{"id":12222,"date":"2026-07-10T18:59:13","date_gmt":"2026-07-10T18:59:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/syta.org\/conference2026\/?page_id=12222"},"modified":"2026-07-22T12:52:34","modified_gmt":"2026-07-22T12:52:34","slug":"general-sessions","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/syta.org\/conference2026\/general-sessions\/","title":{"rendered":"General Sessions"},"content":{"rendered":"[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_fullwidth_image src=”https:\/\/syta.org\/conference2026\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2026\/07\/SYTA-Header-GENERAL-SESSIONS.jpg” title_text=”SYTA-Header-GENERAL SESSIONS” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_fullwidth_image][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”25px||20px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#0079A5″ custom_margin=”||17px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 | 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM<\/h3>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” min_height=”300px” custom_margin=”-2px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Kick Off Breakfast and SYTA Annual Meeting<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Kick off the first full day of the SYTA Annual Conference<\/strong> with breakfast and our annual meeting. All attendees are welcome to come grab breakfast, reconnect with familiar faces, and make new connections as we prepare to launch into a full schedule of appointments, education sessions, and networking events.<\/p>\n

Enjoy a special welcome from the team at VisitPITTSBURGH as they help set the stage for an exciting few days ahead. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet SYTA’s volunteer leaders and incoming Board of Directors and Board of Trustees. The session will also include recognition of our newest recipients of the CSTO and CSTP professional certifications, recognizing their commitment to excellence in student and youth travel.<\/p>\n

Additionally, we will honor the outstanding individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and commitment have made a lasting impact on student and youth travel through special SYTA and SYF awards.<\/p>\n

Whether you’re attending your first conference or your twentieth, this is the place to begin celebrating our community, recognizing excellence, and setting the stage for an incredible week together. Don’t miss the official start of the conference. We’ll save you a seat.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/syta.org\/conference2026\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2026\/07\/538210267_18001600388798584_437369481769711475_n.jpg” title_text=”538210267_18001600388798584_437369481769711475_n” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/syta.org\/conference2026\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2026\/07\/538689414_18001600454798584_3687514548658319181_n.jpg” title_text=”538689414_18001600454798584_3687514548658319181_n” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||4px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider color=”#eeeeee” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||17px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#0079A5″ global_colors_info=”{}”]

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 | 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM<\/h3>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-18px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Welcome Luncheon and Keynote, Sponsored by Disney<\/strong><\/h3>\n

After a productive morning of appointments, come together for our first large lunch of the week and get inspired. Join Conference Chair Brenden Rogers<\/strong> as he welcomes everyone and shares insider tips, must-see highlights, and practical advice to help you get the absolute most out of your time in Pittsburgh.<\/p>\n

Then, prepare for an incredible afternoon as our Strategic Partner, Disney<\/strong>, brings its signature world-class energy and presentation to our main stage. In partnership with Disney Imagination Campus<\/strong> and Disney on Broadway<\/strong>, this memorable luncheon experience will celebrate our community and the magic of travel.<\/p>\n

We are also finalizing the details for an exceptional keynote speaker to headline this session, alongside a few special surprises we can’t wait to reveal. Stay tuned for the official announcement coming soon. Come enjoy great food, great company, and an unforgettable celebration with your SYTA colleagues.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_5,3_5,1_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-40px|auto||auto||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/syta.org\/conference2026\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2026\/07\/SYTA-GS-WEB-2.jpg” title_text=”SYTA-GS-WEB-2″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-11px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-21px|auto||auto||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider color=”#eeeeee” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||17px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#0079A5″ global_colors_info=”{}”]

SUNDAY, AUGUST 23 | 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM<\/h3>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-18px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

International Luncheon, sponsored by Hangzhou Municipal Bureau of Tourism and the China National Tourist Office (NY)<\/strong><\/h3>\n

International student travel is on the rise and we are excited to celebrate this that global growth. As such, we are launching the first-ever SYTA International Showcase Luncheon\u2014an exciting new conference event celebrating the destinations, cultures, and global connections that keep student and youth travel exciting and meaningful.<\/p>\n

We are ecstatic to announce that the Hangzhou Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio, TV and Tourism <\/strong>(representing Hangzhou, China), the China National Tourist Office<\/strong> (representing the country of China), and Tourism Fiji<\/strong> (representing the Republic of Fiji in the South Pacific) have all come on board to sponsor and showcase their destinations. Throughout the luncheon, you’ll be immersed in the rich culture and experiences these destinations have to offer through international cuisine, stunning destination videos and a vibrant live cultural performance. It’s an inspiring opportunity to explore ideas and experiences that can help shape your international student travel programs for 2027 and beyond.\u00a0<\/p>\n

The journey continues with insightful remarks from an industry-leading expert on the economics and impact of international tourism, focusing on both inbound and outbound travel trends between nations.<\/p>\n

