Today is a significant milestone in our nation’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, as for the first time in nearly two years, the United States has reopened its borders to vaccinated international travelers.  

This action is a key step in our economic recovery and marks a significant opportunity for U.S. association leaders to reconnect with our global community. According to the U.S. Travel Association, the effects of travel restrictions due to COVID-19 resulted in losses of nearly $300 billion in export income and more than 1 million American jobs from March 2020 to October 2021. 
 
Today, the travel and hospitality industry – and associations that host international meeting delegates – can feel encouraged that we are taking a much-needed step in our economic recovery. And to our international friends and colleagues, we look forward to welcoming you back to the United States. 
 

Warm regards,

Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE 
President & CEO