CTO honors Jacqueline Johnson with Legacy Award

The Caribbean Tourism Organization has recognized Jacqueline Johnson for decades of leadership in tourism education and mentorship as the CTO Foundation nears its 30th anniversary. The award highlights the Foundation’s push to expand scholarships and professional development for the next generation of Caribbean tourism leaders.

Why it matters: - The Caribbean Tourism Organization is spotlighting education as a long-term driver of tourism growth across the region. - Jacqueline Johnson’s recognition underscores the CTO Foundation’s role in building a pipeline of Caribbean tourism talent. - The Foundation has awarded major scholarships to 128 students and study grants to 186 more. - The organization has raised more than US$1.0 million to fund those educational opportunities.

What happened: - The Caribbean Tourism Organization presented Jacqueline Johnson with the Caribbean Tourism Organization Legacy Award. - The honor recognizes Johnson’s decades of work in Caribbean tourism, education and mentorship. - The announcement came as the CTO Foundation approaches its 30th anniversary. - Johnson serves as chair of the CTO Foundation Board of Directors. - She was a founding member of the CTO Foundation Board when it was established 27 years ago by former CTO Secretary General Dr. Gene Holder.

The details: - The CTO Foundation was created in 1997 to support a globally competitive and sustainable tourism industry. - The Foundation is registered in New York as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. - The Foundation provides scholarships and professional development opportunities for Caribbean nationals pursuing tourism, hospitality, language studies and related fields. - Johnson said the Foundation is grateful for the chance to invest in talented young Caribbean nationals whose passion will shape the future of the industry. - Johnson said tourism is powered by people and that education today strengthens the Caribbean’s competitiveness for generations. - Johnson is president and CEO of Global Bridal Group, a multimedia company focused on branding, media, e-commerce and destination marketing. - Global Bridal Group focuses especially on romance travel. - Johnson is an authority on destination weddings and honeymoons. - She has spent more than three decades helping destinations build romance tourism programs through marketing, partnerships and consumer engagement. - Her career includes senior roles at Condé Nast Bridal Group, Bridal Guide and New York Magazine. - Earlier in her career, Johnson was vice president and media director at a Madison Avenue advertising agency, where she led campaigns for cruise lines, hotels, tourism boards and travel companies. - Johnson has moderated international marketing forums, hosted bridal symposiums and led educational seminars around the world. - Her work has brought together destinations, travel advisors, media and industry stakeholders to advance the romance travel market. - Johnson’s leadership philosophy is reflected in the quote, “Give a man a fish, you feed him for a day; teach him to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.” - Johnson has received the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s Tourism Medal of Excellence. - Her other honors include Jamaica’s Marcella Martinez Award, the Jerry Award for Outstanding Support of Caribbean Tourism and MarryCaribbean.com’s Service Award of Excellence. - Johnson is a Certified Travel Counselor. - She participates in the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association, the Pacific Asia Travel Association and the Africa Travel Association. - More information is available at cto-foundation.com.

Between the lines: - The award reflects a broader industry emphasis on talent development, not just destination promotion. - Johnson’s profile bridges philanthropy, tourism marketing and education, which makes her a visible example of the Foundation’s mission. - The Foundation’s scholarship totals suggest a sustained, long-running program rather than a one-time campaign.

What's next: - The CTO Foundation is expected to keep centering scholarships, mentorship and professional development as it enters its 30th year. - Johnson’s recognition may help reinforce fundraising and awareness around Caribbean tourism education efforts. - The Foundation says it will continue investing in Caribbean nationals preparing for tourism-related careers.

The bottom line: - The Legacy Award puts a spotlight on one leader and one bigger message: Caribbean tourism’s future depends on training the next generation now.