All Things Business Travel: GBTA North Central Newsletter Print

President's Report

Hello Members,

As we settle back into our fall programming, I want to start by saying how wonderful it was to reconnect with so many of you over the past few months. From seeing familiar faces and making new connections at GBTA Convention in Chicago to welcoming everyone back at our September chapter meeting, I was reminded once again of the strength of our community and the relationships that make GBTA North Central so special.

 The energy and enthusiasm at both events reinforced what makes our chapter unique: a community of professionals committed to learning, sharing ideas, and supporting one another's success. I especially enjoyed the thoughtful roundtable discussions during our September meeting. Hearing perspectives from both buyers and suppliers sparked meaningful conversations, challenged assumptions, and reminded us that some of our best learning happens when we take the time to listen, share experiences, and better understand one another's viewpoints.

 For me personally, this season has been a reminder of how impactful GBTA can be throughout a career. I first joined GBTA North Central more than a decade ago as a business transient sales manager eager to learn from experienced industry professionals. After returning as a member in 2023, serving as an Allied Board Member, and I am honored to now serve as President Elect.

 Over the summer, the Board came together for a strategic planning session centered on a simple theme: Honor the Past. Build the Future. We reflected on the strong foundation built by those who came before us while identifying new opportunities to strengthen the value we provide to members today and for years to come.

 As we look ahead, our focus remains on delivering meaningful education, increasing buyer engagement, creating opportunities for members to connect, and ensuring that membership in GBTA North Central provides tangible value for everyone involved. We are exploring new ways to elevate member voices, strengthen partnerships, expand networking opportunities, and continue building a chapter that reflects the evolving needs of business travel professionals.

 One of the most exciting opportunities on the horizon is our role as host chapter for the 2027 GBTA Leadership Summit in Minneapolis. Welcoming chapter leaders from across the country provides a tremendous opportunity to showcase not only our city, but also the innovation, hospitality, and collaborative spirit that define our chapter. Planning is already underway, and I look forward to sharing more in the months ahead.

 None of this happens without the dedication of our volunteers, committee leaders, sponsors, and members. Thank you for the time, energy, and passion you invest in this organization. Whether you're attending an event, serving on a committee, mentoring a new member, or simply engaging with fellow professionals, you help shape the future of our chapter every day.

 As we move into the remainder of 2026, I encourage you to stay connected, get involved, and continue building relationships across our community. The future of GBTA.

North Central is bright, and I couldn't be more excited about what we'll accomplish together.

 Danielle Ladd
President Elect, GBTA North Central

 

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Meeting Recap

September Roundtable Discussions Recap:

Thank you to everyone who participated in our September roundtable discussions, where travel managers and supplier partners came together to share insights, challenges, and innovative ideas for the future of business travel.

From traveler experience and duty of care to AI, sustainability, SAF, and supplier partnership strategies, the conversations were thoughtful, interactive, and packed with practical takeaways.

We are especially grateful to the Hilton Minneapolis-St Paul Airport for providing a beautiful meeting space and an outstanding lunch, creating the perfect setting for networking, learning, and collaboration.

Survey Reminder!

Please watch for our survey about meeting cadence and location. Your participation allows us to better serve our member base.

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Dates to Remember

October Monthly Meeting

October 8, 2026 | 3:00–5:30 PM
📍 Northwest Airlines History Center at Crowne Plaza Aire MSP Airport
Sponsored by Enterprise Mobility

November Monthly Meeting

November 5, 2026 | 11:00 AM–1:30 PM
📍 The Lofton Hotel Minneapolis (Newly Renovated!)
Sponsored by Delta Air Lines

Join us as renowned speaker Kelly Jahner-Byrne shares how to move beyond networking and create unstoppable momentum in your career, business, and relationships.

https://www.thehowgal.com/

Holiday Gala

December 3, 2026 | 4:00–7:00 PM
📍 Venue to Be Announced
Sponsored by Ascendas Travel

 GBTA National Events – Registration Open- Have unused scholarship dollars? These events are applicable!

 Business Travel at Climate Week NYC

September 21, 2026 | New York, NY
Join sustainability, procurement, and business travel leaders to discuss the future of sustainable travel and decarbonization strategies. Registration is open. https://gbtafoundation.org/events/

 GBTA WINiT Summit 2026

October 26-27, 2026 | Dallas, TX
A leadership development event focused on advancing women and gender equity in the business travel industry through education, networking, and professional growth. Registration is open. https://gbtafoundation.org/events/

 Workforce Mobility & Travel Summit

November 9-10, 2026 | Houston, TX
Designed for professionals managing workforce mobility, project travel, crew travel, and other complex travel programs. Topics include duty of care, operational challenges, risk management, and supplier partnerships. Registration is open. https://gbta.org/workforce-mobility-travel-summit/

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Education Summit

✨ Be the Ultimate Host: The 2027 GBTA North Central Education Summit RFP is Here! ✨

We are looking for a spectacular backdrop for the 2027 GBTA North Central Education Summit. If you want to bring elite networking, cutting-edge education, and top-tier professionals directly to your doors, this is your moment.

