by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 9:30 PM ET, Mon June 8, 2026
The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association announced today that its president and CEO of 20 years, John Tanzella, has passed away after a long illness.
According to a statement issued by the organization, Tanzella passed away on June 7.
“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."
Tanzella led IGLTA with compassion, kindness, and the unwavering belief that LGBTQ+ travelers should feel welcome everywhere in the world, the organization said.
He was known for his commitment to advancing LGBTQ+ travel, an effort that led IGLTA to become the well-respected international organization that it is today. Tanzella’s 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
“At IGLTA, we often refer to our global community as family, and John truly made that a reality,” Ten Eyck said. “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.
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