VenueConnect 2019

Aurora Dawn Benton
Chief Change Agent
Astrapto LLC


Dr. Aurora Dawn Benton designs, implements, and scales sustainability programs in hospitality, events, and travel. She founded Astrapto LLC to provide practical, business-oriented solutions to social and environmental issues in these industries. As a project leader for World Wildlife Fund’s Hotel-Kitchen program expansion, Aurora brought together a diverse group of stakeholders to explore and activate food waste reduction initiatives. She has helped venues and catering partners transform their culture and processes for food and materials waste reduction. Aurora also teaches both university students and industry professionals how to launch green teams and manage sustainability initiatives. Aurora has written for Sustainable Brands, Hotel News Now, Travindy, Green Lodging News, and the Hotel Yearbook. She regularly speaks at industry conferences and on webinars and podcasts. She is a thought leader and volunteer in several industry organizations, including the Events Industry Council, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, the Global Business Travel Association, and the International Society of Hospitality Consultants. Aurora has a doctorate degree in Social Impact Management, is a certified Sustainability Associate with the International Society of Sustainability Professionals, has a Sustainable Event Planning Certificate, and is a certified Project Management Professional.

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