Jacqueline Johnson receives Caribbean Tourism Organization Legacy Award

The Caribbean Tourism Organization honored Jacqueline Johnson with its Legacy Award as the CTO Foundation nears its 30th anniversary. The recognition spotlights her decades of work funding scholarships, mentoring students and building the next generation of Caribbean tourism leaders.

Why it matters: - The award recognizes a long-term effort to strengthen Caribbean tourism by investing in education and career pathways. - The CTO Foundation says scholarships and professional development can help build a more competitive tourism workforce across the region. - Johnson's work connects tourism growth with talent development, which affects destinations, hospitality businesses and related industries.

What happened: - The Caribbean Tourism Organization presented Jacqueline Johnson with the Caribbean Tourism Organization Legacy Award. - The recognition came as the CTO Foundation approaches its 30th anniversary. - Johnson serves as chair of the CTO Foundation and was a founding board member when the Foundation was established 27 years ago by former CTO Secretary General Dr. Gene Holder. - Johnson was later named chairperson of the Foundation's board of directors.

The details: - The CTO Foundation supports Caribbean nationals pursuing careers in tourism, hospitality, language studies and related fields. - Since its founding, the Foundation has awarded major scholarships to 128 students and study grants to another 186 students. - The organization has raised more than US$1.0 million for those educational opportunities. - Johnson said the Foundation is “deeply grateful” for the chance to invest in young Caribbean nationals whose work will shape the industry. - Johnson said tourism is “powered by people” and that education today will strengthen the Caribbean's competitiveness for generations. - Johnson is president and CEO of Global Bridal Group, a multimedia company focused on branding, media, e-commerce and destination marketing. - Johnson has spent more than three decades helping destinations build romance tourism programs through marketing, partnerships and consumer engagement. - Her career includes senior executive roles at Condé Nast Bridal Group, Bridal Guide and New York Magazine. - Johnson also served as vice president and media director at a Madison Avenue advertising agency, where she led campaigns for cruise lines, hotels, tourism boards and travel companies. - Johnson has moderated international marketing forums, hosted bridal symposiums and led educational seminars worldwide. - Her honors include the CTO's Tourism Medal of Excellence, Jamaica's Marcella Martinez Award, the Jerry Award for Outstanding Support of Caribbean Tourism and MarryCaribbean.com's Service Award of Excellence. - Johnson is a Certified Travel Counselor and participates in the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association, the Pacific Asia Travel Association and the Africa Travel Association.

Between the lines: - The award underscores how Caribbean tourism groups are tying industry recognition to workforce development, not just business growth. - Johnson's career in romance travel and destination marketing gives the Foundation a leader with deep industry credibility and broad contacts. - The emphasis on scholarships suggests the CTO views education as a practical tool for long-term regional competitiveness.

What's next: - The CTO Foundation is expected to continue funding scholarships, study grants and professional development as it enters its next decade. - Johnson is likely to keep using her platform to connect education, mentorship and tourism development across the Caribbean. - The Foundation's 30th anniversary may bring more attention to its fundraising and student support efforts.

The bottom line: - The Legacy Award puts a spotlight on one message: Caribbean tourism's future depends on training the people who will lead it.