IAAPA Foundation
Inspiring the Next Generation of Attractions Industry Leaders
The IAAPA Foundation exists to inspire life-changing careers in the global attractions industry by cultivating tomorrow’s leaders.
Industry Connections
The IAAPA Foundation’s strong industry network opens doors for students through valuable connections and increased exposure to senior leadership.
The Foundation strives to increase awareness of the unique and diverse career paths students can take when they pursue degrees in attractions management.
Get Involved...Make a Donation Today
The IAAPA Foundation relies exclusively on private donations to support the future leaders of the global attractions industry. Your financial support is crucial to this important industry effort. Below are the various ways you can contribute to the IAAPA Foundation:
The Al Weber Jr. Memorial Fund
Al Weber, Jr. PhD was the founder, president, and CEO of Apex Parks Group, former CEO of Paramount Parks and Six Flags Theme Parks, a member of the IAAPA Board of Directors, and a passionate supporter of education. The Al Weber Memorial Fund was established in his honor and all donations are used solely for educational purposes including scholarships.
Donate to the Al Weber Jr. Memorial Fund
The IAAPA Foundation General Fund
Donating to this fund allows the IAAPA Foundation Board of Directors to develop additional partnership opportunities and alliances to grow awareness and support of the global attractions industry.
Donate to the IAAPA Foundation General Fund
Sponsor a Scholarship
Companies and individuals may sponsor one or more scholarships for students at Colleges and Universities that have partnered with the IAAPA Foundation to provide a pipeline into the attractions industry.
Scholarships will be named for the donors and donors will receive contact information for their scholarship recipient to allow for the option of direct contact with the student.
The IAAPA Foundation is incorporated in the United States as a 501 (c) (3) charitable foundation.
- IAAPA Foundation Board Members
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Andreas Andersen, ICAE
Board Member (2025)
CEO and President
Liseberg
SwedenCecilia Chavez T.L.
Board Member (2026)
Director
La Granja Villa
PeruJane Cooper
Vice Chair - IAAPA Foundation Board (2026)
Business Consultant
United StatesMassimiliano Freddi
Board Member (2026)
CEO
Wonderwood
ItalyFrank Hamedl
Board Member (2026)
Human Resources Business Partner
Fun Spot Orlando
United StatesTom Mehrmann, ICAE
Board Member (2026)
President and Chief Operating Officer
Universal Destinations & Experiences Pacific Rim
United States/AsiaJeroen Nijpels, ICAE
Board Member (2025)
Managing Director
JNELC
LuxembourgJim Seay, ICAE
Chair - IAAPA Foundation Board (2026)
President
Premier Rides, Inc.
United StatesTony Sze
Board Member (2026)
Senior Consultant
Chimelong Group
ChinaMichael Turner, ICAE
Board Member (2025)
VP, International Business Development
The Producer's Group
United StatesBobbie Wages
Secretary/Treasurer - IAAPA Foundation Board (2026)
President
Charles R. Wood Foundation
United StatesJakob Wahl
Board Member
President and CEO
IAAPA
United StatesBonnie Sherman Weber, ICAE
Board Member (2025)
Chief Operating Officer
Palace Entertainment
United StatesKen Whiting, ICAE
Board Member (2025)
President
Whiting's Food Concessions, Inc.
United StatesXiomara Wiley
Board Member (2026)
Chief Diversity Officer
Universal Destinations & Experiences
United StatesTom Wages, ICAE
Special AdvisorDavid W. Mandt, ICAE
Executive Director – IAAPA Foundation
EVP and Chief Marketing and Engagement Officer
IAAPA
Contact the IAAPA Foundation
For general inquiries, please contact Tom Wages, Executive Director: [email protected].
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