2025 Next Gen: Kati Hagedorn
Kati Hagedorn is one of the 2025 Next Gens, as nominated by Groups Today readers for making a difference in the industry with her fresh, progressive perspective.
Kati Hagedorn, Director of Events for Tourism Cares, found herself in the travel industry from being drawn to working on events with purpose and impact.
"I found my way into the travel industry through Tourism Cares, and it's been incredibly rewarding to learn about the industry while connecting with so many dedicated colleagues," Hagedorn said.
With more than 14 years at Tourism Cares, Hagdorn specializes in collaborative event planning with destination stewardship at its foundation, and works with an amazing team to drive positive impact for communities through sustainable tourism. Hagedorn's approach emphasizes listening to host communities, ensuring events reflect their needs and values, and fostering experiences that leave a lasting, positive impact on participants and the places they visit.
"I'm intrigued by the travel industry's unique power to impact people and communities in both positive and challenging ways," she shared. "Travel is so much more than visiting new places—it has the potential to truly change lives. While there's still much work to be done to make the industry a net positive, it's inspiring to see so many dedicated people working toward that goal."
Having spent her entire career so far at Tourism Cares, Hagedorn is proud to have been part of the organization's growth and evolution.
"Working alongside such talented, dedicated coworkers has been especially rewarding; their commitment to challenging the status quo and pushing for positive impact continually inspires me," she said. "Seeing how far we've come together and knowing that we're constantly evolving to make a difference is incredibly rewarding."
Hagedorn's goals for the future are focused on continuing to drive positive change in the travel industry.
"I'm passionate about working with teams like Tourism Cares to create lasting, impactful change—whether through sustainability initiatives or supporting local communities," she shared. "Travel has immense potential to create positive transformation, and I'm excited to keep collaborating with others who share the commitment to making the industry more responsible and inclusive.
"There's still a lot of work ahead, but I'm inspired by the progress we're making together."
Kati Hagedorn is one of the 2025 Next Gens, as nominated by Groups Today readers for making a difference in the industry with her fresh, progressive perspective. Click here to see the January/February feature.
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for Groups Today.
Photos courtesy of Kati Hageedorn.
