Richmond Hosts a Memorable 2025 Pennsylvania Bus Association Annual Conference
The Pennsylvania Bus Association (PBA) brought together its members, travel suppliers, and industry partners for the 2025 Annual Conference, held June 16–18 in Richmond, Virginia. With the theme “Timeless Journeys: Bridging History and Horizons Through Motorcoach Travel,” the event celebrated the evolving role of group travel while focusing on innovation, accessibility, and leadership.
Festivities opened with a BBQ picnic at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, hosted by Visit Richmond. Attendees enjoyed local fare and networking in a setting that honored both the historical significance and future potential of the industry.
Tuesday’s agenda featured the PBA General Membership Meeting, which included the annual election of the Board of Directors. The following individuals were elected to serve:
- David Benedict – David Thomas Trailways
- Maria Frank – Benedict’s Bus Service
- Dale McMichael – Executive Coach
- Bill Scully – Freedom Excursions by Scully
- Amanda Thibeau – Aimbridge Hospitality
- Jonathan Robbins – ABC Companies
- Bob Chepalonis – Martz Group
Also announced during the meeting were the recipients of the 2025 PBA Scholarship Awards, recognizing academic excellence and a commitment to the industry’s future. The 2025 Scholarship winners are Katie Kimmel, referred by Operator Member Wolf’s Bus Lines, and Karina Kunkel, referred by Operator Member Anderson Coach & Travel. Each received a check for $1,000 and a plaque. The Scholarship Program, initiated under the leadership of current PBA Chair Tammy Wolf-Baker, started in 2023.
Dr. Jon Kedrowski, renowned mountaineer and motivational speaker, delivered the keynote address “How to Be Everest Ready.” Drawing from his experiences summiting Mount Everest three times, he shared powerful insights on resilience, goal-setting, and preparing for life’s challenges.
The ABA Foundation’s Director of Research, Policy, and Impact Lew Myers was on hand to present an update on the latest research and policy actions taken by the ABA.
Attendees then participated in an Operators & Associate Members Interchange, a valuable opportunity for motorcoach operators to connect with suppliers across various sectors, including seating, insurance, technology, and equipment. This was followed by the Travel Supplier Roundtable, moderated by Amanda Thibeau of Aimbridge Hospitality, which brought together DMOs, attractions, and travel planners for candid discussion.
Wednesday continued the forward-looking theme with Toni Bastian, Director of Accessibility & Tourism Sales at Richmond Region Tourism, presenting “Designing Accessible Travel: Inclusive Tours for Aging and Disabled Travelers.” Her session explored how operators can make travel more inclusive for diverse populations.
The conference concluded with a high-energy presentation from Christian Riddell, CEO of The Bus Network, who demystified artificial intelligence and offered actionable strategies for motorcoach businesses to use AI tools effectively in marketing, customer service, and operations.
With strong attendance and meaningful engagement, the 2025 PBA Annual Conference marked a milestone for the association. The next annual conference will be held in the Pocono Mountains in 2026.
