Palm Springs, CA (8 June 2026) – With deep sadness, the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association announces the passing of our President/CEO, John Tanzella (he/him), on 7 June after an extended illness. For 20 years, John led IGLTA with compassion, kindness, and the unwavering belief that LGBTQ+ travelers should feel welcome everywhere in the world.
His commitment to advancing LGBTQ+ travel steered IGLTA to become the well-respected international organization that 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.
“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,” said Meg Ten Eyck (she/her), IGLTA Board Chair and Founder, EveryQueer. “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.”
IGLTA VP-Finance Tony Warner (he/him), who has overseen the association's finances for 16 years, will move into the position of Interim CEO to keep the organization on its successful path.
For those wishing to make a donation in his memory, we kindly request contributions to the IGLTA Foundation, where we are establishing the John Tanzella Fellowship Fund in his honor to elevate LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs in emerging destinations.
About IGLTA & The IGLTA Foundation
The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association is the global leader in advancing LGBTQ+ travel and a proud Affiliate Member of UN Tourism. IGLTA’s mission is to enable authentic travel that enriches lives and connects the LGBTQ+ community and tourism industry. IGLTA's global network includes 14,500+ LGBTQ+ welcoming accommodations, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events, and travel media in over 80 countries. The philanthropic IGLTA Foundation empowers LGBTQ+ welcoming travel businesses globally through leadership, research, and education. For more information: iglta.org, igltaconvention.org or iglta.org/foundation and follow social media at @IGLTA and @IGLTAFoundation.