CTO honors Jacqueline Johnson with Legacy Award as foundation nears 30 years

The Caribbean Tourism Organization has given Jacqueline Johnson its Legacy Award as the CTO Foundation approaches its 30th anniversary. The recognition highlights her long role in building scholarships, mentorship and education programs for future Caribbean tourism leaders.

Why it matters: - The award spotlights a long-running effort to grow Caribbean tourism by funding education, not just promotion. - The CTO Foundation has backed 314 students through scholarships and study grants, helping build the region’s next generation of tourism workers. - The recognition also reinforces the role of private and nonprofit leaders in developing a more competitive Caribbean travel sector.

What happened: - The Caribbean Tourism Organization presented Jacqueline Johnson, CTC, with the Caribbean Tourism Organization Legacy Award in New York City on July 23, 2026. - Johnson is chair of the CTO Foundation and a founding member of its board. - The CTO Foundation is approaching its 30th anniversary. - Johnson said the Foundation remains committed to developing future tourism leaders through education, mentorship and opportunity.

The details: - The CTO Foundation was established 27 years ago by former CTO Secretary General Dr. Gene Holder. - Johnson later became chairperson of the board of directors. - The Foundation provides scholarships and professional development opportunities for 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 to support those awards. - Johnson said investing in young Caribbean nationals strengthens the Caribbean’s competitiveness for generations to come. - Johnson serves as president and CEO of Global Bridal Group, a multimedia company focused on branding, media, e-commerce and destination marketing, with a focus on romance travel. - Johnson has spent more than three decades helping destinations build romance tourism programs through marketing, partnerships and consumer engagement. - Her career includes senior roles at Condé Nast Bridal Group, Bridal Guide and New York Magazine. - Earlier in her career, Johnson was vice president and media director at a Madison Avenue advertising agency that handled campaigns for cruise lines, hotels, tourism boards and travel companies. - Johnson has moderated international marketing forums, hosted bridal symposiums and led educational seminars around the world. - Johnson’s other honors include the CTO 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, Pacific Asia Travel Association and Africa Travel Association. - The CTO Foundation was formed and registered in New York as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 1997. - The Foundation says its mission is to support Caribbean nationals pursuing higher education in tourism-related fields and to invest in the region’s future. - More information

Between the lines: - The Legacy Award appears to serve as both a personal honor for Johnson and a signal that the CTO sees education as central to tourism development. - The emphasis on scholarships and professional development suggests the region is focused on building talent pipelines rather than relying only on marketing campaigns. - Johnson’s background in romance travel and destination marketing likely made her a strong fit for a foundation aimed at long-term industry growth.

What's next: - The CTO Foundation is expected to continue funding students as it approaches 30 years of operations. - Johnson’s recognition may help draw more attention to the Foundation’s scholarship and mentorship mission. - The Foundation’s anniversary year could become a moment to expand fundraising and educational support across the Caribbean.

The bottom line: - The CTO is honoring Johnson for work that has translated tourism ambition into direct investment in Caribbean talent.