Cardigan Connor, Minister of Health, Sports and Tourism, has appointed former Anguilla Tourist Board (ATB) Director of Tourism, Mrs. Amelia Vanterpool-Kubisch as Chair of the ATB’s Board of Directors. Connor presented his nominees for the ATB Board of Directors to Premier Cora Richardson-Hodge and the Executive Council for approval prior to the official announcement.
The newly appointed Board of Directors will consist of private-sector tourism industry professionals representing accommodations, restaurants, transportation, and events. The members include Merlyn Rogers, a tourism consultant; Merla Halley, General Manager of Quintessence Hotel; Sean Richards, General Manager of Altamer Resort; Miguel Leveret, General Manager of Blanchards; Likerah Adams, Chairperson of the Boat Racing Association; and Allister Carty, an executive expert in ground transportation.
In announcing the appointment, the Minister remarked, “Amelia brings a wealth of experience to her new role as Chairperson of the ATB. With more familiarity with the organization than anyone else, coupled with her extensive public and private sector background, she is well positioned to help drive the success of Anguilla’s tourism industry.” He added, “She will be supported by a dynamic board that truly reflects the full spectrum of the industry. I am confident that this team will provide strong leadership and uphold the highest standards of accountability for the organization.”
Vanterpool-Kubisch began her career in Anguilla’s public tourism sector in 1978 as the first employee of the newly established Tourism Offices. In 1994, the Anguilla Tourist Board (ATB) was created, leading to the development and opening of its permanent offices in April 2003, marking an essential milestone in the island’s tourism evolution. Over the years, Vanterpool-Kubisch steadily advanced through the ranks and, after three decades of dedicated service, retired in 2008 as the Director of Tourism for the ATB. She held this leadership role for 16 years, leaving an indelible mark on Anguilla’s tourism industry, the island’s largest source of foreign exchange. Vanterpool-Kubisch’s passion for Anguilla and her execptional contributions to its tourism industry has been recognized, earning her several prestigious honors, including the Anguilla Pioneer Award in 2011 and the Anguilla Trailblazer Award in 2021.
In accepting the appointment, Vanterpool-Kubisch stated, “I am deeply honored by the confidence this administration has placed in me to lead the ATB as we navigate the challenges in a constantly changing industry. Our sales and marketing strategies must adapt to the diverse and emerging platforms that now shape consumer behavior. I am fully committed to this role and will dedicate myself to the tasks ahead.”
