid goodbye to a friend and a leader. Scott leaves a legacy of innovation in business and technology that helped propel the industry forward for many decades,” shared Gary Pollard, CTC, chairman of the board of trustees for The Travel Institute. With a career dating back to 1972, Ahlsmith first joined The Travel Institute board in 2002, was the longest sitting member, and served as its chairman for eight years.

Ahlsmith was also active beyond the travel industry, volunteering on the Tacoma-area KPLU Community Advisory Council and as a board member for KNKX Public Radio. “Scott had wisdom of mind and clarity of thought. He listened more than he talked but always had something insightful to contribute,” shared Joey Cohn, KNKX president and general manager, adding Ahlsmith “pushed the station to get serious about cyber security and, more recently, to embrace AI technology.”

From owning his own agency to being an expert on travel technology and distribution, Ahlsmith brought a depth of knowledge to his board role, where he was considered a thought leader amongst thought leaders. “Scott’s dedication to our non-profit mission has made a lasting and positive impact. He led by example, and by engaging on a meaningful level through mentoring, training, coaching, and investing in the education of others,” reflected Pollard. “He was a forward-thinker with big ideas. We are grateful for his many contributions.”

Scott was preceded in death by his father, Gene; sister, Sana; and is survived by his mother, Eleanor;, brother-in-law, Duane; son, Taylor; daughter-in-law, Rachel; granddaughter, Olivia; and partner and friend, Kristi Jones. See the family tribute.

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