Remembering Charlotte Bell

'A proud, strong and passionate leader'

The Canadian tourism industry was both shocked and saddened by the news of the passing of Charlotte Bell, the president and CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC).

In a message to TIAC members and this country’s travel and tourism industry, TIAC’s Board Chair, Dave McKenna wrote: “I am saddened to inform you that our President and CEO, Charlotte Bell, passed away peacefully this weekend surrounded by family … Charlotte fought a brave battle with an aggressive form of cancer. Words cannot express our collective grief, and I know the entire tourism community is saddened by this deeply personal and national loss.”

McKenna continued:

“Charlotte was a proud, strong and passionate leader for our collective cause. She was a role model for young female leaders on how to be tough, effective, and a visionary, while still leading with kindness. She leaves a proud legacy across Canada and numerous political leaders have expressed their respect, grief and common loss.”

He said that:

“In accordance with Charlotte’s and her family’s wishes, there will be no public memorial or service and they kindly asked that any donation be directed to the Canadian Cancer Society.”

TIABC extends its sympathies

The board and staff of the Tourism Industry Association of British Columbia (TIABC) said in a statement that they are “deeply saddened” by the passing of valued colleague and friend Charlotte Bell, president and CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC).

TIABC’s statement continued: “As our federal partner in tourism advocacy, we worked closely with Charlotte on policy directives, briefings for government, and many other important initiatives. Charlotte loved British Columbia and had many friends in our industry here and all over Canada. She was a tireless advocate, especially this year during the worst crisis in our industry’s memory.”

TIABC said that: “Charlotte left a legacy of compassion, commitment and resolve that we as an industry can learn from and appreciate for years to come. She will be sincerely missed. On behalf of the entire BC tourism and hospitality industry, TIABC offers its condolences to Charlotte’s family and friends, as well as her colleagues at TIAC.”

From all of us here at Baxter Media who have worked with Charlotte over the years, we’d like to extend our deepest condolences to her family and friends.

And, to all of you reading this, take a moment and remember Charlotte.