TIA And Industry Bid Farwell to William Norman

January 12, 2005

TIA And Industry Bid Farwell to William Norman
January 12, 2005 – A tribute dinner was held this week in Washington, D.C., in honor of retiring TIA President and CEO William S. Norman.

CrossSphere president Hank Phillips, CTP, who attended the dinner, spoke fondly of Norman. "Being the leader of TIA is a daunting task given the full range of all the many interests that make up the travel industry," said Phillips. "Bill Norman has carried out his role for the last 10 years with a level of professionalism, organization and an intense understanding of our industry that very few people could bring to the role. He has done an excellent job in a very difficult position and have moved both TIA and the industry forward."

The dinner honored Norman by raising funds for TIA Foundation scholarships. TIA reports that the dinner raised a total of almost $170,000. Norman was the first chair of the Foundation prior to becoming President and CEO of TIA. He was also cited for his leadership of the travel industry following September 11, 2001, for his strong advocacy of the industry in the halls of government, and for his unceasing work to unify the diverse industry.

Roger Dow succeeds Norman. Dow has spent the last 30 years at Marriott International, most recently as senior vice president of global and field operations.

"Roger Dow comes to the position with his own unique style, which I believe will serve our industry and TIA very well. We wish him the best and offer our full support and assistance in his new role," Phillips said.