This year, two members of the Naples Airport Authority (NAA) Board of Commissioners will conclude their terms of service: former chair Rita Cuddihy and former commissioner Kerry C. Dustin.
The NAA Board of Commissioners is composed of five citizen volunteers appointed by the Naples City Council to provide policy direction, oversight and long-range guidance for the airport. Both Rita and Kerry have contributed meaningfully through their committee roles, leadership and ongoing engagement with residents, airport operators and civic partners.
The Naples Airport Authority and its Board of Commissioners extend their sincere appreciation to Rita, whose term concludes in Dec. 2025, and to Kerry, whose term ended in Nov. 2025. We appreciate your dedication, time, expertise and leadership, which have helped Naples Airport remain well-managed and responsive to the community it serves.
Honoring Rita Cuddihy
Since her appointment in 2021, Rita has brought a distinguished blend of aviation knowledge, hospitality leadership and steady community engagement to her work with the NAA Board of Commissioners.
Rita’s professional journey began in aviation while she was studying aerospace technology at the State University of New York at Farmingdale, where she earned her private pilot certificate. After completing her bachelor’s degree in aviation management at Metropolitan State University, she spent more than two decades working in the airline industry in roles that ranged from front-line positions to executive leadership at US Airways and Continental Airlines, including serving as president and CEO of the US Airways Shuttle. She continued her leadership career at Marriott International, where she spent 16 years guiding major initiatives and overseeing a multibillion-dollar region of hotels.
Her service on the Board has reflected the same thoughtful, grounded approach that fueled her career. Rita has served as vice chair and contributed extensively across committee assignments, including the Audit Committee, the Technical Advisory Committee and the Noise Compatibility Committee. As liaison to the NCC, she engaged regularly with residents, HOA leaders, airport users and elected officials, helping create an open and informed exchange around community perspectives on airport noise. Her ability to listen, communicate clearly and bring context from her own experience contributed meaningfully to the Board’s discussions and decisions.
Rita’s work has extended beyond her Board responsibilities. She remains active in education and community leadership through her involvement with the Hospitality School Advisory Board at Metropolitan State University and her volunteer service with Greater Naples Leadership. Her commitment to supporting future leaders and strengthening community connections mirrors the values she has brought to Naples Airport Authority.
Throughout her service, Rita has emphasized collaboration, transparency and ongoing engagement with the public. Her participation has helped advance important airport initiatives and supported the Authority’s ongoing focus on safety and efficiency, long-term planning and community quality of life.
Thank you, Rita, for your dedication and valued contributions to the Naples Airport Authority!
Honoring Kerry C. Dustin
During Kerry’s eight years at Naples Airport Authority, he served as a dedicated member of the Board and a consistent contributor to the Board of Commissioners and its community.
Kerry was first appointed to the Board in 2017, bringing an extensive background in business and finance. He holds a J.D. from Case Western Reserve University School of Law and a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the Ohio State University. During his tenure with the Board, he has held several roles, including vice chair beginning in 2020 and chair beginning in 2021.
In addition to his Board service, Kerry contributed to the Audit Committee and the Consultant Selection Committee, supporting the Authority’s governance and review processes. Throughout his career, he emphasized ethics, commitment and trust as the guiding principles of his work. Kerry also highlighted the essential public services based at Naples Airport, including Mosquito Control, MedFlight, the Collier County Sheriff’s Office and the airport’s fire station. He emphasized their importance to the well-being of the community and the broader role the airport plays in public safety.
During his time on the Board, Kerry was known for approaching each meeting with an open mind and encouraging candid discussion. He has spoken often about the importance of the Part 150 Noise Study, noting the value of working cooperatively with the Federal Aviation Administration, the City of Naples, customers and the community to explore opportunities for improvement while preserving safety and airport operations.
Outside his professional commitments, Kerry leads an active life. He is an avid reader who finishes up to 60 books each year, enjoys golf and spends time at the beach with his wife, Maegan, their four adult children, six grandchildren with a seventh on the way, and their dog, Chloe. He also enjoys aviation history, including a visit to the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum in Oregon to see the Spruce Goose.
As Kerry completes his term, the Board expresses its gratitude for his service, participation and steady leadership. His contributions have been valued, and we wish him well as he continues his personal and professional pursuits.
Thank you, Kerry, for your years of service to the Naples Airport Authority!
Want to Learn More About the NAA Board of Commissioners?
Did you know that the Naples Airport Authority has no shareholders and receives no local government funding or guarantees? All operating revenues are generated by business activities conducted by the Authority to provide a safe, efficient and financially sustainable airport that best serves the overall interests of the community.
The Board of Commissioners, whose members are appointed by the Naples City Council, governs the Naples Airport Authority. Learn more at flynaples.com/board-of-commissioners.