ORLANDO – David Siegel, the visionary founder and executive chairman of Westgate Resorts, was honored by the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) this week with its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. This recognition, presented at ARDA’s annual conference, celebrates Siegel’s remarkable contributions to the growth and evolution of the timeshare industry and his philanthropic efforts.
Siegel, who founded Westgate Resorts in 1982, began his journey with a single property on an orange grove he owned in Kissimmee, Florida. Over the years, he has built Westgate into the largest privately held timeshare company in the world, with over 13,500 rooms across 22 resorts in the United States. Westgate has grown to become one of the largest resort developers in the country and the largest private employer in Central Florida.
“I’ve dedicated the last 43 years of my life to this industry, both as a developer and a timeshare owner,” Siegel said during his acceptance speech.
“I’ve always believed in the power of vacations to bring families together and create lasting memories. I am incredibly proud of our Westgate team, and I celebrate this recognition on their behalf. As we pass the torch to the next generation, I’m more confident than ever that the timeshare industry will not just grow but thrive.”
Siegel’s work extends far beyond his business endeavors. He has also been a tireless advocate for social causes, especially in the wake of personal tragedy. Following the death of his 18-year-old daughter, Victoria, he became a leading voice in efforts to combat the drug epidemic.
Siegel played a pivotal role in lobbying for the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA), which provided significant funding for naloxone, a life-saving drug used to counter opioid overdoses. Additionally, Siegel successfully campaigned for June 6 to be recognized as National Naloxone Day, a day to honor his daughter’s legacy and raise awareness about the opioid crisis.
As a tribute to his service and advocacy, Siegel has also donated more than 28,000 complimentary vacations to U.S. military personnel, thanking them for their service and offering them much-needed relaxation.
Jason Gamel, president and CEO of ARDA, highlighted Siegel’s significant impact on the timeshare industry, saying, “David is a true visionary of the timeshare industry. His relentless drive and commitment to making luxury vacations accessible to all has reshaped the industry and created opportunities for millions of families to experience unforgettable vacations. We are proud to honor him with this well-deserved recognition.”
Siegel’s business acumen is reflected not only in his achievements at Westgate Resorts but also in his ongoing efforts to expand and innovate. Recently, Westgate Resorts announced its acquisition of Vacation Ownership Sales, the sales, marketing, and management arm of VI Resorts, which significantly expands Westgate’s reach with 44 new destinations. The company has also formed a new strategic partnership with Choice Hotels and is set to open two new attractions this summer — the River Country Water Park at Westgate River Ranch Resort in Lake Wales, Florida, and the Mystery Funhouse Arcade Experience at Westgate Town Center in Kissimmee, Florida.
In addition to his business accomplishments, Siegel’s dedication to his family is equally impressive. He is the proud husband of Jacqueline and the father of 13 children, along with 12 grandchildren and step-grandchildren. Jacqueline Siegel, speaking on behalf of the Siegel family, expressed immense pride in her husband’s legacy: “We are incredibly proud of David and the entire Westgate team. They’ve helped establish not only a world-class company but also laid the foundation for the entire timeshare industry. This recognition from ARDA is a reflection of David’s tireless efforts and dedication to both the business and the greater good.”
Westgate Resorts continues its growth trajectory under Siegel’s leadership, consistently earning accolades and industry recognition. The company was recently awarded the “No. 1 Glamping Destination” by USA Today’s 10 Best 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards and the “2022 ACE Project of Excellence Award” by ARDA for Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo. Westgate has also garnered 73 “Best of State Awards” for its Westgate Park City Resort & Spa, with the resort achieving 10 consecutive years of recognition.
David Siegel’s dedication to his business, his family, and his community has shaped the timeshare industry and left a lasting impact on both the hospitality sector and society as a whole. His journey is a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and a commitment to making a difference.
For more information on Westgate Resorts and its innovative offerings, visit westgateresorts.com.