• Industry Panel Discussion: Hear from key representatives of airlines, hotels, and restaurants as they share their strategies for championing diversity, promoting sustainable travel, and driving economic growth in San Francisco.
• Keynote Presentation: Gain valuable insights from a featured speaker from the San Francisco Travel Association, who will discuss the organization’s vision for fostering a thriving travel industry and supporting local businesses.
• Spotlight on Success: Discover innovative partnerships and impactful programs that are reshaping the city's travel landscape while uplifting diverse communities and contributing to San Francisco's economy.
• This program is an excellent opportunity to connect with industry peers, gain fresh perspectives, and learn how collective efforts are shaping the future of travel and hospitality in one of the world's most dynamic cities. 

Featured Panelists

Robert Merrill
Sr. Manager, Insights & Solutions, Business Partner Management, United Airlines
Robert has been soaring with United Airlines for 14 years and currently leads the Insights & Solutions team within Business Partner Management. As Pride Chair for EQUAL, United’s LGBTQ+ Business Resource Group, Robert champions inclusion through nationwide Pride activations and as team captain for AIDS/LifeCycle. A longtime Bay Area resident, Robert is passionate about mentoring, building inclusive communities, and elevating the travel experience for all.

Cassandra Costello
Executive Vice President, Chief Strategy Officer, San Francisco Travel Association
Cassandra brings over two decades of experience in public policy, community advocacy, and economic development. She has led transformative initiatives, including the $20M Welcome Ambassador Program and the renewal of the Tourism Improvement District, which secured $28M in funding for San Francisco tourism. A strategic leader and passionate advocate for equity, Cassandra is shaping the future of the city’s visitor economy with bold, people-centered solutions.

Quave Burton
Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Executive
Quave is a recognized expert in strategic sourcing with a focus on marketing and indirect spend. Known for turning procurement into a driver of innovation and long-term value, she leads with data, collaboration, and a pragmatic mindset. A proud member of Chief, the premier executive network for women leaders, Quave brings a sharp eye for strategy and a deep commitment to empowering others in business and beyond.

Moderated by Heather Parodi

Chapter President, BABTA
Heather’s career spans both the supplier and buyer sides of travel, from sales roles with Marriott, Hilton, and The Ritz-Carlton, to corporate travel leadership at Chevron, Bank of the West/BNP Paribas, and Ross Stores. A dedicated GBTA Bay Area Chapter leader, Heather brings heart and humor to everything she does—and credits the chapter with giving her not just a professional network, but a community of lifelong friends.

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Thank you to our Diamond Sponsors:

Thank you to our Meeting Host: