Since 2005 Karen Whitt has been a leading figure in the Turks and Caicos hospitality industry, becoming synonymous with the country’s brand on the international stage.
On September 23rd 2024, Karen achieved another milestone in her career, officially joining the Executive Board of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) as its newly elected First Vice President. This marks a wonderful achievement for the country, bringing greater representation for Turks and Caicos within this influential regional organization.
Throughout her career, Karen has been a driving force behind the Turks & Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association’s efforts to elevate the country as a premier tourism destination. She has fostered strong relationships with local stakeholders while tirelessly promoting Turks and Caicos to the global travel community.
A two-term Past President of the TCHTA, Karen was instrumental in creating the association’s signature events, Star Awards and Maskanoo™, both of which have become cornerstone celebrations for the islands. Today, she continues to serve as a valued Board Director and Marketing Chair.
“Karen’s contributions over the years have been invaluable,” said Stacy Cox, CEO of the TCHTA. “She has consistently displayed her unwavering commitment to the industry, and this appointment is well deserved. It’s a testament to her hard work and the respect she has earned from those who are tasked with charting the way forward for Caribbean tourism. We are excited to see what she will achieve in this new role.”
As Vice President of Marketing and Brand Development for the Hartling Group overseeing The Sands at Grace Bay, The Palms Turks and Caicos, and The Shore Club, Karen has achieved international accolades. Through that role, her passion for community service has proven to be as prominent as her dedication to the tourism sector. She proudly chairs and supports annual fundraisers for the National Cancer Society and the Red Cross, including the well-known “In the Pink” and “Red Hot Challenge” events.
TCHTA President, James McAnally shared, “Karen’s appointment is a proud moment for all of us in the Turks and Caicos hospitality industry,” He continued, “Her leadership and dedication are inspiring, and her commitment to both our local industry and the wider Caribbean has earned her this well-deserved recognition. We have no doubt she will continue to uplift the entire region and advocate well for our destination in this new role.”
Karen will serve as First Vice President of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association for the 2024-2026 biennium, supporting CHTA President Sanovnik Destang, Executive Director of Bay Gardens Resort, St. Lucia.
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