Travel industry advocate Vanessa McGovern is Emerald Luna godmother

The news was announced Thursday evening on the main stage at the American Society of Travel Advisors' Global River Cruise Expo in Budapest.

July 21 in Amsterdam

Emerald Luna's naming is scheduled to take place on July 21 in Amsterdam.

'Vanessa is a true force for good in the travel industry, and her enthusiasm is infectious. Her tireless advocacy work has helped raise the collective profile of travel professionals, and her commitment to supporting entrepreneurs benefits our entire industry,' said Ann Chamberlin, VP sales for Scenic Group USA, which includes Emerald Cruises and Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours.

Co-founder of Gifted Travel Network

McGovern, chief sales officer and co-founder of Gifted Travel Network, is a business coach, advocate and entrepreneur. GTN, a Virtuoso member, is a host agency with a mission to support entrepreneurial-spirited travel professionals. She serves on the ASTA board's executive committee and government affairs and political action committee. She also spearheads ASTA Advocacy Awareness Day.

McGovern got her start in the travel industry as an art auctioneer on a cruise ship before transitioning into education in 2008, developing and implementing multiple award-winning agent training programs at respected industry organizations such as Cruise Planners and Special Needs Group.

The 180-passenger Emerald Luna becomes Emerald Cruises' ninth Star-Ship.