President’s Letter

It is my privilege and honor to begin my term as President of Workers in Travel this month. Although this term did not start as expected due to the COVID pandemic and the current lock down on travel, I have high hopes and expectations for the WITS organization.

My career in travel unofficially started more than 20 years ago. At the time I was working as a NYS Licensed Massage Therapist at my own practice in Samaritan Hospital. I always had a love and passion for travel. I would spend my down time researching destinations and travel deals. When I would discuss travel with my massage clients, it would often turn into me booking their vacations. At the time, I was unaware that it could be a career! One thing led to another and before I knew it, I was an Independent Contractor for a local Travel Agency, that was 17 years ago.

In 2011 I made the decision to open my own Travel Agency, Pack Your Bags Travel, and have been enjoying my passion ever since. I have been a member of WITS for 17 years and have also served as Recording Secretary, Board Member and now President.

Now more than ever we need the support of fellow agents and suppliers. WITS is here to provide support and encouragement. We are all in this together and we will come through this stronger.

To provide a clear road map and framework for success, WITS will be committed to following key areas of focus for the coming year:

• Have Fun and Enjoy Being A Member. We are going to make it an official rule this year – we must have fun! After all, we are Travel Agents—the fun people everyone wants to be around. We have been there, seen it and done that and will continue for many years to come.

• Keep the Education Coming. WITS is all about bringing its members up to date on destinations and product information.

• Increase Membership. An exciting campaign has already been initiated to reach out to the local travel agent community who are not currently members of WITS. We are also looking to bring in new Vendors/BDM’s to increase your networking and reach.

I welcome your thoughts and ideas on how we can continue to improve our organization and what you personally and professionally find beneficial as a member.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of WITS, thank you for your valued membership. We’re looking forward to a successful and productive year!

Warm regards,

Connie Dyer

WITS President 2020 – 2023
Pack Your Bags Travel
Ph. 518-833-6543
F. 518-833-0732
www.packyourbags-travel.com