Accessibility Superstars

Only a select few have been named as TravelAbility’s Accessibility Superstars. These industry leaders have gone beyond tireless advocacy to complete cultural overhauls. Their efforts have not only transformed policies, practices, and mindsets, but have also inspired global movement towards equitable travel experiences. They have laid a new foundation for an accessible future.

2025 Accessibility Superstars

Toni Bastian

Visit Richmond

Group Tour & Visitor Center Manager

Toni Bastian from Visit Richmond has transformed accessibility from a checklist into a mindset. Under her leadership, Richmond’s tourism culture now embraces accessibility as a core value—from frontline hospitality to strategic planning. Toni’s efforts have enabled local businesses to see accessibility not as an obligation, but as an opportunity to welcome all travelers with dignity and warmth.

View Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toni-bastian-tmp-606b246/

Sasha Blair-Goldensohn

Google

Google Maps Engineer / Disability Activist

Sasha Blair-Goldensohn from Google Maps has redefined what it means to build for everyone. His advocacy has sparked systemic change within Google, embedding accessibility into product development, UX design, and global mapping standards. Sasha’s lived experience and relentless drive have helped cultivate a culture where accessibility has been a model for innovation. In addition to mapping accessibility, he’s actively advocating for building accessibility as the voice behind NYC’s commitment to an accessible Metro system.

View Profile: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_0zh54S6mM

Tami Reist

Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association

President/CEO

Tami Reist from North Alabama Mountains and Lakes has championed accessibility across rural tourism with unmatched zeal and creativity. She’s cultivated a regional culture where accessibility is a celebrated value. From training local partners to spotlighting accessible trails and attractions, Tami’s leadership ensures that accessibility is not just an afterthought—it’s proudly visible in every visitor experience.

View Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tami-gorham-reist-0a7aa271/

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2024 Accessibility Superstars

Ron Kuzon

The Schoolhouse Hotel

Owner

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.

Cassie Ivey

Charlottesville Albemarle Convention & Visitors Bureau

Director of Visitor and Community Engagement

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.

View Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassie-ivey-0a153817a/

Ron Pettit

Royal Caribbean Group

Head of Disability Inclusion & ADA Compliance

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.

View Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronpettit/

Kevin Wright

Travel Oregon

Vice President, Global Marketing

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.

View Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-wright-bb98a03/

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