The official Request for Proposal is now available for review.

Don't miss your chance to be the foundation of an incredible event!

Call for Volunteers: Help Us Plan the Next Education Summit!

The Education Summit is one of our chapter’s most anticipated events, and we are currently looking for volunteers to help bring it to life. This is a fantastic opportunity to share your experience, collaborate with peers, and make a tangible impact.

Why volunteer with us?

  • Inclusive Team: All backgrounds and professional experience levels are completely welcome.
  • Flexible Commitment: Help as much as your schedule allows—no contribution is too small!
  • Convenient Collaboration: All committee meetings are virtual with flexible meeting times.

If you are interested in lending your talents, we would love to hear from you. Please reach out to Mitchell Greene at [email protected] for more information.

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Welcome New Members

Please join us in welcoming our newest GBTA North Central Chapter members!

We’re excited to have you as part of our community:

    • Terence Bass
      Owner
      Fiona's Carriage Inc.
    • Mitchell Biersner
      Meetings & Events
      American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
    • Chandra Jespersen
      Global Travel Specialist
      API Group
    • Michael Nelson
      Senior Vice President, Account Management
      Direct Travel
    • Neha Prajapati
      Complex Business Travel Sales
      Sheraton Bloomington Hotel / DoubleTree Bloomington South
    • Patricia West
      Account Manager, Global Sales
      American Airlines

    We look forward to connecting, collaborating, and growing together. Welcome to the chapter!

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    Member Highlight

    Member Spotlight: Micah McGuiness | Enterprise Mobility
    For nearly 10 years, Micah McGuiness has been helping businesses stay on the move through his work with Enterprise Mobility. What began as a referral from a friend evolved into a rewarding career in the travel industry, where she currently serves as an Account Development Manager supporting Enterprise Mobility's business rental team.
    A member of the GBTA North Central Chapter for the past three years, Micah joined the organization after stepping into her current role. The chapter has provided valuable opportunities to build relationships with travel buyers, suppliers, and travel management companies, helping her stay closely connected to the industry and its evolving needs.
    Throughout her career, Micah has witnessed firsthand how global events and economic conditions influence the travel landscape. Working through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic reinforced the importance of adaptability and resilience, lessons that continue to shape the industry today.
    What Micah finds most rewarding about her work is knowing that the transportation solutions she helps provide make a meaningful difference for organizations and communities. From supporting everyday business operations to helping clients whose work directly impacts and saves lives, she takes pride in playing a small but important role in their success.
    Outside of work, Micah and her partner of 12 years stay busy raising their five-year-old son, Braylen, and keeping up with their energetic puppy, Minnie. A resident of Blaine, Minnesota, she enjoys staying active through softball and golf, especially during Minnesota summers.
    A passionate traveler, Micah's favorite travel memories come from spending two separate months in Greece as a teenager. The country's culture, scenery, climate, and relaxed pace left a lasting impression and remain among his most cherished experiences. If he ever had the chance to relocate, sunny California would be his destination of choice.
    Whether connecting with industry partners, supporting customers, or spending time with family, Micah brings enthusiasm, dedication, and a genuine appreciation for the positive impact travel has on people and businesses alike.

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    PAC Update

    PAC Donations Accepted at Our Next GBTA Meeting

    At our next monthly GBTA meeting, we will once again be accepting contributions to our Political Action Committee (PAC). We encourage members who are able to participate to consider making a donation.

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    Sponsor

    Thank you to our sponsors for your generous support and sponsorship of GBTA North Central. Your partnership is instrumental in helping us to share valuable information, updates, and resources with our members.

    We truly appreciate your contribution and the trust you place in us. We are honored to have your organization as a sponsor and deeply value the relationship we share.

     Thank you again for your commitment and partnership.

    Annual Sponsorship Opportunities

     Annual Sponsorship opportunities are available. If you have any questions, please connect with [email protected]

    https://gbta-northcentral.starchapter.com/catalog.php

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    Advocacy

    Championing Inclusion and Culture in Travel

    North Central GBTA is dedicated to fostering a culture and inclusive travel industry where every professional feels valued and empowered. Through education, advocacy, and collaboration, we support organizations in building inclusive workplace cultures and travel experiences.

    Creating meaningful change starts with understanding the impact of culture and inclusion, raising awareness, setting clear goals, and fostering open conversations. By working together, we can make a lasting impact on the industry.

    For more details or to get involved, visit GBTA North Central.

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