Algonquin Territory (Ottawa, ON) The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is delighted to announce Teresa Ryder, Director of Partnerships has been elected Vice Chair of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada’s (TIAC). 

Elected at TIAC’s recent Annual General Meeting, Teresa Ryder will begin serving immediately and be part of the organization’s new all-female Board executive team. TIAC’s other new female Board executive team members are Chair: Nina Kressler, Shaw Centre and Vice Chair: Michelle Caine, Centennial College. 

Based in Ottawa, TIAC takes action on behalf of Canadian tourism businesses and promotes positive measures that help the industry grow and prosper. TIAC is responsible for representing tourism interests at the national level, and its advocacy work involves promoting and supporting policies, programs and activities that will benefit the sector’s growth and development.

“I am incredibly pleased to see national acknowledgement of the role of the Indigenous tourism sector with the election of Teresa Ryder to the Tourism of Association of Canada’s Board executive team,” says Keith Henry, ITAC President & CEO. “Her ongoing commitment and drive in the development and recovery of Indigenous tourism in Canada are well-respected in the industry. This election is a natural progression for Teresa’s career journey and she has proven once again that she is a natural leader.”

Ryder has progressed into different leadership roles with ITAC, starting as a Project Manager and most recently held the position of Director of Business Development. In her current role, Ryder implemented several initiatives including The Original Original Accreditation Program (formerly known as Rise) and the Stimulus Grant Funding. Her background includes a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology, years of experience in the hospitality industry, and work with the Indigenous Tourism Association of BC.

Learn more about TIAC’s board of directors here.