David Siegel's Remarkable Impact on the Timeshare Industry Recognized by ARDA Award

Honoring a Visionary in Timeshare Development

This week, the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) held its annual conference in Orlando, Florida, where it paid tribute to David Siegel, the founder and Executive Chairman of Westgate Resorts. Siegel was awarded the prestigious ARDA Lifetime Achievement Award, a recognition of his impressive tenure and impactful legacy in shaping the modern timeshare industry.

A Legacy Built Over Four Decades

David Siegel established Westgate Resorts in 1982, starting with a single property set on an orange grove in Kissimmee, Florida. Over the years, he grew Westgate into the largest privately held timeshare company globally. Today, the company boasts more than 13,500 rooms across 22 resorts throughout the United States, making it one of the most significant resort developers in the country.

In reflecting on his career, Siegel expressed his lifelong commitment to the industry, stating, "For the last 43 years of my life I have lived and breathed the industry as both a developer and as a timeshare owner. I believe in the power of vacations to bring happiness to families, which is why I have dedicated my life to this industry.” He also took a moment to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of his team, sharing this recognition with all Westgate Resorts employees.

Siegel’s contributions extend beyond business; he has received multiple accolades throughout his career, including an honorary doctorate from Florida A&M University and the ACE Philanthropy Award from ARDA, demonstrating his dual focus on professional achievement and philanthropic initiatives.

Philanthropic Endeavors

David's philanthropy traces back to a personal tragedy; the loss of his 18-year-old daughter, Victoria, prompted him to advocate for spreading awareness and solutions for the addiction crisis. He played an integral role in lobbying Congress to pass the CARA Act, aimed at funding critical resources, including naloxone, a lifesaving medication for opioid overdoses. Additionally, he successfully petitioned for June 6 to be marked as National Naloxone Day, which sees buildings illuminated in purple to honor victims of the drug epidemic.

Siegel's commitment to service also includes offering complimentary vacations to service members and their families, helping to meet the needs of veterans.

A Vision for the Future

During the award presentation, Jason Gamel, ARDA’s President and CEO, underscored Siegel’s impact, saying, “David is a visionary of the timeshare industry. His relentless drive has shaped the industry we know today.” Indeed, throughout his career, Westgate Resorts has generated billions in vacation ownership sales, driven by Siegel’s philosophy that luxury should be accessible to everyone.

As Westgate Resorts continues expanding, recent announcements include the acquisition of Vacation Ownership Sales from VI Resorts, enhancing their footprint in the industry with over 44 new destinations. Moreover, guests can look forward to two new attractions set to open this summer: the River Country Water Park at Westgate River Ranch Resort, and the Mystery Funhouse Arcade Experience at Westgate Town Center, both in Florida.

A Family Legacy

Siegel’s family provides strong support as well; he is a proud father of 13 children and holds a special bond with his grandchildren. His wife, Jacqueline, speaking on behalf of the Siegel family, expressed pride in David and acknowledged their collective contributions to establishing Westgate Resorts and the enduring timeshare industry.

David Siegel’s recognition by ARDA highlights the positive impact of his dedication to innovation in hospitality and philanthropy. His journey reflects how personal motivations can lead to meaningful change in both business practices and community efforts. For more information on Westgate Resorts, visit westgateresorts.com.