We will conclude the session by highlighting the SYTA Youth Foundation<\/strong>. Hear from Foundation Vice Chair Dayne Whitehurst<\/strong> about the extraordinary impact your support has had over the past year, and discover how we can continue opening the world to young people through transformative travel experiences.<\/p>\n

Do not miss this incredibly exciting luncheon\u2014and keep an eye out for a special pop-up surprise waiting for you where registration used to be right after the session concludes. Let’s make sure our international guests feel right at home and welcome them with the open-arms SYTA is known for.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#eeeeee” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||17px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#0079A5″ global_colors_info=”{}”]

MONDAY, AUGUST 24 | 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM<\/h3>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-18px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

The GLOBIES, Marketing Awards Breakfast, Sponsored by Golden Corral<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The more great content our industry produces, the more students, parents, and educators we reach. To celebrate and encourage that standard of storytelling, we are introducing our new annual marketing awards program: The Globies<\/strong>. Short for the Global Student Travel Marketing Awards, this program is designed to elevate student group travel marketing by recognizing the very best member-produced videos and campaigns that inspire people to travel.<\/p>\n

We are incredibly honored to announce that Nancy Mammana, Chief Marketing Officer of New York City Tourism + Conventions<\/strong>, will serve as the master of ceremonies for this inaugural event. Since joining her team in 2018, Nancy has spearheaded NYC Tourism\u2019s first rebrand in 26 years and completely overhauled its digital presence. With a distinguished career spanning leadership roles at the NBA, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and major global agencies, she brings an unmatched wealth of marketing expertise to our main stage to help us celebrate the best of the best.<\/p>\n

Winners will be announced live during this final breakfast of the SYTA Annual Conference in Pittsburgh on Monday, August 24, 2026<\/strong>, from 8:00 AM <\/strong>to 9:30 AM<\/strong>. Members will be recognized across four specialized categories, including Best Tour Operator Trip Inspiration Video, Best Destination Student Group Video, Best Student Group Sales Video<\/strong>, and an open category for unique multi-format campaigns called The Floating Goldie<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

A special thank you goes out to the team at Golden Corral<\/strong> for sponsoring the awards breakfast and the team at the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism<\/strong> for sponsoring the trophies for this year’s ceremony. The Globies<\/strong> are the start of a much larger conversation to give our sales and marketing teams a reason to push harder, and we are invested in giving every member the tools to compete. Come celebrate our community’s creativity, applaud your peers, and see who takes home the very first awards.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#eeeeee” _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||17px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#0079A5″ global_colors_info=”{}”]

MONDAY, AUGUST 24 | 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM<\/h3>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-18px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Closing Luncheon and Best of Broadway, Sponsored by Group Sales Box Office\/ Broadway.com<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Celebrating Our Future Together<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Join us as we bring the 2026 SYTA Annual Conference to a memorable close by celebrating our accomplishments, honoring leadership, and looking ahead to the future of our association.<\/p>\n

During this final luncheon, SYTA President Brent Imrie will reflect on his presidency, the milestones achieved together, and the strength of the SYTA community before ceremonially passing the gavel to incoming President Dave Henley. As SYTA’s first two-year President, Dave will take the stage to share his vision and priorities for the years ahead, offering an inspiring look at what’s next for our association and the student and youth travel industry.<\/p>\n

We will then turn our attention to the future as we officially welcome Ottawa Tourism, our host destination for the 2027 SYTA Annual Conference. Get a first look at what awaits us next year through a special destination presentation and video that will have you ready to pack your bags for Canada.<\/p>\n

Conference Chair Brenden will return to the stage to reflect on an incredible week and thank the volunteers, sponsors, speakers, and attendees who made it all possible.<\/p>\n

To send us off in style, our session sponsor, Group Sales Box Office \/ Broadway.com, will bring the magic of New York to Pittsburgh as Best of Broadway takes the stage for an unforgettable, show-stopping musical finale. We want to extend a massive thank you to their team for flying in dozens of Broadway performers for this conference. Their sponsorship of this incredible entertainment block showcases their continued dedication to the student market. Please show their team your immense appreciation for all the behind-the-scenes work that goes into making this a reality.<\/p>\n

Come celebrate where we’ve been, embrace where we’re going, and help us close out an incredible week together.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_5,3_5,1_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/syta.org\/conference2026\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2026\/07\/SYTA-GS-WEB-3.jpg” title_text=”SYTA-GS-WEB-3″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.27.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 | 8:00 AM – 9:00 AMKick Off Breakfast and SYTA Annual Meeting Kick off the first full day of the SYTA Annual Conference with breakfast and our […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":7240,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"

Coming soon!<\/p>

\u00a0<\/p>","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-12222","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/syta.org\/conference2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/12222","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/syta.org\/conference2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/syta.org\/conference2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/syta.org\/conference2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/syta.org\/conference2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12222"}],"version-history":[{"count":16,"href":"https:\/\/syta.org\/conference2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/12222\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12359,"href":"https:\/\/syta.org\/conference2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/12222\/revisions\/12359"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/syta.org\/conference2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7240"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/syta.org\/conference2026\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12222"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}