LIST OF CANDIDATES & STATEMENTS for ASTA San Diego 2026 Election
* Indicates current board member
Alana O'neal I believe I would be an asset to the ASTA San Diego Board because I am passionate about strengthening our local travel advisor community through collaboration, education, and creative outreach. As a Certified Autism Travel Professional (along with a mother of a special needs son) and co-owner of a family-focused travel agency, I bring inclusivity, innovation, and firsthand experience helping clients of all backgrounds travel with confidence. I’m dedicated to promoting professionalism and awareness of the value travel advisors bring to every traveler’s journey.
Anne Rodriguez* As the current Treasurer of ASTA San Diego, I’ve really enjoyed helping strengthen our chapter’s financial foundation and supporting the creative ideas that bring our community together. I’m passionate about empowering travel advisors, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities for all of us to grow. I’d love to continue contributing my experience, energy, and heart to advancing ASTA’s mission here in San Diego.
Antoinette (Toni) Casselberry* With over 10 years in the travel industry here in California, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful our community can be when we support one another. For the past two years, I’ve been honored to serve on the ASTA San Diego board, working to help fellow travel professionals better understand our industry, overcome challenges, and build thriving businesses. I’m passionate about inspiring others, sharing knowledge, and making sure our voices are heard. Together, we can keep moving our industry forward.
Debra Ann Westbrooks I’m deeply passionate about empowering and uplifting the travel advisor community. With four years of experience in both travel planning and professional collaboration, I’ve seen how sharing knowledge and fostering connection can transform our industry. My strength lies in creating spaces where advisors feel supported, inspired, and confident to grow—through education, mentorship, and authentic engagement. Supporting ASTA’s mission locally allows me to give back to an organization that continues to elevate our profession and remind us that together, we can shape the future of travel. Have been a board member of PATA fir the last two years.
Drew Santiago* Mayor of Funville with Carnival Cruises and long-term ASTA San Diego board member.
Jacqueline Day* I believe I am an asset to the ASTA Board in that I communicate frequently with all of our mutual travel partner (supplier) partners. I enjoy helping to coordinate ASTA events from the partner standpoint and would like to continue doing this in 2026. My goal is to be part of events and activities that provide education, inspiration and connection between travel advisors and travel suppliers.
Jeanine Mak* The past two years, I have served on the ASTA board where I have worked with tourism boards around the world to create learning opportunities abroad for our ASTA members. An educator at heart, I look for ways to engage our members in learning destinations deeply by bringing our community together to encourage and learn from one another. My hope is that by bringing together new and experienced advisors with industry partners, we can make our travel community vibrant.
Karen Olson* Karen Olson serves as the Sales Development Manager for Southern California, representing Rocky Mountaineer. She brings years of experience in group travel, agent training, and strategic partnerships, with a strong focus on supporting the travel advisor community. With over 10 years of service on the ASTA Board, Karen is passionate about fostering collaboration and delivering unforgettable travel experiences — and would be honored to continue serving ASTA San Diego.
Katie Hunter* Hello, my name is Katie Hunter. It was an honor to be appointed to the ASTA San Diego board in May to fill their need for a webmaster. My professional career began as a producer/writer at KFMB-TV in San Diego. I had my own marketing business for many years before beginning a new career as a travel advisor, about 10 years ago. While on the San PATA board, I helped create and facilitate events designed to educate and advance industry knowledge. I plan to do the same at ASTA San Diego, working with others to benefit and support agents and suppliers with the goal of increasing sales, expertise, and establishing strategic business relationships.
Monique Kiefner* I’ve had the privilege of serving on the ASTA board since 2018, holding roles as Membership Chair, Secretary, and now Vice President. When I was new to the travel industry, attending my first ASTA events and meeting I was inspired to get involved right away. At that time, our chapter was small but full of energy and ambition—and together, we’ve grown into a strong, supportive community for local travel advisors. It’s been an honor to work alongside such a dedicated team, and I look forward to continuing to serve and contribute to our chapter’s success.
Susan Rutan* I have been in the travel industry, in various capacities, since 1978. It truly is my passion and I love being a part of the education, networking, and making a difference in this wonderful industry.
Tracy Anderson-Riston* I’ve had the honor of representing San Diego as President for the past 4 years, and previously served as President of APTA for 8 years, including 2 years on the National APTA Board. With over 30 years in the travel industry, mostly in San Diego, I’ve dedicated my career to leadership and service. Presently General Manager of TravelStore’s San Diego branch.
Tricia Halsema* I’m seeking reelection to the board to continue my role with Social Media and continue with the progress we've made together. I bring a strong commitment to our team and feel I'm a team player.