Tributes paid to IGLTA chief John Tanzella after death aged 61

The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association’s president and chief executive John Tanzella has died aged 61 after an extended illness.

He led the organisation for 20 years, "with compassion, kindness and the unwavering belief that LGBTQ+ travelers should feel welcome everywhere in the world," according to a statement from the association.

Tanzella leaves a legacy of advancing LGBTQ+ travel and steering the association to become the well-respected group it is today.

“The desire to give back to the industry he loved so much was the driving force behind the creation of the philanthropic IGLTA Foundation in 2012, providing much-needed LGBTQ+ leadership, research and education globally,” a statement said.

Paying tribute, chair Meg Ten Eyck said: “This loss is immeasurable. John was a visionary leader with an enormous heart, who made friends everywhere he went and inspired support around the globe.

“He made IGLTA what it is today and his presence will be felt in everything we do for years to come

“At IGLTA, we often refer to our global community as family, and John truly made that a reality. He built a deeply connected team that has been leading the association alongside a passionate board of directors during his absence. We will ensure that the association he loved so much continues to grow and thrive.”

The association requested those wishing to make a donation in his memory contribute to the IGLTA Foundation, where the John Tanzella Fellowship Fund is being established in his honour with the aim of elevating LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs in emerging destinations.

Finance vice president Tony Warner, who has overseen the association’s finances for 16 years, will move into the position of interim CEO.