Alexandria, VA; June 17, 2025 — The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) today announced a series of new hires, marking a dynamic period of growth and transformation for the association and further underscoring the organization’s commitment to continued evolution. Leading these developments is the appointment of Margo Van Ness as ASTA’s new Director of Communications, bringing seasoned expertise to elevate ASTA’s brand, voice and media presence across the travel industry. Additionally, Stephanie Kent, longtime corporate travel specialist, rounds out ASTA’s new corporate travel department.
Van Ness joins ASTA with over 15 years of strategic communications and media relations experience, including senior roles with Vail Resorts, U.S. Ski and Snowboard and in the financial and agriculture tech sectors. Reporting to Michael Schottey, Vice President of Membership, Marketing and Communications, she will oversee ASTA’s external and internal communications strategy, with a focus on brand storytelling, member engagement and thought leadership.
“Communications is core to how we advocate for our members and inspire confidence in the advisor community,” said Zane Kerby, President and CEO of ASTA. “Margo brings a dynamic blend of industry insight and communications expertise that will position ASTA to lead boldly in a changing landscape.”
Joining Van Ness in spearheading new initiatives is Stephanie Kent, newly appointed Senior Manager, ASTA Corporate. Kent will lead a refreshed focus on supporting corporate travel agencies and travel management companies (TMCs) through ASTA Corporate, led by Executive Vice President, Mark Meader. The department will serve as a hub of subject matter expertise and thought leadership in business travel, meetings and events. With nearly 30 years of travel industry experience, Kent’s background spans global sales and account management roles with Delta Air Lines, Air France, Singapore Airlines, Protravel, Omega World Travel and CWT.
“We know that the strength of our organization lies in the passion and expertise of our people,” added Kerby. “Welcoming new team members is always an exciting moment, and these recent hires bring a wealth of talent, fresh perspectives and deep commitment to advancing our mission.”
ASTA also welcomed the following team members to support its growing communications, advocacy and membership functions:
Krystle Kimes, Senior Coordinator, Marketing and Communications – A former broadcast journalist with over a decade of storytelling experience, Krystle brings a background in corporate communications and marketing. She supports ASTA’s initiatives across both member-facing and public channels.
Megan Basile, Coordinator, Membership Sales Fulfillment – Megan plays a vital role in supporting membership operations, including processing new applications and guiding member engagement. Her background includes tech industry sales, operations and strategic campaign work.
Jackson Bell, Advocacy Coordinator – With experience in political organizing and multiclient lobbying at the Vogel Group, Jackson will help manage ASTAPAC’s day-to-day operations and support ASTA’s broader advocacy efforts.
These appointments follow significant leadership transitions announced in March, reinforcing ASTA’s commitment to organizational strength, innovation and member service.