Thirty years ago, I had the privilege to meet one of the most special individuals I know. It was my first day as a travel industry professional at a company called First Travel Corporation, also known as Ask Mr. Foster Travel, in southern California. As a new employee, I was introduced to many, many people, but one co-worker stood out from the rest, that day, and in weeks and years to come. She was smart with a sharp business savvy, yet warm and genuine. She was sensitive to the opinions of others and as eager to listen to ideas as she was to offer them. In fact, her human qualities — her compassion, sincerity, and humble nature— are as outstanding as her business intuition. It was clear even then that this individual was going to change the travel industry. Flash forward three decades, and we gather here tonight to honor her — a beloved friend of many of us — Michelle Morgan. The young and audacious agent I met then is now the accomplished president and CEO that transformed a 30-member consortium into Signature Travel Network, a travel powerhouse that commands over $4.5 billion in sales. Her good friend, Bill Smith of Crystal Cruises, says of Michelle: "Perhaps the one thing that stands out for me, with over forty years in this fantastic industry that we are in, are the people we have all had the opportunity to meet on this incredible journey. Certainly none has been more important and lasting for me than my very dear and close friend, Michelle Morgan. Throughout this amazing ride, she has remained my inspiration, my role model of integrity, kindness and class. She has been there as a friend offering support and encouragement. I could share a lot more stories. I could go on and on... but I've embarrassed her enough." As someone who knows Michelle and her nature, I know that she's going to appreciate this honor immensely, but also undoubtedly attribute most of the recognition to her team. Because her life isn't about one person -- it's about a group of people. It's this humility and tremendous consideration for others that makes her a truly unique human being. Despite whatever life throws her way, I can say with confidence: Michelle has the drive to overcome the most daunting challenges, only to thrive again — bending with life's twists and turns, but still never breaking. Our industry can only expect more accomplishment and more effective change from this incredible woman in the years to come.