Destinations International, a global resource for destination organisations and convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs), has announced its 2023 award recipients. The awardees will be honoured in Dallas during the association’s Annual Convention. “These leaders have made tremendous contributions to our industry and their respective destinations,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International. “These visionaries have been responsible for the evolution of our industry and have had a profound impact on its healthy future.”
Spirit of Hospitality Award
Too Fly Foundation The Spirit of Hospitality Award is presented annually to individuals and organisations that show exceptional dedication and commitment to the travel and tourism industry. This year’s awardee is Too Fly Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit that serves the community by providing passports, travel grants, and educational experiences for students in under-resourced communities.
Hall of Fame
The Hall of Fame recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of the industry and shaped travel marketing and management: Industry Contributor: Victor Hugo Green and Alma Green, creators and editors of The Green Book Development Era: Dan Mobley, former president and CEO, Louisiana Travel Promotion Association Modern Era:
- Joseph McGrath, CDME, former president and CEO, VisitPittsburgh
- Steve Moore, former president and CEO, Visit Phoenix
- William “Bill” Hanbury, former president and CEO, Bermuda Tourism Authority
Destination Organisation Leadership Award
The Destination Organization Leadership Award recognises individuals who have made a significant impact on the destination organization industry as well as a profound difference in their communities: Less than $1m: Melyssa Reeves, CDME, president & CEO, Visit Vacaville $1-3m: Alana Cooper, president and CEO, Discover Monroe-West Monroe $3-10m: Kyle Edmiston, CDME, president and CEO, Visit Lake Charles $10m and above: Jorge Pesquera, CDME, president and CEO, Discover The Palm Beaches
H2 Destination Organization Award for Global Impact
Destination Greater Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada The Destination Organization Award for Global Impact was recently created to recognise destination organisations that have made a significant impact on the global destination industry.
