We are always eager to grow through embracing new connections and opportunities!
Originally known as Professional Tour Guide Association of San Antonio (PTGASA), the roots of San Antonio Guild of Professional Tour Guides (SA Guild) trace back to 1992, when downtown business leaders and local tour guides began meeting informally. United by their passion for the city, they shared a common goal: helping visitors experience San Antonio’s history with accuracy, enthusiasm, and authenticity.
In 1994, this group—then called The Tourism Roundtable—formalized its efforts, laying the groundwork for what would become the first professional tour guide association in Texas. Together, these founding members established the high standards that continue to define the organization today. To earn the designation of Certified Professional Guide (CPG), members complete a comprehensive certification program focused on historical accuracy, ethical standards, and presentation skills, culminating in a final exam. SA Guild upholds these standards through ongoing professional development, including monthly meetings and exclusive familiarization trips.
The organization’s impact extends well beyond its membership. SA Guild gives back to the community by participating in events that support local organizations. Members also serve throughout the city as volunteer docents and ambassadors at leading cultural sites, including the Alamo and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to cultivate excellence for professional tour guides to best represent the vibrant cultures and rich heritage of our region.
Vision
We envision every tour guide having the knowledge, skills, support, and desire to excel in their craft. By 2030, we will:
Have diverse membership representing the many facets of tourism, reflecting growing relevance.
Provide access to training and education that hone skills to positively impact guest experience.
Build relationships within relevant professional sectors and beyond to support and connect guides.
Have a respected voice that can advocate for tour guides and their clients.
Board Members
President: Brent Salter
Vice President: Theresa Scheets
Treasurer: Jeff Sattler
Membership Secretary: Terry Sandera
Recording Secretary: Janice Izquierdo
Partnership Secretary: Scott Anderson
Meetings
SA Guild has monthly membership meetings, usually occurring on the first Tuesday of each month. For more information about joining a meeting, please send us a message.
Keri Belisle
President
Keri has been in the tour business for 35 years. She started out driving tours and now focuses on tour guiding locally as well as to various destinations in southern CA, the California Coast and the Pacific Northwest.
Victor Knarreborg
Vice-President
Victor, a native San Diegan, wants visitors to have a memorable experience of San Diego they cannot get on their own. His tours frequently are the highlight of their visit here. It is his passion and his success since 2011.
Kris Dawson
Secretary
Kris is a volunteer tour guide and docent with the Balboa Park Forever Visitor Center and the Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House. He recently opened his own walking tour and people walking service called I Walk San Diego.
Karen Achtenhagen (CMP)
Treasurer
Anniemarie Ausland
President
