Sunshine Matters

As part of today’s historic proposed budget announcement, Governor Rick Scott presented a Business Ambassador Award to long-time tourism  industry leader Ed Fouché.  The award is given to business standouts who have significantly impacted the industry they represent, and there could be no more deserving recipient than Ed.

Ed served an unprecedented two-year term as the chair of VISIT FLORIDA’s Board of Directors, providing leadership and stability during the Gulf oil spill.  In addition to his tremendous service to VISIT FLORIDA, Ed will be retiring later this month after a distinguished career with Disney.  He is currently the Senior Vice President of Travel Industry Sales for Disney Destinations, including Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort.  He also leads global sales efforts for Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, and Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa in Hawaii.

As a two-time past Chairman of VISIT FLORIDA, Ed has long been a champion of the tourism industry in Florida and is dedicated to enhancing the state’s position as the No. 1 tourism destination in the world.  He currently serves on the Board of Directors for VISIT FLORIDA and is Chairman of Air Team Orlando, a private and public committee focused on bringing new air lift to the area.  In addition, he is a member of the U.S. Travel Association, Cruise Lines International Association Marketing Committee and the Rosen College of Hospitality Management Board of Advisors at the University of Central Florida.

On behalf of the entire Florida tourism industry, I congratulate Ed on being honored today by Governor Scott and wish him well in his retirement.