We are thrilled to share the exciting news that Sandy Borowsky, Owner and Vice President, has been recognized as an honoree at Davler Media’s City Guide and Delta Air Lines 3rd Annual 2024 Women In Tourism Awards. This prestigious award celebrates female leaders who create unforgettable travel experiences and have positively impacted the New York City tourism industry. With 25 years of dedicated service, Sandy’s exemplary leadership and entrepreneurial achievements have truly set her apart, rightfully earning her this well-deserved recognition.
The award ceremony, held at City Winery in New York, brought together over 300 industry professionals to honor outstanding women who contribute to making NYC one of the world’s favorite destinations. Sandy was selected as the Tour Operator Honoree by a panel of 10 distinguished tourism professionals who reviewed over 240 submissions of highly qualified and accomplished nominees.
As our dedicated 3rd generation owner, Sandy continually inspires us with her passion for crafting unforgettable travel experiences. Her commitment to excellence and innovation in the tourism industry has rightfully earned her this well-deserved recognition.
Here is Sandy’s heartfelt acceptance speech from the event:
“I am deeply honored to accept this award honoring women in tourism. To be recognized among such inspiring female leaders is truly a privilege.
Standing here today, I have many women who have motivated and inspired me to become the woman and leader I am. From my mom who worked tirelessly in travel for over 40 years to my incredible tour director, Penny Rudolph, who has led thousands of tour groups since the mid 80’s, I have been surrounded by women who foster tenacity and creativity as a community. We lift each other up with a common goal to provide memorable experiences for travelers and support one another along the way.
I feel so grateful to the women who came before me – my grandmother, for example, who stepped up to lead Starr when her husband passed – showing me what it looks like to be a strong female leader. And now, having spent more than 25 years in the industry myself, I’m thrilled to collaborate with and mentor other female leaders that continue to inspire me.
It is so meaningful to receive this award in New York City, a destination that has shaped so much of Starr’s tourism since the New York World Fair in 1964. Starr travelers absolutely love seeing Broadway musicals, visiting world-renowned landmarks, and sightseeing during the holidays. New York City continues to provide unforgettable experiences for our Starr travelers.
To close, I would like to thank the women, and maybe the men too, who have supported me. My wonderful family including my husband and co-owner, Pete, my parents, my coworkers, industry friends, and my clients, who have all been vital to my career at Starr as well as to the success that Starr has been lucky enough to achieve since 1947.
Thank you.”
We are incredibly proud of Sandy’s accomplishments and the recognition she has received for her outstanding contributions to the tourism industry. Her passion and commitment continue to inspire us all at Starr.
Thank you, Sandy, for your leadership and for being such an integral part of our success. We look forward to many more years of creating unforgettable experiences for our travelers!
